In t HALT test, the anemometer is mounted to a shaker stand and vibrated while three ducts blast the unit with high-speed air.
Cup anemometers can lock solid if the icing conditions are right. But a recent non-cup design from Lufft Ventus showed it can withstand extreme vibration, corrosion, heat, and extreme ice conditions. You might think the so-called HALT test is intended to destroy a wind sensor because it pushes that unit to limits of heat, cold, vibration, and corrosion. One Ventus unit survived the punishing test that includes temperatures exposures from -95 to 95°C along with maximum vibration and corrosion portions. Manufacturer Lufft says it has plans to improve the sensor so it tolerates -120 to 120°C.
This particular wind sensor uses ultrasonics which work well in most extreme conditions. The HALT test is unusual in that it exposes a device to extreme corrosion while vibration, heat, and cold is produced in a special wind tunnel that generates high velocity wind towards the sensor simultaneously in three vector directions.
The wind sensor is intended for turbine control anemometry. Resistance to ice is possible with a 240W heater, and resistance to corrosion comes from a heavy duty anodized aluminum alloy. IP65 will assure the sensor resists water intrusion in the strongest storms and offshore environments. The company’s rugged wind sensor comes in several flexible communication options including current or voltage. Each sensor is configurable with free software by Lufft. A copy of the HALT test report is available by request from Lufft.
High survivability is critical for wind sensors installed on today’s large and small wind turbines. Labor cost is high so project owners cannot afford wind-sensor relate down time. View the Ventus video at: http://www.lufftusa.com/video/ventus1.html
Lufft
Filed Under: News, Sensors
