Large wind turbines equipped with "smart" sensors

In a wind turbine, part of the kinetic energy generated by the wind is converted into electrical energy and fed into a closed power grid. The useful kinetic energy of the wind increases with the increase in wind speed.

Thus, wind turbines use kinetic energy to create torque and, consequently, rotational motion. The rotor, usually consisting of three blades, generates kinetic energy and transfers it to the generator, which produces electrical current from it.

In the vast majority of wind turbines, adjustable gearboxes are used, which match the wind-dependent rotor speed with the constant speed of the generator inside the housing called the nacelle. While the rotor rotates slowly with very high torque, the torque of the fast-spinning generator is quite low.

The required adjustment range between both torques determines the overall size of the gearbox. The efficiency of the wind turbine gearbox is very high. Since the transmitted output power is extremely high, energy losses are also high.

This mainly concerns thermal losses, so the gearbox needs to be cooled. This is achieved through complex gearbox lubrication technology. This process requires measurements of oil pressure and temperature. Oil pressure is monitored by transducers. KELLER was able to provide several series 21Y pressure transducers to a client who supplies these gearboxes for wind turbines.

Have questions or need consultation on selecting equipment for your production? Contact the specialists at «Izmerkon» — we will help find the optimal solution for your tasks.