Wear of collector ring of wind turbine generator

What is a generator collector ring?

These rings are specialized types of electrical slip rings used primarily for transferring power and electrical signals from a stationary to a rotating structure, hence forming an integral part of the power generation apparatus. A generator collector ring is essentially a rotating metal ring that is connected to the spinning rotor of a generator.

What is a wind turbine slip ring?

So a wind turbine slip ring can be provided with a single contact material that will handle high power as well as data communication channels. The primary advantage of the fiber brush design is that 100 million revolutions can be achieved in wind turbine blade pitch applications with no maintenance.

Do wind turbine slip rings cause arcing?

Historically wind turbine slip rings have been constructed with carbon-based brushes using standard industrial grade materials, and wear debris generation has been a problem causing arcing or short circuits in the power section and high contact noise in the signal section.

What is a collector ring?

Collector rings reside at the heart of power transmission within a generator system. This seemingly simple interface bears the full onus for the delivery of generated power to its intended destination without interruption. They allow the circuit between the rotor and the stator to be completed, thereby accommodating continuous electricity flow.

Which contact system is best for wind turbine power and signal transfer?

Moog highlights three (3) commonly used contact systems that solve these requirements for wind turbine power and signal transfer: (1) carbon / metal brushes, (2) fiber brushes and (3) monofilament (single) metal brushes. Each offers distinct advantages and disadvantages, dependent upon your wind turbine characteristics.

Can MD&A make new collector rings?

From older styles of collector or slip rings known as ring and shell to the various latest designs. MD&A can manufacture new Collector Rings for your generator. Our skilled and knowledgeable craftsmen and engineers reuse the inner shell and perform a full replacement of all other components. MD&A also performs Collector Ring Machining.