Application example: wind turbine deflection monitoring

Wind turbines will increasingly undergo deflection as wind speeds increase. This is normal, and the tower, rotor and blades can sustain these forces without harm, up to a certain limit. Above this limit, the turbine has to be fixated (i.e. shut down) in order to prevent excessive strain on the rotor, damage to the tower and blades, and dangerous situations.

The deflection amplitude at the top of the tower can be measured using a DIS Sensors accelerometer, giving a reliable indication of the severity of the wind forces.

With an accelerometer sensor  mounted in the turbine nacelle atop the tower, the deflection amplitude can be measured in one, or two directions simultaneously. Based on the measured accelerations, the control unit can take appropriate action.

For functional safety a SIL2/PLd model is also available.

Sensor:                        QG40 or QG656 acceleration sensor
Specific:                      2-axis or optional omnidirectional, optional SIL2/PLd