Acoustic Vibration Control
Periodically replacing wind turbine components is a significant part of a preventive maintenance programme, helping to improve the turbine’s efficiency and prolong the asset’s lifespan. One of the most crucial components of any wind turbine is the gearbox, which can be susceptible to a variety of risks, in particular excessive vibration and noise.
The risk of vibration
Excessive vibrations can be attributed to an increase in the rotor diameter of wind turbines over the last decade. Spurred by operators’ need to maximise the output of their wind turbines and farms, this change has increased the likelihood of the blades exerting large forces on the gearbox as they rotate. These forces create vibrations, which can lead to structural fatigue, gearbox damage and even catastrophic wind turbine failure. Left untreated, the financial risk is significant, especially as the vibrations can compromise wind energy conversion and overall performance.
The most effective way to counter this risk is to regulate and monitor vibrations by installing acoustic vibration controls in the wind turbine gearbox. Acoustic vibration controls are mounted to the gearbox and connected to a control cabinet, which monitors vibrations in real time and dampens them to protect the gearbox and minimise wear and tear.
For operators striving to build greater certainty into their operations and reduce downtime, acoustic vibration control is a highly practical and cost-effective approach.
Acoustic masking
Wind farm operators must also consider acoustic masking to minimise the possibility of vibrations becoming sound.
While the noise output from wind turbines no longer presents the same issue for operators as a decade ago, they must still be mindful of the risks of excessive noise and how it might impact local communities and wildlife.
Acoustic masking controls provide the means to control excessive noise with real-time monitoring. The technology adds ambient noise via a subwoofer to mask any excessive mechanical noise from the wind turbine. While adding noise to reduce noise seems counter-intuitive, it is a scientifically proven and highly effective method to reduce overall noise levels.
Of course, the reasons for excessive noise must also be considered, as this might reveal broader maintenance or component replacement issues.
By proactively addressing vibration control and acoustic management together, wind farm operators can minimise component damage, reduce the likelihood of noise and improve the overall energy output of their farms.
Trusted expertise
At AIS Wind Energy, we provide the expertise and resources operators need to minimise operational risk and optimise wind farm performance. One of the ways we do this is through retrofitting and replacing major wind turbine components, as well as scheduled wind turbine maintenance and servicing.
Both of these services improve efficiency, address wear and tear issues and prolong the lifespan of the wind turbine asset. They are carried out by our fully certified and highly experienced wind energy operatives. Our team always carries out rigorous planning with method statement and risk assessments, ensures a safe system of work (SSoW) and adheres to Wind Turbine Safety Rules (WTSRs).
For help with vibration and acoustic management for your onshore wind farm, contact us.
