The general public’s consumption of alternative fuels is growing including wind energy, which has been used since 2000 BC and is one of the greatest sources of safe and clean energy. Wind farms are fast developing and are created for the purpose of generating large amounts of electric power.
However, due to the height, complex design and vast exposed surface of wind turbines, they are extremely vulnerable to lightning strikes. Hence, DEHN Africa recommends that protection against direct lightning strikes and transient overvoltage is critical in order to avoid the tremendous financial damage associated with the majority of lightning strikes to wind turbines and the resulting surges.
The main objective when protecting wind turbines is to avoid lightning damage, particularly to the rotor blades, bearings and electrical systems, as this is important for the longevity of the turbines. Solutions such as coordinated lightning and surge protection for power supply components, can help to safeguard and ultimately increase the life span of the wind turbines. The following systems must be protected:
• rotor winding of the generator and supply line to the inverter;
• stator side of the generator;
• voltage supply (230/400 V) for control and switchgear cabinets;
• transformers (400/690 V), inverters, mains filters and measurement equipment;
• and the aircraft warning light.
