The following part of a recent analysis shows if the replacement of mechanical wind sensors trough ultrasonic anemometers in wind turbine control pays off…
The following part of a recent analysis shows if the replacement of mechanical wind sensors trough ultrasonic anemometers in wind turbine control pays off…
Mechanical vs. ultrasonic anemometers for wind turbine control
Anemometers are vital components of utility-scale wind turbines. These wind sensors measure wind speed and direction at the site of a given turbine, which determines the performance of the turbine’s output. A standard wind turbine power curve shows power output (kW) at a range of wind speeds (m/s). Turbines operate in a relatively narrow range of wind speeds, cutting in at around 3 m/s and cutting out at around 25 m/s. The turbine blades will not efficiently turn below the cut-in speed, and wind speeds above the cut-out speed may cause damage to the turbine blades or other components. The anemometer is the sensor that measures wind speed, points the blades into the wind to optimize power output, and signals the turbine to operate or feather its blades.
Mechanical sensors used to measure wind speed can be described as having three hemispheric cups attached to arms on a vertical axis turn in the wind at a speed proportional to wind speed. Wind direction is measured by another type of mechanical sensor a vane anemometer that combines a small horizontally oriented propeller and tail to turn the axis perpendicular to the wind direction and the propeller blades transmit wind direction to the turbine. These two types comprise of moving parts such as ball bearings that are subject to damage at high wind speeds, icing incidents, and typical mechanical ageing due to wear and tear found operating under various weather conditions.
In the market today, companies are transitioning to ultrasonic anemometers. These sensors contain no moving parts and are entirely electric, which reduces the probability of failure with other benefits for O&M providers. Ultrasonic anemometers without hydraulic or mechanical parts are not prone to rust, scale, or other buildup that may impede proper operation. Some ultrasonic sensors are also equipped with heating components that control the internal temperature in icing events, which may occur at hub height. It is imperative that the sensors are kept at a temperature that allows it to operate accurately and maximizes power output of the turbine. Furthermore, ultrasonic anemometers may have both digital or analog outputs directly from the sensor, which can provide direct communication with the turbine’s Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), that monitors and operates each turbine’s electromechanical processes. This direct communication is important for minimizing power loss, reducing replacement costs, identifying turbine maintenance needs, reducing dead band, and help in reducing the writing of code for performing vector averaging by the OEMs or O&Ms.
When is a replacement worthwile?
You will find the answer in the free to download Cost Benefit Analysis! We captured the 5 year cost of different mechanical wind sensors and compared it with the cost of ultrasonic anemometers for wind turbine control!
