Lifetime extension: a methodology to extend the lifetime of wind turbines

摘要

Wind turbines and wind farms have infrastructural components (such as transformer, MV electrical cables, electrical substations, access roads) that can last for more than the original 20 years design lifetime of the wind turbine. Lately concrete towers have been increasingly used and are less susceptible to fatigue than steel towers. These components represent a significant share of the capital investment of the wind farm. Extending the operation of the wind farm is therefore a way to Increase the profitability of wind farms.