Demands on modern turbines – How to meet gearbox performance needs
The wind energy sector continuously works to make electricity production more efficient. We are seeing a rise in offshore installations as well as in areas with low winds. The challenge: designing wind turbine components that can withstand these harsh conditions.
Optimal protection – How industrial seals can enhance wind turbine reliability
Despite being one of the less noticeable wind turbine features, industrial seals are vital for protecting critical components. They act as the first line of defense against external conditions and contamination while keeping the lubricant in the bearing housing. In this article, the Wind Farm Management Blog will explain the role of seals in turbines.
Only the best will do – What do performance-based contracts offer wind energy?
When a failure occurs in a wind turbine, maintenance tasks can be costly and take time to complete. But what if there was a way to proactively assess costs, risks, opportunities, and benefits to positively impact the levelized cost of energy (LCOE)? Performance-based contracts for operation and maintenance could usher in a new era of reliability in wind energy.
All shook up – Managing vibration in wind turbines
Vibration is normal in most rotating machinery. However, vibration can be detrimental to component health or performance if left to reach abnormal levels and is usually an early indicator of machine failure. What causes problematic vibration levels and how can wind farm operators protect against this?
Carburization or black oxidization? – Analyzing leading methods for strengthening bearings
Bearings are key components for machinery reliability. Therefore, they need to be robust, especially in critical applications such as main shafts and gearboxes for wind turbines. Various methods for enhancing the durability of these components are often discussed. In this article, we compare carburized non-coated with black oxide through hardened bearings.
Core assessment – SKF supports NREL wind turbine drivetrain failure investigations
Premature drivetrain failures are a common cause of wind turbine downtime. However, the cause of these failures is not always clear. SKF is supporting the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to conduct a study that could provide the wind energy sector with vital insights into drivetrain defects.
Reborn in the USA – Video: Remanufacturing bearings at a US facility
Bearing remanufacturing centers help wind farm operators to extend the service life of their components in a cost- and time-effective manner. The Wind Farm Management Blog previously explained how bearings for wind turbines are remanufactured. This time, we provide a look inside one of SKF’s facilities in the USA, showing key aspects of the remanufacturing process in a video.
Make bearings go further – Wind energy could benefit from remanufacturing bearings
When a bearing approaches the end of its service life, it may seem logical to replace it with a new one. This has been the attitude in the wind energy sector for many years. But things might be about to change as remanufacturing bearings offers organizations the chance to become more competitive and boost uptime.
The world of bearings – What bearings do wind turbines use?
Bearings are responsible for ensuring wind turbines keep on turning. They are active in numerous parts of machinery and play different roles. Therefore, there is a wide variety in every turbine. What are some of the key bearings and how are they used?
