Direct Drive Wind Turbines

Within the last year, utility-scale installations of wind turbines have changed from 1.5 megawatts to 2.5 megawatts, so that each standard tower now generates enough electricity for 240 more homes than was possible in 2008. However, the 2.5-megawatt turbines still have traditional gearing mechanisms, and wind industry innovators want to evolve from standard gearbox systems to the simplicity of direct drives. The industry is trying to scale up the technology, to cut costs and improve reliability, so now experts are considering a future of direct drive wind turbines. This means replacing traditional gearboxes and high-speed generators with bigger low-speed generators that don't require geared transmission. Siemens, one of world leaders in wind machine makers, plan to take a new direct drive design that will significantly reduce the weight of the generator, allowing them to be used effectively both onshore and offshore. Siemens also promise that their direct drive system will be more efficient and generate electricity even in low wind conditions often found inland.

For more information on Direct Drive Wind Turbines talk to KTR U.K. Ltd