China’s Sewind Co., one of its top five wind turbine manufacturers, produces 1.5 to 2 MW turbines.

Moog Industrial Group will provide 400 electric pitch-control systems for China-based Sewind Co. Ltd’s 2-MW wind turbines. The controls will go into on-shore and intertidal models. Sewind Co., one of the top five companies in China’s wind-energy industry, specializes in the design, manufacturing, and sale of large units.

Pitch systems control blade positions on wind-turbine rotors to ensure highest possible power capture and to protect the wind turbine. The pitch-control servodrives used in these systems operate under extreme temperature conditions within switch cabinets in the wind turbine rotor hubs, guaranteeing reliable operation. Moog says its pitch systems withstand extremely high mechanical loads in rotating turbines, while improving turbine operating efficiency.

“With worldwide emphasis on renewable energy sources and building a low-carbon economy, wind turbine operators will be searching for ways to increase wind turbine operation time,” says Moog’s general manager for the Asia Pacific Region Sean Gartland.

Sewind is a joint venture of the Shanghai Electric Group Co. Ltd. and China Huadian Engineering Co. Ltd. Sewind headquarters are in Shanghai with production bases in Shanghai and Tianjin.

Moog Industrial Group

Electric pitch-control systems from Moog adjust the rotor blades for safety and efficiency. The equipment can withstand temperatures from -30 to 70°C (-22 to 158°F) and operate inside a wind turbine's hub.Moog Industrial Group

moog.com/wind

A medium-voltage frequency converter, the ABB PCS 6000 Wind, provides a solution for wind turbine applications that require high power density and high reliability.

A medium-voltage frequency converter, the PCS 6000 Wind, works on wind turbines that require high power density and high reliability.  The 6000-series of liquid-cooled Integrated Gate Commutated Thyristor (IGCT) converters has a reputation for durable and reliable operation under harsh conditions. The PCS 6000 Wind matches well with large-scale wind turbines with the need for a 3 to 8-MVA grid power interconnection. Thanks to the combination of proven components and an innovative technology, the frequency converter has an unmatched reliability and efficiency. Medium-voltage technology results in lower currents, and therefore equipment that needs less space, less cabling, and has lower system losses.

A few of its main characteristics include:

• Medium voltage IGCT technology
• 4-quadrant operation
• Fuseless design
• Water cooling
• Compact and modular design

A few plusses include:

• Designed for high power wind turbines
• High reliability, efficiency, and power density
• Full grid code compliance
• Maximum control of turbine speed and power

The PCS 6000 Wind meets requirements of the multi MW wind turbines with full size converters. The converter has a reliability and efficiency unmatched on the market. Fast and accurate process control in combination with low-energy consumption results in top performance. The IGCT semiconductors are state-of-the-art in medium-voltage technology. This results in a less complex, and efficient and reliable converter that minimizes operating and maintenance costs.

Diagnostic Information Analysis System is the smart tool for supervising the process. In case of a problem, ABB service personnel can provide remote support to local service teams. The power converter control system records important signals and the status of the converter along with a timestamp during a fault. ABB service personnel can use a a built-in transient recorder to remotely analyze recording and give direct guidance to on-site personnel. Substantial benefits come from from proper installation and commissioning of the equipment. Factory testing and inspections, in addition to the traditional operational parameter setting done by ABB’s commissioning engineers, will reduce start up time, increase safety and reliability, and decrease life-cycle costs. In addition, operators can be trained by experienced specialists on site.

Eaton Corporation’s

Low voltage power circuit breakers maintain peak efficiency and reduce the time and costs associated with maintenance. The Series NRX low-voltage-power circuit breaker keeps processes up and running and helps protect equipment in the nacelle. It features broad capabilities, a compact size that allows for easy integration into new and existing structures, and it withstands rugged climate conditions. Innovative features for mounting and tool-less accessories are the result of decades of field experience and testing.

The low voltage power circuit breaker provides capabilities of a power circuit breaker in compact size of a molded case breaker. Series NRX offers continuous current ratings from 800 to 1,600A, and an interrupting capacity up to 65 kiloamperes (kA) at 508 Volts alternating current (Vac), and 42 kA at 690 Vac. Further, its innovative mechanism design drives extended maintenance-free contact life. To keep systems up and running, the Series NRX is tested to 20,000 mechanical operations and 10,000 electrical operations, exceeding third-party standards. It meets Underwriters Laboratories standards UL489 and UL1066, as well as International Electrotechnical Committee (IEC) 60947-2.

