In order to ease the operation of our sensors we are always looking for partners offering best solutions. This time Lufft USA presents a new tool called WindBridge™ from the US American Company Nor-Cal Controls Inc. The 2005 founded company focuses on aconsulting, engineering, and training solutions and services to the power generation sector. WindBridge™ is a signal converter that will allow the lufft VENTUS-UMB to communicate with any turbine Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)…
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Nor-Cal Controls Energy Solutions, Inc. is releasing a new product which will reduce costs and maintenance to wind project owners and operators. The WindBridge™ is an innovative smart device configured to allow newer technology sensors to integrate seamlessly into an existing wind turbine control platform, no matter the age, type or communication characteristics of the Controller/ PLC. Nor-Cal Controls partnered with Lufft, manufacturer of the VENTUS ultrasonic wind sensor, to provide a state of the art, turnkey wind sensor replacement solution resistant to the elements as well as time.
The need for a device like this arose from discussions with countless wind turbine operators and owners. Wind sensors are required for each wind turbine installed in order to correctly point the turbine into the wind. The correct alignment not only causes optimal performance of the turbine, but is a safety measure as well.
As the meachnical sensors age, they often need replacing. Not only are such wind sensors prone to repair and replacement, but they also require regular calibrations, costing time and money. Often, owners are not able to choose a sensor appropriate to their installation because of the limitations of communication with the PLC. The WindBridge™ removes these barriers.
Traditional wind sensors can be liable to mechanical break down and require periodic repair and/or replacement. This is due to moving mechanicals parts such in traditional cups and vanes. Mechanical parts that are exposed to the elements can accumulate rust, scale or other substances that can impede movement. In cold climates ice or rime is likely to build up on a sensor causing breakdown or highly inaccurate readings.
The WindBridge™ solution combines the intelligence of a specially configured device with the robustness of the VENTUS wind sensor. The result is a wind sensing system that is a direct replacement to older, end-of-life sensors, providing the end user with a highly accurate, maintenance free system that will exceed previous operable lifetimes of older technology sensors.
Are you interested in a in an integrated solution? Please contact Nor-Cal Controls at nccsales@norcalcontrols.net. Nor-Cal Controls, located in Diamond Springs, CA, is a fast growing company founded in 2005 by Robert Lopez that offers complete automation solutions for the power generation industry.
More information can be found on our VENTUS product webpage or the technical data sheet of WindBridge™.
