Acceleration measurements on rotor blades of wind turbines
When it comes to carrying out acceleration measurements on the rotor blades of wind turbines, there tends to be one major difficulty: the vibrations that occur have to be recorded and transmitted to a system for evaluation. However, due to the high voltages and currents that are present, electrical sensors cannot provide reliable data.
The problem with acceleration measurements on rotor blades of wind turbines
When it comes to generating electrical energy, wind turbines have to assert themselves against the established and funded methods in tough competition. The greatest challenge is therefore to record as few losses as possible when generating energy using wind power.
The main role in overcoming this problem is played by the design of the rotor blades. The goal is therefore a design that ensures that as few vortices as possible are created. Because they create a braking effect. Such vortex formation can be detected by acceleration measurements on rotor blades. Because these begin to oscillate when a vortex is formed. With the measured data, further losses can be reduced.
The solution using MICRONOR
A fiber optic measuring system is ideal for carrying out acceleration measurements on rotor blades reliably and unaffected by the disruptive factors that occur. With such a measuring system, the measuring head sticks to the rotor blade, while the fiber optic cable runs along it to the hub. The controller with the laser source and the associated evaluation electronics are then located on the hub. With these acceleration measurements on the rotor blades, data is determined that can be used to optimize the blade shape. In addition, you can adjust the position of the rotor blade to different wind conditions.
The heart of the measurement is a MEMS with a reflective surface. An incoming light beam is directed onto the reflecting surface via a prism in such a way that the reflected light beam is coupled into the returning fiber with the greatest possible intensity. If an external acceleration occurs, the mirror changes its axis. This deflects the reflected light beam. The light intensity measured in the evaluation electronics thus decreases. The decrease in light intensity is proportional to the external acceleration.
Products for measuring acceleration on rotor blades of wind turbines
We at MICRONOR offer systems to reliably carry out acceleration measurements on rotor blades. With our single or multi-axis fiber optic accelerometer systems, you can measure vibration and motion in high voltage environments such as wind turbines.
Our MR660 controller is available in different versions for one, two or three axes. They work where electronic or electromechanical sensors fail. We offer suitable sensors for this: the round 1-axis sensor MR661 and the square sensors MR662 with one axis as well as MR663 with two axes and MR664 with three axes.
Conclusion
Acceleration measurements on rotor blades of wind turbines, like many other problems, can be overcome with the special solutions from MICRONOR. Do you also have a special problem? Then feel free to contact us.
You can ask for more information at info@garmasl.com or if you prefer by phone (34+)943291102
