Power Supply for Wind Energy Equipment

May 11, 2011 2:40 PM

Balluff introduces a new, intelligent, energy-saving power supply especially for use in wind energy equipment. The semi-potted device with an efficiency rating of 93% is designed for high shock and vibration loads and an extremely long service life of nearly 20 years with a MTBF of 800,000 hours. A key feature: this is the first power supply which can be connected directly to the generator voltage without need for an intermediate transformer. Also completely unique are the optical indicators which display the status and condition of the unit. Since it tracks dynamic loads, it can be operated continuously even under high load conditions. This makes reserves of from 30 to 50% no longer needed.

Special sensors in combination with a microcontroller continuously monitor wear factors in the power supply such as temperature, overload, faults and other conditions. Intelligent evaluation of these parameters then gives the user an overview of the status of the unit for implementing maintenance measures, thereby drastically reducing the probability of failure of the overall system. Colored LEDs in traffic light colors provide the user with continuous information about the current load level, the "stress level" as well as the life time, a forecast of remaining life expectancy. The indicators are bright enough to be reliably seen and interpreted from several meters away.

For the first time ever the usual 3-phase transformer used in wind power equipment can be dispensed with, thereby saving money. Thanks to its broad input range of 380 - 690 V the switched-mode power supply can be connected directly to the generator voltage of the wind turbine. The positive effects: installation effort, and reduced number of failure-prone parts along with increased efficiency of the system due to less heat loss.

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