New power supply from PULS UK improves efficiency and reliability of wind turbines

Sept. 23, 2011 - PRLog -- Super-capacitors (electrical double-layer capacitors) are rapidly replacing the lead acid batteries previously used to drive the powerful motors controlling the giant turbine blades.

PULS’s PAS395 delivers a high-charging current - a two-Farad capacitor will be fully charged in five minutes – and the unit’s high efficiency means that very little heat is generated. Once charging is complete the charger automatically switches to Energy Saving Mode to reduce power losses. The PAS395 can operate in ambient temperatures of between -40°C to +65°C and at an altitude of up to 6,000 metres, making it suitable for all climatic conditions and locations. Remote monitoring and control are standard features.

The PAS395 weighs in at only 2.3kg and measures 310 x 154 x 80mm. It can be mounted in any orientation to allow easy installation even in confined areas.

Pitch control systems are housed within the spinner of the turbine and revolve at around 30 cycles per minute, so using conventional lead acid batteries presents a risk of acid spillage and poor reliability. Switching to super- capacitors improves efficiency, extends service life and consequentially reduces maintenance costs.

PULS’s Managing Director Harry Moore said, “The demand for clean energy and more efficient ways of producing it is increasing across the globe. Using super-capacitors rather than batteries to control turbine pitch is a major step forward for the wind power industry and the PSA395 will play an important role in improving efficiency and reliability.”