Various tests can achieve multiple objectives when testing wind test systems, components, or systems.
R&D Test Systems has gained unique experience and system insight by developing demanding, large-scale test systems for the wind industry. Our extensive track record allows us to assist you in determining the best type of test for your Device Under Test, ranging from testing of significant components and entire nacelles to full-scale testing of rotor blades.
The portfolio of large-scale test systems developed and delivered by R&D Test Systems has included a diverse range of large and internationally renowned wind industry companies. We have the most references in the world as suppliers of wind industry test benches for drive train components and nacelles.
Wind energy advancements
- Broader blades
Ten years ago, the rotor blade measured 30 to 40 meters (about 5 feet) from tip to vertex. Today’s blades are double that length, according to John Hensley, vice president of research at ACP.
According to Hensley, the blade span now equals the wingspan of a typical passenger plane, which is 140 meters (460 feet) from tip to tip. The greater the radius of the rotor blades, the more wind that can enter, and thus the more significant the torque required to power the electrical generators.
And the size of the turbine’s blades, as well as its height, will only grow in the coming years.
- Higher Buildings
Storm turbines and their towers are simply growing in size and height. The Haliade X offshore wind turbine from GE Renewable Energy will produce 12 MW, 13 MW, or 14 MW d, depending on the model. A prototype is being built in the harbour Rotterdam, The Netherlands, unveiled in 2020. It is roughly one-third the size of the largest wind turbine currently in operation.
Its rotor has a turning diameter of 220 meters, longer than two American football fields. The new towers will be 248 meters tall, far outstripping the reach of today’s tallest wind turbines. Because of foundation construction constraints, they are currently limited to heights of about 100 meters.
- Increased Energy Production
Increased production capacity is achieved by using larger turbine blades and taller turbines. In comparison, a decade ago, the average turbine could produce 1.5 megawatts of power. Since then, they have grown in size, with GE’s Haliade X now being the largest. Many are, however, much smaller—the average nameplate of newly installed land-based wind turbines in the United States.
- On-site assembly
Larger blades may twirl in the air, but Hensley claims they cause transportation issues on the ground. Because of their size and shape, specialized or specialized trucking routes, permit applications, and the necessary vehicles, equipment, and technician com are moving through the night on highways and interstates; the massive machinery can cause traffic bottlenecks. The idea is to make the blades easier to ship by making them in different shapes that can be fitted later.
Conclusion
As technology evolves, new advancements will be made in various forms. All you need to do as an engineer is what your firm needs.