High performance Series G molded case circuit breakers provide high performance branch circuit protection for step-up transformers at tower bases and ancillary loads in the nacelle. Third-party tested to global standards, this product line features many safety options including ground fault protection and an Arc Reduction Maintenance System, which reduces arc flash incident energy up to 30%. Engineered for reliable performance over a wide temperature range (-20 to +70°C), additional ranges are possible using factory-modified designs.

The Series G includes thermal magnetic, electronic circuit breakers, and molded case switches. They are rated up to 690 Vac, 15 to 2500A, with an interrupting capacity up to 200 kA at 480 Vac and 65 kA at 600 Vac. The Series G family meets UL489, CSA 22.2 No.5, Conformite Europeenne, and KEMA KEUR standards.

VCP-Wi medium voltage (38 kV) vacuum circuit breakers help manage power reliably, efficiently, and safely. The devices are engineered for wind farm collector substations, as well as industrial and commercial applications, and feature a reduced footprint. Maintenance requirements are minimized with the use of enclosed long-life vacuum interrupters, and the component arrangements allow for easy access. VCP-Wi’s direct roll-in configuration simplifies handling and relocation of the breaker. Eaton’s VCP-Wi medium voltage vacuum circuit breakers are rated up to 38 kV, 2500A (without fan cooling) and 31.5 kA.

XT IEC Vacuum contactors (580 to 2,450 A) meet the evolving needs of small and large wind-power systems. These high-amperage contactors can be used to control the power circuit in standard wind power configurations, including fixed speed, doubly fed, and permanent magnet types. Eaton offers vacuum contactors up to 1,000V that include:

• Highly efficient switching
• Extended life
• Flexible control scheme
• Compact design
• Reduced energy consumption and simplified control wiring

The SL line of medium voltage vacuum contactors improve safety, reliability, and performance, even in dusty or corrosive environments. With ratings from 2,300 to 15,000V and current ratings to 800A, the Eaton SL contactor offers solutions for medium to large wind-power systems. Facilitating installation flexibility, they feature reduced weight and size. The long-lived contactors can minimize maintenance. The SL contactors are rated for 160A through 800A for frame sizes at 7.2 kV, and 250A at 15 kV, and are tested to 300,000 electrical operations. Further, SL medium-voltage contactors offer field adjustable control voltages and drop out times.

SVX9000 adjustable frequency drives are a compact, modular solution to variable-speed applications, and can be configured to specific requirements. They feature a wide voltage range, high overload ability, and a user-friendly alphanumerical keypad. High performance drives for demanding applications, the SVX9000 include:

Increased micro-processing power

• Encoder feedback
• High resolution analog inputs
• Speed and torque loop capability
• Customizable software and ease of operation

Ampgard SC9000 medium voltage adjustable frequency drives combine innovative technology with reliable design and construction. The drives are for use with induction or synchronous motors at 2,400 to 4,160V and up to 5,750 hp. The SC9000 features a small footprint, clean and quite operation, modular roll-in roll-out inverter, a fully integrated drive, and efficient variable-speed operation. Further, the SC9000 requires comparatively little equipment space, does not need external auxiliary power supplies, and has reduced power consumption. It meets UL, Canadian Underwriters Laboratories (cUL), Seismic, IEEE519 standards.

A broad range of sensors are available for applications requiring sophisticated non-contact sensing, rugged mechanically actuated switches or reliable safety products. With application engineers who specialize in the variety of sensing technologies, Eaton can help navigate the product-selection process to fit specific requirements.

Sensors for the wind industry include:

iProx for tough inductive sensing. iProx is a versatile, high performing and economical sensor for applications where high sensing performance and inventory consolidation is an issue. The broad product offering includes more than 100 models in four-wire dc and two-wire ac, different barrel sizes, and a variety of connection options. Standard features include extended sensing ranges, high noise-immunity, extreme durability and it contains an embedded microprocessor that lets it perform unique sensing functions at extended ranges. Further, there are a variety of advanced features that allow for full customization to specific application needs.

VoltageWatch: Where power quality is a concern, this sensor facilitates monitoring supply voltage levels, identifying undervoltage or overvoltage conditions, and helping protect critical motors and electronics. A high-performance, RMS voltage sensor in single and three-phase installations, it provides isolated analog output proportional to rated nominal voltage sinusoidal and nonsinusoidal (variable frequency) situations, and is applicable on nominal circuits of 120, 240 and 480V.

CurrentWatch: A comprehensive family of current sensors, current switches, and ground fault sensors, CurrentWatch sensors are capable of measuring ac and dc current and are for monitoring power use and providing diagnostics for electrically powered equipment. The product offering includes battery bi-directional dc-current sensors, which is designed for renewable energy sources that require advanced battery storage and monitoring systems.

