Distributed generation geartrain for megawatt turbines
Purpose
The contractor, Clipper/ Dehlsen Associates, will develop a solution to the exponentially increasing torque and gearbox costs characteristic of increasing turbine diameters. (Project 4.5)
Potential benefit
Reduced gearbox cost, weight, installation requirements and warranty risk. Together with controller under development, will increase power capture similar to that of a rectifier-based variable speed system.
Scope of work
Engineer, construct and test a commercially viable gearbox that reduces gear tooth stress by splitting the torque path at the low speed end of the gearbox between small, parallel gearboxes and generators.
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