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Title: Wind turbine drivetrains: state-of-the-art technologies and future development trends

Journal Article · · Wind Energy Science (Online)

Abstract. This paper presents the state-of-the-art technologies and development trends of wind turbine drivetrains – the system that converts kinetic energy of the wind to electrical energy – in different stages of their life cycle: design, manufacturing, installation, operation, lifetime extension, decommissioning and recycling. Offshore development and digitalization are also a focal point in this study. Drivetrain in this context includes the whole power conversion system: main bearing, shafts, gearbox, generator and power converter. The main aim of this article is to review the drivetrain technology development as well as to identify future challenges and research gaps. The main challenges in drivetrain research identified in this paper include drivetrain dynamic responses in large or floating turbines, aerodynamic and farm control effects, use of rare-earth material in generators, improving reliability through prognostics, and use of advances in digitalization. These challenges illustrate the multidisciplinary aspect of wind turbine drivetrains, which emphasizes the need for more interdisciplinary research and collaboration.

Research Organization:
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), Golden, CO (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
Grant/Contract Number:
AC36-08GO28308
OSTI ID:
1845909
Alternate ID(s):
OSTI ID: 1855591
Report Number(s):
NREL/JA-5000-82406
Journal Information:
Wind Energy Science (Online), Journal Name: Wind Energy Science (Online) Vol. 7 Journal Issue: 1; ISSN 2366-7451
Publisher:
Copernicus GmbHCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
Germany
Language:
English

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