How to Monitor Wind Turbine Systems
Wind turbines provide a clean alternative energy supply. Wind turbine systems link the movement of blades to an electricity generator that transfers power from the wind through power lines (i.e., the electric grid). Wind turbines are strategically placed in isolated windy landscapes. Computer controllers placed within each turbine monitor the equipment and send data back to a central operator to prevent operation failure or safety problems.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
Wind Turbine Monitoring Systems
-
1
Determine the amount of power being generated. The controller measures voltage, current, frequency, temperatures inside the generator and wind speed. Power is calculated from measured voltage multiplied by measured current resulting in wattage provided by turbines.
-
2
Determine safe operating processes. The controller also provides information to identify operational malfunctions. The controller signals when the generator overheats, power cables get twisted, hydraulic pressure drops, electric motors overheat, or when hydraulic pumps, valves and brake circuits malfunction. Any one of these problems signals operational problems that may lead to shut down of the turbines.
-
-
3
Constantly check the relationship between wind speed and power production. Large wind turbines are suitable for operation in winds up to 30 meters/second (m/s). Turbines should be shut off if the controller shows too much power being produced in low wind or too little power produced in high wind until on-site checks can be made.
-
4
Change blade pitch during high wind speed events. The controller provides information on wind speeds and can manipulate the blades to change pitch during high speed events to prevent the gears from overheating. Flattening blade pitch causes aerodynamic stall, slowing down blade movement and saving the gears.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Turbines must be turned off during hurricanes, tornadoes and other intense weather events.
