Fire at wind power plant

Can a wind turbine cause a fire?

might be difficult or impossible to reach at some times and depend on the availability of crane/service ships, like offshore wind turbines. A fire in a wind turbine can lead to the situation, that burning elements, which fall down, can cause a secondary fire on the ground where the tower is located.

Are wind turbines protected from fire?

However, even though it is easy to equip the technology, not all of these parts are protected from fire risk. Fire incidents on wind turbines are, thankfully, not common. The probability of wind turbine fire ranges between one in 2,000 to one in 7,000. However, the overriding point should be that it is a possibility threatening turbines every year.

How common is fire in wind turbines?

The study shows that 10-30% of all incidents in wind turbines that lead to a halt in production are due to fire. This is true for both on- and offshore wind turbines. According to data from the Caithness Windfarm Information Forum, the number of incidents annually ranged between 120 and 160 for the years 2007-2012.

How do wind turbines increase fire safety?

Passive methods, such as those used in the turbine's design or construction or the facility's administration, can increase fire safety inside the nacelle . Wind turbine fires are a reality in wind farms worldwide and represent severe damages for the wind industry. Fire is the second most common accident caused in terms of incidents found.

What is the risk of fire in a wind turbine nacelle?

in the electric power substation of the wind turbine or the wind farm. Today, in most new wind turbines, are placed in the nacelle. Thus, the risk of fire increases significantly there. Due to the high density of technical equipment and combustible material in the nacelle, fire can spread rapidly.

Which parts of a wind turbine are flammable?

Furthermore, there are flammable liquids in various parts of the nacelle, including the gear box, hydraulic system, oil pumps, mechanical brake, and generator. Both active and passive fire protection systems play an important role in ensuring fire safety in wind turbines.