Testing wind turbines and the accompanying technology is imperative before deployment in order to avoid the discovery of errors during operation, according to GE.
The manufacturer said delays can be avoided by simulating the worst-case conditions using test benches before turbines are deployed.
“It also reduces time to market, as you don’t have to wait for the right wind and weather conditions to carry out testing, allowing for simulations in a controlled environment,” GE said.
Grid simulation can also be carried out to ensure a turbine’s ‘fault ride through’ capability works as predicted. This will help ensure a product can operate under the weakest grid conditions, minimizing lost revenue.
GE’s Power Conversion business has developed wind test systems that are capable of testing nacelle units before delivery.
Stress testing individual components, such as gearboxes, generators and converters, is also carried out, as well as simulating issues that may be encountered during cabling and installation.
GE said companies, including Eon, are using its test bench systems, while its turnkey contract with the Lindoe Offshore Renewables Center (LORC) in Denmark can test wind turbine nacelles with an output power of up to 10MW.
Image: GE turbines (GE)