Hydraulic power units. The company offers a comprehensive line of industrial power units, including verticals, horizontal, L’s, overheads, JIC and custom configurations. Eaton standard system products incorporate simple power units, bar manifolds and pump/motor groups, which are configurable with Eaton’s Packaged Systems Configurator (PSC2.0). In addition to engineered standard configurations, Eaton’s Application and Commercial Engineering (ACE) Group can design, manage, and help install custom power units for special applications. Specializing in different applications and requirements for custom systems, Eaton has a network of approved integrators.

Aeroquip brand “MatchMate Global” braided and spiral hydraulic hoses offer:

• Higher working pressure
• Increased temperature ratings
• Superior abrasion resistant covers

State-of-the-art materials and technology let MatchMate Global hoses extend product life and prevent hose failures, typically the result of cover abrasion. Further, the hoses meet and exceed relevant SAE and EN standards.

Pitch control cylinders with integral valves, the Vickers LESA Series TT servo actuator, combines a high performance hydraulic cylinder and a control valve mounting manifold in one convenient package. Advanced, closed-loop motion control comes from the addition of a proportional or servo valve and a precision non-contacting feedback transducer, and appropriate electronic controls.

The LESA series of servo actuators eliminate need for separate hydraulic manifolds, plumbing between control valve and cylinder, transducer mounting brackets, and other complex arrangements. With the option of a cast aluminum cover, a position transducer can be conveniently and safely contained within the cylinder assembly. This lets the LESA Series TT servo actuator work comfortably in harsh environments that can easily damage most electric servo motors with ball screws and other types of actuators.

Incorporated into the design of the pitch control cylinders, Eaton’s Vickers proportional valves have product breadth and width consisting of onboard electronics (OBE) & non-OBE, full functionality, complete sizes, and different performance levels to meet various customer demands. The KB family of proportional valves integrated OBE with superior reliability and durability.

Yaw brake, drive brake and pitch control power units are high-performance, low noise, small packages built for harsh environments. Eaton’s Vickers brand provides quality hydraulic power units and innovative equipment for power and motion control needs with state-of-the-art screw-in cartridge valve technology. Eaton offers a comprehensive range of cartridge valves for the wind industry.

With the spread of Manifold Circuit Design to encompass a variety of hydraulic markets, Eaton incorporates customer specifications and creates a simple and robust manifold. For added flexibility and function, manifolds can be packaged with Eaton’s industrial valve line or a range of other hydraulic products.

The Aurora PVI-7200 W Wind Interface is intended for turbines with a max 7.2 kW output.

The power conversion efficiency rating of the Aurora Wind Interface model PVI-7200 W is 99.4%. It accepts three-phase input from a permanent-magnet generator (PMG) and outputs a max 7,200 W. The inverter has a fused wind input feature and an automatic brake function for the maximum 530 Vdc and an optional external brake resistor is available.
The PVI-7200 W, manufactured by Power-one, accepts an input of 0 to 400 Vac, an operating input voltage from the PMG of 40 to 400 Vac, and 0 to 600 Hz, a max operating input current of 16.6 A RMS, an input over-current (fuse-protected) 20 A RMS, a max out power (at 400 Vac PFC>0.7) of 7,200 W, and an output operating voltage range of 50 to 600 Vdc. Operating ambient temperature of the PVI-7200 W is -25°C to +55°C. It uses a NEMA 4X enclosure and generates and audible noise of less than 40 dBA. The unit complies with various set standards such as UL1741 and CSA C22.2, and N.107.1-01 for grid-connected usage, safety and electromagnetic features. Another inverter is rated for output power of 4 kW.

The Vindicator mounts on a turbine nacelle to measure wind speed and direction about 300 m ahead of the unit. Turbine controls then decide how to use the information.

A recent report shows that a laser wind sensor can increased the energy output of a turbine by an average 12.3% as a result of better alignment with oncoming wind and increased gust detection. The increased energy output comes from the Vindicator LWS, a laser-based wind speed and direction sensor that provided data to turbine controls. The sensor looks up to 300 m ahead of a turbine and signals the controls to turn and face the wind as it arrives. Developer of the sensor, Catch the Wind, Manassas, Virginia (catchthewind.com) says by excluding statistically insufficient measurement data, its unit improved energy output by more than 18%. “Our field trial with Nebraska Power further validated the capabilities of the Vindicator to improve the performance of a turbine through forward measurement of wind speed and direction,” says Catch the Wind CEO Phil Rogers. “By increasing energy output by only 10% per turbine, for example, we believe wind-farm operators can expect to generate a cash flow in excess of $600,000 for a typical 2.5 mega-watt turbine or $18 million for a typical 75-MW wind farm. The incremental cash flows generated during the first 24 to 36 months are sufficient to payback the initial investment.” The company says a technical report on its website details field trial results and an economic valuation model which calculates the financial return of the device.

