NEWS

The replacement of a major component on a Vestas V90 turbine at the Trebitz wind farm in Saxony-Anhalt has been successfully completed! A defective 6.5-ton transformer first had to be removed from the turbine’s long nacelle and lowered to the ground by crane. At the same time, the new transformer was lifted into the nacelle and installed behind the gearbox, filling the available space. The entire operation was a logistical challenge due to the unusual transformer and the very limited space inside the nacelle.

We had to bridge a distance of approximately 107 metres with the crane (105 m hub height). Optimal weather conditions are essential for an operation of this kind, and in this case, we only had a very small window of opportunity. Precision was therefore crucial! Five WindNOW! service technicians were involved in the operation.

The special feature of this project: We had to source a transformer with a 33 kV voltage level from Spain. This type of major component replacement is rather rare, as transformers usually only have a 22 kV voltage level.

Following transportation, the installation was carried out both mechanically and electrically. Before the rotors can start turning again, all connections have to be checked and the transformer must undergo electrical testing. The turbine will only be put back into operation once all tests have been successfully completed.

The old transformer will be sent for material recycling, as an extensive refurbishment would not have been economically viable.

Many thanks to our contractual partner European Energy for placing their trust in us with this complex project.

Interested in our maintenance services, including major component replacements? We would be happy to talk to you in person at WindEnergy in Hamburg from 22–25 September at our stand A1.129.