Fighting against the current – Protecting bearings from electrical erosion
Electrical erosion is a common cause of bearing failure – something that can lead to complications for wind farm operators, such as downtime or reduced productivity. However, there is a cost-effective solution to this. SKF collaborated with a wind turbine generator manufacturer to resolve the issue.
Up to the test? – New test center for wind turbine main bearings
In order for a wind turbine bearing to be as effective and durable as possible, it must be tested thoroughly. This is not always an easy task, with few facilities having the capabilities to put large-size bearings through their paces. SKF recently built and opened the world’s most powerful test center for this purpose.
Bearing remanufacturing – Reducing costs by refurbishing old bearings
Not all old parts have to be replaced. SKF bearing remanufacturing services can extend service life – so you can reduce lifecycle costs and environmental impact.
Black oxide bearings – Improve wind turbine reliability and performance
Operation and maintenance (O&M) costs can constitute up to 25% of a turbine’s levelized energy cost over its lifetime. Technology that helps reduce maintenance and downtime is therefore crucial. In the previous article of this two-part series, we examined four of the most common bearing failure modes. This time, we will look at black oxidation – an effective solution to improve operational reliability.
White etching cracks examined – Facing the challenge of premature bearing failure
White etching cracks are a symptom of bearing failure. SKF researchers and application engineers discuss how to tackle the challenges and reduce the risk of this failure mode.
Bearing reliability – Top 4 bearing failure modes in wind turbine gearboxes
The reliability of bearings has a profound impact on wind turbine operating costs. But as the parts are often subjected to a wide variety of operating conditions, they may fail when they are pushed beyond their limits. In fact, in the past, as many as 80 percent of wind gearbox failures were caused by faulty bearings. Here are the top four main failure modes.
Smooth running – SKF lubrication solutions for the wind energy industry
Whether onshore or offshore, in a desert or on a mountain, wind turbines are exposed to harsh conditions. Around the world, SKF lubrication solutions help operators to improve system reliability. Discover the benefits.
A second wind for old parts – Remanufacture the bearing; keep the turbine whirring
Bearings are among the most essential components in wind turbines. If a fault occurs in a turbine bearing, it could result in significant financial losses for everyone involved in the wind power supply chain. A major breakdown could cause widespread disruption, affecting the energy supply of a large organization – or even an entire region. Keeping these parts performing efficiently and reliably is therefore of utmost importance.
Maintaining control – 7 tips for wind turbine maintenance
Servicing wind turbines can be a complex task where many factors could lead to failures. Each machine is made up of thousands of components requiring care and observation to make sure that they operate effectively. Carsten Andersen, CEO of the Danish Wind Power Academy, provides seven tips to enable reliable and effective wind turbine maintenance.
