Keeping power converters cool when temperatures rise

摘要

The power converter is one of the most sophisticated parts of a modern megawatt-class wind turbine. Its job is to efficiently manipulate the asynchronous power generated by the wind and synchronize it to the correct magnitude, frequency, and phase required by the electric grid. However, manipulating power on a megawatt scale creates a lot of heat, requiring cooling systems to keep critical power electronics cool enough to work efficiently. In warmer climates, ambient temperatures around converter cabinets frequently reach upwards of 1302F which can shorten electrical component lives. Heat is without a doubt the primary cause of failure for power converter components. Staying on top of regular maintenance and equipment upgrades help avoid excessive downtime, production losses, and overall repair costs.