Detailed lightning analysis can be an effective input to asset management systems to optimize the inspection intervals for wind-turbine blades, as well as appraise damage requiring immediate attention. This can result in performance improvements by reducing turbine downtime and increasing availability. This has particularly important implications as wind turbines become larger and are located in…
Preparing turbines for lightning strikes
By Michelle Froese, Senior editor Windpower Engineering & Development The average energy released in a lightning strike is 55 kWh. Understandably, most wind owners and operators breathe a sigh of relief when a major storm passes their wind farm without damage to a turbine. However, measurements have shown that lightning strikes may hold more power…
New managed switch line gives machine & automation networks higher-level capabilities
Phoenix Contact’s new FL SWITCH 2000 line bridges the gap between simple unmanaged switches and complex managed devices. The switches in the 2000 line feature easy configuration, remote monitoring, and advanced communications options at an affordable price point. As machine networks become more complex, unmanaged switches do not offer higher-level features to meet new…
Phoenix Contact Innovation Ventures invests in wind IoT firm, Windesco
Phoenix Contact Innovation Ventures, the venture capital company of the Phoenix Contact Group, completed an investment in Windesco Inc. Windesco, based in Boston, is a hardware/software and Internet of Things (IoT) provider for wind-power industry. The company uses proprietary algorithms to optimize asset performance and extend life, providing a unique value proposition to wind-farm owners.…
Photoblog: AWEA Windpower 2014, Day One
Windpower 2014 attendees: Read the most recent windpower news on the Windpower Engineering and Development homepage, check our Twitter (@windpower_eng) for updates from the show floor, and each day watch out for a new photoblog!
Phoenix Contact’s web-based service means easier remote support, reduced travel costs for machine builders, OEMs, & system integrators
Phoenix Contact introduces a free web-based service that lets FL mGuard users securely communicate with and support industrial equipment over the Internet. The mSC uses award-winning FL mGuard hardware to give OEMs, machine builders, and system integrators a secure, easy, and cost-effective way to access machines and systems anywhere in the world over the Internet.…
Save time and money with simple wireless cable replacement
The new Radioline wireless platform from Phoenix Contact offers wire replacement for simple I/O and serial communication. With software-free radio setup, Radioline offers a cost-effective wireless solution where it is too costly or not possible to run a wire. Radioline features simple I/O to I/O communication without the need for programming software. More advanced configurations,…