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Wind turbines are built to withstand harsh weather conditions, but extreme elements like high winds, heavy rain, and lightning can pose serious risks. Excessively strong winds may bend or break rotor blades, compromise the turbine’s structural integrity, or force an automatic shutdown to prevent damage. Meanwhile, torrential rains increase the risk of electrical short circuits, potentially harming critical components, while lightning strikes can severely impact turbine blades, towers, and control systems. Without proper safeguards, these environmental challenges can reduce turbine efficiency and lifespan.
Protective Solutions for Wind Turbines
Ensuring wind turbine longevity and efficiency requires a combination of advanced design features and protective systems. A pitch control system helps manage high winds by adjusting blade angles to reduce aerodynamic lift, preventing excessive rotational speeds and mechanical strain. Smaller turbines may also use furling systems, which tilt the blades or the entire turbine away from strong winds. To combat heavy rain, turbines are constructed with waterproof and corrosion-resistant materials, along with secure seals to prevent water ingress in sensitive components. Lightning protection systems (LPS) are also essential, incorporating lightning rods on key points like the rotor hub and tower to safely direct electrical surges to the ground, while surge protection devices shield electrical components from voltage spikes. Together, these solutions ensure wind turbines remain operational and protected against extreme weather conditions.
Pitch Bearing Lubrication System - The Pitch System of a wind turbine adjusts the angle of the rotor blades in relation to the wind to control the rotor's speed and the turbine's power output. The pitch system is a critical component of a wind turbine's design and is essential for its efficiency and safety. The pitch bearings are subjected to heavy loads due to continuous load changes and hence need a regular supply of lubricant. The ANSWRS' Windpro Grease Pump, mounted within the rotor, rotates along with it, adjusting to the constant vibration and centrifugal force delivers the desired quantity of lubricant. It is equipped with a spring loaded follower plate, ensuring grease is always available to the pumping elements, allowing effective suction even during rotation and upside down orientation. The grease is then delivered to the lube points via progressive blocks which ensure a positive metering and predefined dosages being delivered.
Pitch Open Gears Lubrication System - Pitch Open Gears are one of the most important components of the Pitch System as they physically adjust the angle of the rotor blades in Wind Turbines and need to be lubricated properly for accurate adjustments. Lubricant for pitch open gears is delivered by ANSWRS' Windpro pump designed for rotary applications. It is mounted within the rotor, rotates along with it, adjusting to the constant vibration and centrifugal force. It is equipped with a spring loaded follower plate, ensuring grease is always available to the pumping elements, allowing effective suction even during rotation and upside down orientation. The grease is then distributed via progressive blocks and subsequently transferred to open gears through ANSWRS' Windpro lubrication pinions precisely applying grease to the contact areas on the drive pinion or pitch open gear, evenly lubricating the entire cog width.
