Yaw brakes for wind turbines

All four models of Twiflex yaw brakes function as static-holding brakes for keeping the nacelle positioned into the wind.

A full array of caliper designs is available from Twiflex, Ltd. to meet the yaw braking-force requirements of any size wind turbine. All brake models are durable, hydraulically activated, and direct applied. Models T20 and T40 deliver up to 40 kN braking force, feature two-bolt side mounting, and are intended for light to medium-duty applications. Model VCH provides 60 kN, features four-bolt center mounting, and works well in medium-sized turbines. Model VKH generates 118 kN, and is a base mounted caliper for larger, heavy-duty turbines.

There typically are four to five yaw motors per wind turbine. The brakes mount to the back end of the drive motors and are commonly positioned on the underside of the yaw gear ring. Twiflex is a member of the Altra Industrial Motion family of power transmission companies.