The function tester will incorporate GE’s drivetrain, grid simulation, control systems and foundation work. It is comprised of medium-voltage switchgear, transformers, inverter system DDPM (direct drive permanent magnet) motor, HMI (human-machine interface) and foundation.
GE will carry out the installation, commissioning and remote service for the project. The medium-voltage inverter system is a further development of GE’s existing MV7000 series and is one of the most compact medium-voltage inverters on the market. The MV7000 is based on tried-and-tested GE technology using dynamic control properties and low grid interference.
The new nacelle tester will enable LORC to test the functionality and performance of wind turbine nacelles by using a specially designed adapter that enables the turbine hub and all field operational software and hardware—including pitch control—to be included in the test.
It will open up a wide range of opportunities to test wind turbine controllers inside the nacelle, using highly realistic test conditions at 33 kV level, which is unique in the test system business.
LORC selected GE considering the company’s extensive knowledge in the wind power industry.
Ove Poulsen, chief executive officer at LORC, said, “GE also provided us with a technical solution that best fits the requirements for this project. Users will be able to carry out a full range of tests on their equipment without having to adapt their turbine software or hardware. Because the test bench can be connected to a ‘virtual’ wind farm (created by separate system), it will be able to operate as HIL—Hardware in the Loop.”