The wind yaw system is a key component of wind turbines, mainly used to adjust the direction of the wind turbine to align with the wind direction, thereby maximizing the capture of wind energy. The following are the environmental requirements for its use:
1、 Meteorological conditions
Wind speed requirements
Generally speaking, the yaw system starts working when the wind speed exceeds about 3-4m/s. This is because when the wind speed is low, the energy captured by the wind turbine is limited, and frequent yaw movements may consume more energy and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the equipment.
The upper limit of its working wind speed is usually lower than the cut-out wind speed of the wind turbine. For example, for most ordinary wind turbines, the cut-out wind speed is around 20-25m/s. The yaw system still needs to ensure normal operation when approaching the cut-out wind speed to ensure that the wind turbine is aligned with the wind direction as much as possible. However, at high wind speeds, its yaw action may be limited by the control system to ensure the safety of the turbine. In extreme wind speeds (such as exceeding the safe wind speed), the yaw system may be locked to prevent damage to the wind turbine due to excessive wind force.
Wind direction requirements
The yaw system needs to be able to adapt to changes in wind direction in all directions. The range of wind direction variation is usually 0 ° -360 °. It should be able to accurately perceive small changes in wind direction, for example, the accuracy of wind direction change angle is generally required to be within ± 5 °, in order to adjust the direction of the wind turbine in a timely manner.
For areas with frequent changes in wind direction, such as coastal areas or mountainous areas with complex terrain, the dynamic response performance of the yaw system is required to be higher. It needs to be able to quickly and accurately track the rapid changes in wind direction, avoiding a decrease in power generation efficiency caused by the inability of the wind turbine to effectively align with the wind direction due to changes in wind direction.
Temperature and humidity requirements
In terms of temperature, the yaw system generally needs to operate normally in an ambient temperature of -40 ℃ -50 ℃. In low-temperature environments, the viscosity of lubricating oil increases, which may affect the lubrication effect of yaw gears and bearings, leading to increased friction and even freezing of certain components. For example, in extremely cold regions, special design is required for the lubrication system of the yaw system, such as using lubricating oil and heating devices with good low-temperature performance to ensure its normal operation.
In high-temperature environments, the heat dissipation of equipment becomes an important issue. Electrical components such as yaw motors may experience overheating and damage during prolonged high-temperature operation. Meanwhile, excessively high temperatures may cause aging of sealing materials, affecting the sealing performance of the system. The influence of humidity on the yaw system is mainly reflected in the corrosion of equipment. When the humidity is high, especially in salt spray environments such as the seaside, the metal components in the yaw system are prone to electrochemical corrosion. Therefore, it is required that the shell and key components of the yaw system have good anti-corrosion performance, such as using anti-corrosion coatings, stainless steel and other materials.
2、 Geographical conditions
Terrain requirements
The terrain of the installation site should be as flat as possible. If there is a large slope on the site, it will affect the verticality of the wind turbine, which in turn will affect the operation of the yaw system. For example, when the unit tilts, the yaw system generates additional torque when adjusting the direction of the wind turbine, increasing the load on the yaw motor, reducing yaw accuracy, and even potentially causing yaw system failure.
For complex terrains such as mountains, the airflow in the wind field is complex, and the changes in wind direction and speed are uncertain. In this case, a detailed assessment of the micro terrain and airflow of the wind farm is required, and a reasonable layout of wind turbines is needed. Additionally, the yaw system may require more advanced control algorithms to adapt to complex wind direction changes.
Geological conditions requirements
The foundation for installing the yaw system must have sufficient strength and stability. Good geological conditions can provide solid support for wind turbines, avoiding the impact of foundation settlement or vibration on the normal operation of the yaw system. For example, on soft soil foundations, it is necessary to reinforce the foundation by using methods such as pile foundations to ensure that the yaw system does not deviate due to foundation deformation during the operation of the unit.
3、 Electromagnetic environment requirements
Anti-interference ability
The yaw system is subject to electromagnetic interference from external sources during operation. For example, nearby high-voltage transmission lines, communication base stations, and other equipment can generate electromagnetic fields. The electrical control part of the yaw system should have good resistance to electromagnetic interference and usually meet relevant electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards. The control circuit generally adopts measures such as shielded cables and filtering devices to reduce the impact of electromagnetic interference on signal transmission and control command execution.
Self electromagnetic radiation limitation
At the same time, the yaw system itself also generates electromagnetic radiation, but its radiation intensity should be controlled within the specified range. This is to avoid adverse effects on surrounding electronic devices, communication systems, and human health. For example, in areas with strict electromagnetic radiation restrictions, such as wind farms near residential areas, it is necessary to perform electromagnetic radiation detection and control on the yaw system.