Integration

Integrating the WinDrive into the wind turbine drive train couldn't be simpler. The device slots into place after the wind rotor and the main gearbox. The WinDrive output is coupled with a synchronous generator that is in turn connected directly to the power grid.

Advantages, benefits

• High power feed-in quality:
  The synchronous generator can generate electricity that matches the quality of conventional power plants, thereby guaranteeing control of reactive power and grid stabilization.
  
• High reliability:
  The omission of the frequency converter and step-up transformers minimizes the wind turbine's complexity. The frequency of malfunctions and downtimes are reduced, considerably increasing availability.
  
• High efficiency:
  The speed of the wind rotor varies with differing wind speeds. As the WinDrive is designed for variable-speed operation, the optimum aerodynamic position for the wind rotor is always maintained. The synchronous generator works at medium voltage level, which reduces losses due to transformers and cables.
  
  
• Less maintenance:
  Synchronous generators without slip rings reduce the complexity of wind turbines, and therefore the servicing required. The WinDrive has response times in the millisecond range, thereby producing a considerable load reduction in the drive train during dynamic load conditions in the drive. The service life of assemblies that conduct power is increased.

Applications

WinDrive technology can be applied in almost any situation. On and offshore locations, connections to weak energy grids or installation in rough conditions pose no problems for the WinDrive.

References

The WinDrive is currently operating reliably in wind power plants in Germany, Argentina and U.S.A. The WinDrive's potential has also been recognized by Chinese wind turbine manufacturers and there are plans to incorporate it into an offshore wind farm.