Novel operational condition monitoring techniques for wind turbine brake systems

摘要

In the event of important component failure or during high wind speeds, it is crucial for wind turbines to stop operating. A failure in braking systems may result in loss of the whole structure. This thesis addresses the problem of automatic detection and diagnosis of faults within wind turbine brake systems. The aim is to develop a cost effective and non-intrusive condition monitoring solution for brake systems. This can then be used to either enhance safety or reduce costs to maintain current levels of safety.ududThe use of an induction motor as a sensor to identify faults within the hydraulic unit of the brake system has been explored. The braking event was also used as an input to analysis which identified faults within blade systems. The use and further development of appropriate fault detection and diagnosis methods within electrical machines using several detailed case studies to monitor the condition of wind turbine brake systems has been demonstrated.ududIn conclusion, it is shown that the results of the analyses of laboratory and field trial experiments with the proposed approaches and simulations have the potential to develop a comprehensive commercialised condition monitoring application for wind turbine brakes.