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Ultracapacitors backup more wind turbines

By Kathie Zipp | August 24, 2010

An estimated 60% of new wind turbines now employ electrical blade pitch systems that incorporate ultracapacitors or batteries for pitch control and backup power. Ultracapacitors offer burst power for control systems that enhance the consistency of wind turbines’ electrical energy output. The constant adjustment of the turbine blades compensates for changes in wind velocity and ensures that rotor speed remains within a safe operating range . Also, in the event of a main system power failure, ultracapacitors offer an independent source of backup power for orderly shutdown and smooth the flow of wind farms’ output to the electric utility grid.

Ultracapacitors have been incorporated into an increasing share of the electric pitch system market because of their longer operating lifetime, low maintenance requirements, and cold weather performance compared with batteries. Furthermore, manufacturer Maxwell Technologies states that the company’s Boostcap ultracapacitor products are functional at temperatures ranging from -40 to 65 C.

About 38 GW of new wind generator capacity was installed in 2009, bringing the total worldwide installed base to nearly 160 GW.  From 2005 through 2009, the industry maintained an annual growth rate of more than 30%, and it is projected to continue growing strongly.

Maxwell Technologies
www.maxwell.com

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Tagged With: maxwell technologies, ultracapacitors back up more wind turbines
 

About The Author

Kathie Zipp

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