Wind Energy Technical Information
The blades are automatically controlled to optimise aerodynamic performance under different operating conditions. This ability improves efficiency compared to fixed-blade turbines. The pitch feature can also be used to act as a brake by feathering the blades out of the wind and, in hurricane force winds, this same feature can be used to assist survival. This technology in normally reserved for large wind turbines.
Build Quality
The C&F turbine is designed and manufactured to withstand the most severe operating conditions. Most components are made from high strength alloys and all critical items such as the bearings, shafts, blades and chassis are designed to withstand winds of over 160 mph. In addition, galvanising and powder paint coatings are employed to withstand the harsh environmental conditions that are commonly encountered.
The generator is a novel design not commonly encountered in wind turbine applications. It is an axial flux, permanent magnet, air-cooled, multi-plate generator which was developed in-house by C&F. Although costly to manufacture, this type of generator affords significant advantages. No core is used in the coil so that, over time, magnet leakage cannot adversely affect the turbine performance. The coils are individually encapsulated, which affords significant protection form the elements and from the ingress of debris. The axial configuration allows a modular construction which enables the user to segregate the output for different independent electrical loads.
Wind Direction Sensor (Yaw Actuator)
A wind direction vane is monitored by the turbine microprocessor which then activates the yaw motor to align the turbine into the wind. This feature, universally employed on large turbines, improves performance and energy yield.
Our blades are manufactured from aerospace type composite materials which are stronger than steel. The CF6/11 turbines use carbon fibre reinforced polypropylene while the larger machines use glass fibre reinforced vinyl ester.
A mechanical brake is employed as a failsafe back-up to the blade pitch brake. This is an essential safety feature universally employed on large turbines and it acts in such a way that the brake automatically engages should a fault be detected. The brake is also an important asset when servicing the turbine.
Skins
The skins are made from acrylic capped ABS. This material is strong and rugged. In addition, it is very resistant to colour fade as a result of UV exposure.
All C&F turbines employ a monopole mast which can withstand hurricane force winds. The mast is erected using a hydraulic ram which greatly simplifies servicing.
Controller/GSM
C&F have developed their own microcessor to control their range of turbines. The microprocessor is GSM enabled allowing the machine to be remotely monitored and controlled over the internet or even by mobile phone. Thus, all C&F turbines are continually monitored from our technical HQ. This enables us to rapidly respond to any fault and, in the event of an extreme weather forecast, we can remotely shut the turbine down. IN addition, we can gather performance data for each individual turbine which can be accessed by the customer via web browser.
Inverter
C&F employ an Aurora inverter. This inverter affords a significant advantage over many competitors in that the generator load can be continually varied to optimise performance at different wind conditions.