Catch the Wind and the Nebraska power company agreed to a trial program to evaluate how using forward measurement of wind speed and direction can align wind turbines with the approaching wind and reduce the off-axis stress loads on turbines. A beta production model of the sensor unit was linked into the controls of a working Vestas turbine at the Ainsworth Wind Energy Facility near Ainsworth, Nebraska. WPE

• -40 to 70°C operating temperature

• Rugged DIN-rail enclosure

• ESD and surge protection diodes on all ports

• Redundant power inputs 10 to 49 Vdc

• Configurable bi-color fault-status LED

• Store-and-forward technology

• Onboard temperature sensor

SD memory card configuration backup (optional)

The compact devices meet requirements of wind farms, utilities, including power substations, and industrial process control applications where noise immunity and support for longer distances are essential. Up to 6 fibers ports in a small form factor let users configure fiber rings and fiber uplinks, in a cost-effective way. The 7010TX also supports gigabit fiber.

N-Tron Corp

ntron.com

Accessories for the LED and fluorescent enclosure lights include ganging cables, power cords, and door switches, all provided with easy to use plug-and-play connectors

A family of enclosure lights, including compact LED and fluorescent versions, come in versatile and easy-to-install packages. Panelite LED and Fluorescent Lights, from Pentair Technical Products, Anoka, Minn., are for quick installation in any enclosure. Their efficient design fits easily inside enclosures where space is often a premium. Terminal blocks at both ends of the lights’ housings allow for simple wiring and ganging several together.

The compact Panelite LED Enclosure Light has long-lasting LEDs that work for up to 50,000 hours. There are no bulbs to crack, break, or replace. They operate on 24 Vdc, making them an effective for low voltage and energy efficient applications. LEDs offer a 140° cone angle that casts a broad covering of neutral light within enclosures. The light’s center section also rotates, letting users direct light to where needed. Also, LEDs perform well in harsh environments including cold and vibration. The enclosure lights are UL and CSA certified and available in 15, 18 and 28-in. lengths.

The units are simple to wire and operate. A plug-and-play terminal connection includes pre-wired sockets on both ends of the light allow ganging them in series and for Hoffman Enclosure’s line of easy-to-use cable accessories. What’s more, optional terminals snap into the connection sockets for other wiring methods. Terminals are provided in the kit with each light. The lights also include an on-off switch.

A single phase Wieland switching power supply

A family of UL listed and CSA Certified switching power supplies deliver a control voltage of 24 Vdc at an output of 1.25 to 40 A. Wieland Inc, Burgaw, NC, offers nine models including six single phase and three 3-phase approved worldwide for a temperature range from -25 to 71°C. All models feature short circuit protection and a reliable design.

The six fully enclosed, single-phase units take minimum space on the DIN rail as their width varies from only 1.7 in. (43.5 mm) to 6.9 in. (175 mm).  All single-phase models accept a wide universal input voltage range, allowing one unit to operate in many applications.  Input voltage for three units range from 115 and 230 Vac and 210 to 375 Vdc, for two units from 85 to 264 Vac and 90 to 375 Vdc, and for one unit from 115 and 230 Vac and 120 to 370 Vdc. Output current varies from 1.25 to 20 Adc.

The three fully enclosed, three-phase units measure only 3.5 in. (90 mm) to 10.9 in. (276 mm) wide.  All three-phase models accept a wide universal input range, 400 to 500 Vac and 480 to 820 Vdc. Output current varies from 10 to 40 Adc. Single-phase and three-phase units feature touch-proof screw terminations for input and output wire connections to ensure personnel safety.

The enclosure, rated IP67, protects the encoder’s internal components from dust and liquids. A stainless-steel housing is available as a option.

meets requirements of industries such as wind, steel, crane, and mining machinery. In these applications, the encoder is exposed to extreme mechanical stress, vibrations, shock, and high temperatures.

Sturdy bearings and a rugged enclosure make the encoder useful in all applications with similar demands. The enclosure, rated IP67, protects the encoder’s internal components from dust and liquids. A stainless-steel housing is available as a option.

Different incremental and absolute versions of the 1000 series are available, and of the various encoders can be combined in the same 1000 series product. What’s more, absolute pulse encoders with the Profibus interface can be used in extremely tough industrial environments by using this device. The absolute variants come with interfaces such as SSI, EnDat, CANopen, DeviceNet, or with a parallel output with resolutions up to 25 bit. For more info, reach Tom Wyatt at (847) 884-3713 or twyatt@heidenhain.com.