The development of blade monitoring was hindered by the unavailability
of robust and cost effective measurement and data transmission techniques.
The application of sensors based on optical fibers for measuring strains,
temperatures and loads is increasing rapidly in many branches of industry.
Load measurement systems with optical fibers are expected to offer a
reliable measurement technique for monitoring blade loads, mainly because
the sensors are not sensitive for electro magnetic fields and lightning.
The costs of the sensors and required instrumentation are decreasing,
but still too high. Wireless data communication techniques are already
common practice and can be used for the data transmission between the
rotor and the nacelle. Proper functioning in wind turbines has been
demonstrated.
ECN is participating in several condition monitoring projects
which all have the objective to reduce costs for operation and maintenance
of (offshore) wind turbines and to detect component failures at an early
stage. A new development especially for wind energy applications in
which ECN is involved is the development of a condition monitoring system
for rotor blades in close cooperation with FosWindpower and Knowledge
center WMC.
The developments are focused on three aspects:
- The
reliability, robustness and cost effectiveness of the sensors and instrumentation;
- The
approach with respect to the sensor configuration and integration during
the manufacturing process;
- The
data analysis and presentation of the results
With respect to the cost, it will be difficult to meet the objectives.
The costs of sensors can reduce sufficiently due to larger volumes and
automation of the process. The optical components are a decisive factor.