Tag “testing”

Nestled on the outskirts of Schweinfurt, Germany, the Sven Wingquist Test Center – the winner of an International Architecture Award 2018 – is a sight to behold. But what distinguishes it in terms of its contributions to the wind industry?

Robust bearings are the key to a long-lasting wind turbine. To evaluate their surface and subsurface robustness and minimize failures, SKF has further developed the SKF Generalized Bearing Life Model (GBLM). During the "Bearing World by FVA" conference, the company presented its application of the SKF DuraPro for wind turbine gearboxes.

The demand on wind turbines is increasing. It is the same for the roller bearings that enable their smooth operation. These bearings must withstand ever-higher loads, moments, and harsh conditions, while still increasing efficiency and reliability as demand rises. To help companies meet these challenges, SKF analyzes large-scale roller bearing behavior under extreme and real conditions at the Sven Wingquist Test Center.

With the wind energy industry facing increased competition and decreasing margins, SKF and Boralex have teamed up. Their joint project, called the Wind Turbine Reliability Dashboard, will help predict maintenance requirements and streamline supply chain management, lowering overall operating costs and increasing profitability in the process.

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a global green building certification system. Since 2010, SKF decided to construct all new buildings in compliance with LEED. It has kept its word and was recognized with the gold certification status for the Sven Wingquist Test Center in Schweinfurt, Germany.

A company develops a new wind turbine component; but without a platform to showcase this, it may be difficult to convince interested parties of its advantages. So how can manufacturers display key turbine parts, many of which are massive or only functional within a working turbine, to an audience? The digital era may present yet another solution.

In July 2017, the Sven Wingquist Test Center was opened in Schweinfurt, Germany. The aim of this project was to improve current testing software and standards and to develop more reliable large-size bearings. The facility is up and running and providing the wind power industry with a unique service.

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.

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.