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.
Power potential – What role does power density play in wind turbines?
Wind energy is currently in competition with other electricity sources – both renewable and non-renewable – to establish itself as the world’s leading power source. Only by offering cost-effective, reliable energy will this goal be realized. Increasing power density may give the sector a competitive edge.
What are the chances? – The next step in bearing rating life calculation
Understanding for how long a bearing will be operational is vital for planning wind turbine maintenance and budget allocation. Therefore, this information is key for operators when selecting the right component for their application. Calculations based on statistical models are used to estimate bearing rating life. In this article, the Wind Farm Management Blog analyzes how this process works.
No surprises – The relationship between planning, spare parts, and uptime
At first glance, it would appear vital to stock critical wind turbine components to cover potential breakdowns and minimize downtime. Unfortunately, this isn’t always possible, due to financial constraints or inadequate storage. But what if stockpiling components wasn’t as important as it appeared? Rather, careful maintenance planning and diagnostics may be the deciding factors for consistent uptime.
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.
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.
