Wind turbines
Wind turbines are innovative systems that use wind energy to create electricity. These tall structures have large rotor blades attached to a central nacelle. While they offer eco-friendly benefits by generating clean power, they also face challenges like maintenance costs and potential dangers from ice buildup on the blades and nacelle.
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In colder regions like Northern Europe, where wind power plants are becoming more prevalent, ice formation on turbines occurs when cold water droplets interact with their surfaces due to clouds and fog.
By taking preventive measures, the risk of ice build-up can be significantly reduced. This not only improves turbine performance but also saves money on maintenance and repairs, all while minimizing the impact on the environment nearby.
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Fig.1. Influence of icing on rotor blades and power loss
Icing on rotor blades and nacelle
When icing occurs, the following three effects apply to wind turbines:
Reduction in power generation efficiency
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Ice on the rotor blades changes aerodynamic characteristics and reduces the amount of power production compared to the absence of ice - even at the same temperature and wind speed.
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The amount of power production decreases as the ice grows.
Ice throw
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As the ice on the rotor blades increases, it can be spread around the blades as the blades rotate.
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There is a risk of damage to the wind turbine, awork, local environment and infrastructure.
Error measurement by meteorological observation equipment
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For example, when ice occurs on an anemometer, the value recorded will be lower than the actual wind speed.
Costs, safety and environment
Wind turbines, prominent in the renewable energy sector, stand as symbols of our commitment to a sustainable future. However, the deployment and maintenance of these colossal structures come with challenges, particularly in regions where cold climates present risks associated with ice and snow. Examining these challenges—ranging from costs and safety to environmental impact and the potential hazard of ice throw—provides a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding wind energy systems.
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Cost Implications
The economic considerations throughout a wind turbine's lifecycle are significant. Maintenance costs are a critical aspect of wind farm operations and tend to escalate in icy conditions. The necessity for advanced anti-icing and de-icing systems, routine inspections, and repairs following ice-related damage substantially contributes to overall operational expenses. Additionally, potential reductions in energy production due to ice accumulation introduce an economic dimension that affects the return on investment for wind farm operators.
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The Hazards of Ice Throw
The potential for ice to be thrown across considerable distances poses risks to surrounding ecosystems, agriculture, and infrastructure. The hazards associated with ice throw necessitate comprehensive risk assessments and mitigation measures to safeguard not only human life but also the broader environment.
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Safety Concerns
Safety remains a paramount concern in the renewable energy sector. Ice throw occurs when ice detaches from rotating blades and is projected outward, posing a considerable risk to personnel, infrastructure, equipment, wildlife, and the nearby environment. Establishing safe setback distances and enforcing stringent safety protocols are crucial in mitigating the risks associated with ice throw, further contributing to operational costs.
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Environmental Impact
While wind energy is celebrated for its environmental benefits, particularly in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, its impact extends beyond the operational phase. The manufacturing, installation, and eventual decommissioning of turbines involve resource extraction, production, and waste generation. Striking a balance between the positive environmental contributions of clean energy generation and the ecological footprint of wind turbines throughout their lifecycle is essential for a comprehensive assessment of their sustainability.
The effect of ice accumulation on the rotor blades
Source: Larry Wunsch of Brownsville, Wis
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Before treatment with Hirec
After treatment with Hirec
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The analysis lasted a total of 4343.5 hours, and the internal icing period was 357.5 hours - about 8.2% of the time - before applying Hirec.
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328.8 hours - about 7.6% of the time - after the application of Hirec.
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The power loss due to ice was 61.6 MWh, which accounts for approximately 9.7% of the total power production of 516.6 MWh - before applying Hirec.
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The loss due to ice was 39.0 MWh, which is approximately 4.7% of the total power production of 736.8 MWh - after application of Hirec.
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In this comparison, it must be added that "shutdown" during application amounted to 5.6% - 10MWh.
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Although pure comparison is difficult because the same wind turbine was not observed in the same period, the improvement in power production before and after treatment of the rotor blades is considered significant.
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Superhydrophobic coatings have been shown to significantly reduce losses in power generation due to ice formation.
Proactive solution - Hirec
Utilizing cutting-edge technology is essential for ensuring effective and reliable protection against ice and snow accumulation on wind turbine rotor blades, particularly in cold climates. A promising approach involves the proactive application of superhydrophobic coatings to mitigate risks, reduce costs, enhance safety, and minimize environmental impact. Hirec has proven to be an exceptional preventive measure in preventing the formation and accumulation of ice, snow, and rain.
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Cost Reduction and Efficiency Enhancement
Designed to repel water, ice, and snow, Hirec offers a proactive strategy to counteract the economic and safety-related uncertainties associated with ice-related challenges in wind power production. By applying this technology to turbine blades and nacelles, ice formation is significantly reduced. This not only decreases the need for complex anti-icing systems but also minimizes downtime and maintenance costs related to wear, repairs, and component replacements. The inherent water-repellent properties of Hirec help maintain optimal aerodynamics, ensuring blade efficiency and maximizing energy output.
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Enhanced Safety Measures
The proactive use of Hirec plays a crucial role in strengthening safety protocols for wind turbines. By preventing or significantly reducing ice accumulation on rotor blades, the risk of ice throw is drastically minimized. This approach aligns with the industry's stringent safety standards and enables more flexible turbine placement in areas where safety concerns might otherwise impose restrictions.
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Environmental Sustainability
Sustainability is a key consideration in the pursuit of renewable energy. Hirec provides an environmentally friendly solution by reducing reliance on traditional anti-icing systems and eliminating the risks associated with hazardous ice shedding in sensitive environments. The use of Hirec helps lower the ecological footprint associated with the lifecycle of wind turbines, aligning with broader goals of reducing environmental impact. As a result, the positive environmental contribution of wind energy is further reinforced.
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Comparative Analysis
A comparison of risks, costs, safety, and environmental impact between traditional anti-icing methods—or the absence of such systems—against the benefits of Hirec reveals a transformative shift in wind power production. While the initial investment in this technology may involve upfront costs, the long-term savings and efficiency gains outweigh the expenses compared to conventional anti-icing methods.
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This innovative solution represents a significant advancement in addressing cold-climate challenges in wind energy, ultimately supporting the industry's goals of efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
More information about ice throw
The challenges and expenses related to ice, snow, and rain are highlighted by organizations like NVE (Norwegian Water and Energy Directorate) and GE Energy. You can find and access the full reports by following the provided links. If you're interested in learning more about how Hirec is used in wind power production and the tests and analyses conducted, you can download additional information using the links below or get in touch with us directly.
NVE - Ice trow wind turbines - 2018 (NO)