INDUSTRY FOCUS Renewable Energy
Braking solutions for airborne wind energy systems
A
irborne Wind Energy Systems (AWES) are one of the latest and most promising technologies
to produce electricity from renewable resources. They use tethered aircrafts, or other flying objects, to harvest high-altitude winds that blow at heights above 300m from the ground. By exploiting the fast, persistent and less turbulent speeds of high-altitude winds, AWES can generate power at unprecedented levels. Flying a tethered device across the wind produces power outputs up to three times greater than comparably- sized existing wind systems in similar conditions. Further to their impressive outputs, these innovative wind energy converters also benefit from compact, lightweight and highly adaptive designs that considerably reduce the financial, environmental and noise impact of generating power.
When deployed on floating offshore platforms in deeper waters, AWES do not require solid foundation or much ballasting to restrict movement as they operate in tension. As a result, they can be used in locations where sea depths reach several hundred meters. They can also be located at sea level and easily accessed by boats.
Innovative solutions Recently, an AWES developer needed suitable braking systems for its products, and contacted Altra Renewables, a division of Altra Industrial Motion. The
32 April 2021 | Automation
company was looking for an innovative braking system with an extremely compact footprint that could operate without an external power supply. This would allow the energy converters to maximise the benefits offered in terms of cost, environmental impact and flexibility. In addition, it was crucial for the components to be able to withstand harsh offshore operating conditions. A solution was developed based on
Stromag’s CB90-R ultra energy rotor brakes – active, hydraulically-actuated systems for high-energy braking installations, designed to fit into limited spaces.
The brakes are operated by similarly small hydraulic power units (HPUs) from Svendborg Brakes, allowing the entire system to fit into the AWES body. When braking, the callipers squeeze their pads against brake discs made of stainless steel. While uncommon for conventional braking applications, this material would allow the setup to operate effectively and for long periods of time in offshore environments.
Pioneering power generation Thanks to this brake design, the AWES developer produced a setup that uses 90% less material than conventional wind converters, such as wind turbines, while doubling the amount of energy produced. Extremely happy with the results, the company has since adopted the Altra Renewables solution into its product range as standard. “Initially impressed by our existing
When AWES developer was looking for braking systems that would meet the unique, specific requirements of its applications, Altra Renewables offered an ideal solution
portfolio, the customer has reported its satisfaction in our ability to design and deliver fully-customised solutions, as well as offering continuous assistance throughout the R&D stages of the project. We look forward to further developing our relationship with the customer in future and collaborating on innovations in this exciting new renewables sector,” said Tilman Speer, International Sales Manager/Business Development Manager at Svendborg Brakes. As a result of this successful collaboration and the resulting interest received for these braking systems, Altra Renewables has added them to its product portfolio to support the fast- growing AWES segment. Businesses in this field can therefore benefit from proven, bespoke, high-quality braking systems as well as comprehensive post- sales services. “There is no question that there is a huge demand for special-purpose drivetrains to drive the renewable energy sector forward. Our brand has a longstanding leading position in the wind energy market as a specialist provider of robust and effective braking systems. These latest solutions further attest to our commitment to support businesses in this field with key products and services,” added Speer.
CONTACT:
Altra Industrial Motion
www.altramotion.com
automationmagazine.co.uk
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