The future of wind energy – Turbine innovations from Enercon, Vestas, and Nordex
The Enercon E-175 EP5, Vestas V172-7.2 MW, and Nordex N175/6.X are turbines to watch in the coming years, each bringing innovations that enhance performance while cutting costs. Here’s a closer look at what makes them stand out.
Why wind turbines catch fire – A closer look at the risks and prevention measures
Wind turbines are not without their hazards, as demonstrated by the recent fire at the Clements Gap wind farm in South Australia. This incident has brought to light the various factors that can lead to wind turbine fires, sparking discussions on how to mitigate these risks to ensure safer wind turbine operations.
Go big or go home – The incredible power of Dongfang’s 18 MW turbine
Chinese state-owned Dongfang Electric Corporation (DEC) has recently installed an 18 MW offshore wind turbine, claiming it to be the most powerful in the world. This significant installation took place at a coastal wind power test base in Shantou City, Guangdong Province. Here’s what sets this turbine apart from others.
Make maintenance a breeze – Predictive practices for aging turbines
Wind turbines present unique challenges as they age, particularly concerning component wear and inventory needs. In such cases, predictive maintenance provides a lifeline in the form of optimized lifecycles, maintenance schedules, and return on investment of infrastructure. Read how, by leveraging data and advanced technology, operators can maintain a higher degree of confidence in the performance of their fleet.
Sensing the future – Why wind farms should use predictive maintenance
By leveraging IoT devices embedded with sensors, advanced data analytics, machine learning, and other technologies, predictive maintenance is significantly enhancing the wind energy sector. But what exactly prompts the sector’s key stakeholders to adopt predictive maintenance in their operations?
A sustainable investment opportunity – Repowering old wind turbines
As wind technology has advanced, we have seen more efficient turbines and better overall output. But what happens when these turbines age and become less efficient? The answer could lie in wind repowering, a win-win strategy that combines financial viability, efficiency, and sustainability.
Dark armor – Black oxidation for wind turbine bearings
In the relentless pursuit of superior turbine bearing performance and durability, manufacturers are turning to surface treatments. Among the frontrunners is black oxide treatment, a method that has surged in popularity due to its many benefits. Explore this article to learn about the inner workings of black oxidation and its impact on turbine bearings.
The sound of silence – Quiet running bearings
Noise in wind turbines does more than disrupt the environment; it is also perceived as a warning sign of potential issues with the turbine generator. SKF has put a lot of thought into addressing these issues through SKF Quiet Running deep groove ball bearings. But what sets these bearings apart as potentially game-changing?
El Cóndor Pasa – From bird wings to wind turbines?
Imagine soaring high above the Andes, riding the thermals without a flap of your wings for hundreds of miles — this is the daily journey of the Andean condor, the world’s largest flying bird. With wings stretching up to almost four meters, this impressive glider has inspired a significant technological breakthrough in wind energy.
