Wind projects in developing countries
Wind energy potential in a number of developing and emerging countries could be substantial. A recent U.N. wind study of countries from China to...
Bolting applications, part 1
It is never a pretty sight to see a wind turbine collapse. Whether it is material fatigue, defective parts, or severe weather that play...
Next-generation wind turbines will be smarter, more efficient, and more reliable than ever before
According to Wikipedia, innovation is a change in the thought process for doing something, or the useful application of new inventions or discoveries. It...
Achieving successful repowering projects
Renewable energy is certainly living up to its name. To provide greater wind production and lower operational costs, wind farm “repowering” is emerging as...
Remote monitoring allows Q&M professionals to check turbine conditions in real time
Turbine manufacturers typically offer a turbine availability guarantee during warranty at 97 percent, and well-maintained projects with the right technology can achieve levels higher...
Focusing on wind turbine controls
As wind turbines continue to grow in size, reports such as the “DOE 20% Wind by 2030” capture the advantages of larger and more...
Having an emergency logistics plan for replacement components
When you fall ill or have a medical emergency, you know whom to call. It is the same with wind power maintenance issues. When...
Controlling offshore supply chain costs
Wind farm management, especially offshore, is a matter of economy: generate greater amounts of energy per area, and reduce the cost per megawatt. However,...
A vibrant and valuable aftermarket
In a post-warranty environment, owners and operators who seek to reduce O&M costs through parts management must begin with an understanding of the cost...
Accurate computer-based design programs are crucial for high system reliability
Wind manufacturers continue to pursue the design and development of larger machines with larger, lighter, and more-efficient rotors. Along with growth in machine size,...
Remote Condition Management
The Moventas CMaS (condition management system) is a remote monitoring system for wind turbine gears. It recognizes possible damages in gears and other mechanical...
Constructing Cable Confidence
The winds of change have definitely been blowing at Consulting Engineers Group (CEG). A wholly owned subsidiary of Dakota Electric Association that provides high-quality,...
The Hidden Costs of Ownership
The purchase of a wind turbine is obviously a major financial commitment, not simply in terms of the cost of purchasing and erecting the...
The technology and concept behind soil mixing
Soil mixing techniques are used to mechanically blend soils in place with cementitious material to improve the soil engineering properties such as strength and...
Turbine reliability a crucial part of success
As the U.S. wind industry begins a trend of increased post-warranty operations, owners are taking aim at turbine reliability as a critical aspect in...
A look at turbine noise
As the industry continues to grow and develop and with wind turbines continuing to be deployed across the nation, the likelihood of wind farms...
Harnessing the power of offshore wind
Offshore energy production is gaining traction as consumption of electricity from conventional sources declines and renewable sources continue to grow. Countries and companies alike...
The Future of Wind Turbine Diagnostics
Wind energy is undergoing expansion, and it is bound to grow to a commercial/consumer level in the decades to come. This growth has materialized...
Compaction grouting has multiple advantages
When the site of a planned wind tower is underlain by sufficiently dense granular soils, a mat foundation can be designed to safely support...
Transporting components can affect long-term profitability
The owner of a newly commissioned wind project can generally expect a full return of their investment over 20 years. After all, despite the...