Backup electromechanical brake system for the wind turbine

The article presents data on Russian Federation regions with the highest average annual wind speeds and justifies the profitability of using wind power plants in these regions. Negative factors that can be encountered in the operation of wind power equipment in the zone of increased wind loads are considered. The necessity of application of duplicating braking systems in wind power plants is determined. Analytical comparison of existing methods of wind turbines braking is given, their advantages and disadvantages are revealed. The most reliable and efficient type is the electromechanical braking of a wind wheel, which combines the advantages of the considered analogues while lacking their shortcomings. A description of such electromechanical braking system for a vertically axial wind power plant is given using a computer 3D model created in the SolidWorks software package. The kinematic scheme of the braking system is illustrated, it describes the interconnection of the main components of the system: the electric drive, the reducer, the three-jaw brake unit and the brake drum on the wind turbine rotor. In addition, the article describes the suggested scheme and control algorithm for this braking system, based on the constant monitoring of the main components state and keeping it in acceptable operating ranges. The conclusion about the efficiency of the braking system application under consideration at wind power plants is made.