The modular design of the monitoring solutions allows the individual systems to be combined as needed based on the requirements. Sensors developed specially for use in the wind power industry provide all of the data necessary for processing in a shared evaluation unit. Further expansion is possible at any time. New technologies and wireless sensors enable long-term and efficient maintenance management in new wind turbine generators, while also allowing the efficient retrofitting of existing turbines.
Modular system monitoring for wind power Make your wind turbine generator truly great, take condition monitoring to the next level, and increase efficiency.
The challenge
Wind turbine generators have become a fundamental source of energy in the present day. They are now a mainstay of power supply in many countries. In order to ensure a permanently stable grid, it is necessary to optimally control and monitor these systems at all times. A tailor-made monitoring solution is not only important for safe operation, but also helps to maximize the yield of your system.
The solution
Efficiency redefined
With the comprehensive monitoring solutions from Phoenix Contact, you can achieve optimal annual energy production and extend the service life of your wind turbine generators for the utmost in sustainable operation.
We will be happy to consult with you to find the ideal solution together for the condition monitoring of your wind turbine generators.
Rotor blade monitoring
When dealing with increasingly large rotor diameters, condition monitoring on the rotor blade is a sensitive task. By using the right type of monitoring, system efficiency is increased and important safety functions are implemented to prevent damage to the wind turbine generator. Rotor blades are subjected to extreme environmental conditions and strain. Due to the ever-increasing length of rotor blades, growing demands are placed on monitoring. With Blade Intelligence, the system for modular rotor blade monitoring, Phoenix Contact offers a comprehensive solution for increasing the efficiency of your wind turbine generator.
Find out about the individual solutions for modular rotor blade monitoring:
Optimized system operation through simple, individual adaptation
Specially designed for use in wind turbine generators, our sensors are extremely robust. Even under harsh conditions, the sensors always supply the connected controller with the data required for efficient and safe operation. They are optimally protected against external influences and are designed for the service life of the wind turbine generator. The signals from the connected sensors are acquired by the controller, processed further, and forwarded according to the application.
The Blade Intelligence software was specifically developed for use in wind turbine generators, with the focus on simple setup and user-friendly operation. Thanks to its modular design, the software can be easily adapted for system extensions. This ensures that the user interface always remains the same for the customer – regardless of the individual system configuration.
The solutions are integrated directly into the electrical design or retrofitted in existing wind turbine generators. Both options are possible. The retrofit version consists of a fully configured control cabinet, which is built into the hub and is integrated into the existing controller via the existing interfaces. Optionally, the data can be transmitted directly to the operator via the modem. In the case of new installations, the required hardware, such as the controller and I/O modules, is integrated directly into the pitch control cabinet.
Solution for ice detection
Under certain climatic conditions, ice forms on the rotor blades, which can lead to damage and hazards for the environment. Official regulations therefore require the wind turbine generator to be stopped in the event of icing. Reliable ice detection minimizes downtime. A proven method is to measure the vibration behavior of the rotor blades. Our ice detection system is DNV GL-certified. The system decides whether the wind turbine generator will continue to be operated or will be shut down. The system detects the absence of ice at standstill, so that the wind turbine generator can start up again automatically. The evaluation unit is available as a control cabinet solution or as an integrable system.
Solution for load measurement
The rotor blades are the critical components of a wind turbine generator. They are subjected to high dynamic forces that can cause structural damage. Damage can be detected and repaired at an early stage by continuously monitoring loads and vibrations. Our system measures the behavior under load as well as bending moments using strain gauges on the base of the blade. With the data from the system, load-optimized control is possible, which minimizes the load on the blades. Load spectra reveal changes in the rotor blade structure over the entire service life. The evaluation unit is available as a control cabinet solution or as an integrable system.
Solution for lightning monitoring
Lightning strikes to wind turbine generators cause damage to the rotor blades and result in electronics failures, which are often not detected immediately. Rotor blades are therefore visually inspected for lightning strikes. Our system measures and evaluates lightning strikes in the rotor blades and combines the data with the operating parameters of the wind turbine generator. This improves the decision-making basis for preventive maintenance work and provides information about the blade event history. The evaluation unit is available as a control cabinet solution or as an integrable system.
Solution for structural health monitoring
Extreme dynamic loads cause minor damage, which in extreme cases can lead to the destruction of the rotor blade or the entire wind turbine generator. Early detection and repair of damage prevents failure. Our solution continuously monitors the structural integrity of rotor blades. The system learns the normal behavior of the blades during a teach-in phase. In the future, the structural health monitoring system will detect anomalies at an early stage. A proven alerting system informs the operator when action is necessary, thereby avoiding major repairs and consequential damage. The evaluation unit is available as a control cabinet solution or as an integrable system.
Your advantages
- Increased yield through the maximum availability of wind turbine generators with robust components, even under extreme conditions
- Easy installation in existing systems due to open interfaces
- Optimized maintenance operations and costs through the early detection of damage
- Simplified maintenance with configuration adjustments via remote access
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