Companies that insure wind turbines would like to influence the trends here. For instance, they suggest, get more than one quote for a repair job and don’t feel obligated to accept the one from the OEM. Other industries consider one quote inadequate. What’s more, ISPs might react faster to an offline turbine than would an OEM.…

Slip rings provide a reliable transmission of power or signals from stationary cables in the nacelle to rotating equipment in the hub. A basic slip-ring assembly uses solid metal rings and graphite or precious-metal wire brushes, which contact the outside diameter of the rotating metal ring. As the ring turns, electrical current or signal conducts through…

Connecticut-based United Technologies had previously owned 49.9% of the stock in Clipper Windpower and apparently has purchased all remaining shares. “Its acquisition by UTC creates the long-term financial stability necessary for Clipper’s continued growth, while enabling Clipper to fully leverage UTC’s management capabilities, operational expertise, and world-class technology in blades, turbines, and gearbox design,” read…

Getting 10-MW from a wind turbine will take a permanent-magnet generator with four independent sections, a gearbox lighter than those on smaller turbines, a 150-m diameter rotor, and more. A 10 MW offshore turbine is in the works that addresses the growing demand for reliable and efficient offshore wind energy. Over its lifetime, each Britannia…