Modern wind turbines operate continuously in remote, highly demanding environments, where exceptional reliability is essential and hence why Contrinex is trusted to accurately measure turbine rotation velocity – Find out more at www.tiny.cc/CTX_Wind
Given the remote location of most wind farms, especially offshore wind farms, monitoring systems must be exceptionally reliable, as site attendance is infrequent, whilst turbine manufacturers need to provide engineering support for systems installed around the globe.
Because turbine rotation velocity is a key operating parameter, manufacturers require robust sensing that provides accurate measurement in real-time. Traditional rotary-encoder technology is unsuitable as encoders can be damaged by prolonged exposure to outdoor, often salt-laden, environments. In addition, turbine rotation speeds are relatively low, typically requiring more complex mechanical encoders.
Contrinex’s rugged inductive sensors provide a simple, contactless system that provides fit-and-forget operation with extended maintenance intervals, withstanding harsh exposed conditions, while delivering the required accuracy and reliability.
The design brief called for sensors that were mechanically robust and could withstand prolonged exposure to harsh outdoor conditions including seawater. An industry-standard interface was highly desirable to avoid the need for specialised control systems.
Rugged Full Inox stainless-steel inductive sensors from the Contrinex Extreme range are ideal for this application. Highly reliable and rated to IP68 or IP69K, these units provide a cost-effective alternative to tradition rotary-encoder technology.
A one-piece M18-diameter AISI 304 (V2A) stainless-steel body and vacuum-encapsulated electronics make this device particularly suitable for the hostile environment, and the sensing distance of 10 mm allows fully contactless operation.
Click to find out more at Contrinex's Extreme robust inductive sensors.
A single sensor is mounted in each turbine head, immediately adjacent to the main mounting ring for the blade assembly. As the blades rotate, so does the mounting ring, and the sensor detects the presence of each mounting bolt as it passes the sensing face. The angular spacing of the bolts is known. Measuring the time that elapses between successive signals thus allows the rotation velocity of the blades to be calculated.
The sensor is configured with an industry-standard PNP normally-open interface, and connection to the turbine’s control systems is via an integral M12 connector and PUR-sheathed cable. This allows easy removal and replacement during routine maintenance. The sensor is corrosion-resistant and impervious to water ingress.
Reliability has been excellent. Contrinex inductive sensors deliver a cost-effective solution that satisfies the customer’s requirements for a simple, fit-and-forget system.
Customer benefits:
- Simple sensor system providing contactless operation
- Robust construction withstands corrosion and water ingress
- Exceptionally reliable, fit-and-forget operation in a remote, harsh environment
Product advantages:
- One-piece AISI 304 (V2A) stainless-steel body
- State-of-the-art ASIC technology ensures exceptional in-service reliability
- 10 mm sensing range available in a physically small sensor
- Excellent resistance to extreme operating conditions
Find out more at www.tiny.cc/CTX_Wind, or to discuss how I can help reduce price and cost on sensors, please connect via LinkedIn, or email me at [email protected].
