As more of the world shifts away from conventional coal-powered energy source, many companies, and countries, are switching to alternative means. Wind energy is one of the largest sources of clean energy available harnessing the wind, a naturally occurring force in our atmosphere. As OEMs transfer more resources to wind energy, they might realize the different sets of challenges that come along with it. Partnering with a dedicated seal manufacturer can help you ensure wind turbine reliability and overcome the challenges of installation on such a large structure. You need a properly installed seal on a wind turbine to ensure it can handle extreme temperature shifts, environmental factors like snow and rain, and be able to run properly for extended periods of time. One of the best ways to make sure a seal will function properly is to partner with a reliable seal manufacturer.
The Critical Role of Seals in Wind Turbines
Seals are necessary in wind turbines and wind energy. They help prevent Mother Nature from invading the inner workings of the turbine, keep grease and lubricant inside the chassis of the structure, and also keep the friction of the spinning wind blades to a minimum. The hydraulic systems inside the turbine also need pressure regulated and contained to prevent critical failures.
Wind turbines face extreme temperature shifts, especially in places like the United States, where the summers can reach scorching hot, and the winters reach bitter cold. Certain polymers and elastomers are designed to specifically handle not only these large gaps in temperatures but also the sudden change of temperature in a short time frame. Going from seventy to thirty degrees in a day will cause rubbers to expand and contract. Expanding and contracting too rapidly can crash or blister the seal leading to leaks or higher friction. These are huge structural failures that could lead to a wind turbine being out of the job for long periods of time, ultimately wasting the productivity time it has.
In this guide we are going to cover some of the harder parts of installing a seal in a wind turbine, how to work with a dedicated seal manufacturer in designing and composing the seal, and the struggles of installing such a large seal into such a large machine. The best way to ensure the reliability of a wind turbine is to take the extra steps in proper installation and design.
Why Seal Swell is a Major Issue for OEMs
The Hidden Cost of Seal Swell – The major concern for any seal is leaks. If a seal swells, it will contort and allow liquid to escape from it where it normally would not. The softened seal can also increase friction from the extra pressure. If the wrong polymer absorbs liquid and the seal is swelling, the cost could rack up quickly replacing the seal repeatedly.
Industries Most Affected by Seal Swell – Some industries struggle with fluid compatibility as they deal with transporting liquid. Oil and gas, chemical processing, food and beverage, and hydraulic systems all move large amounts of liquid. The more a seal encounters a liquid, the more likely it will be to absorb and swell.
The cause of seal swell is straightforward, but understanding the polymer limitations, identifying the problem, and setting up a maintenance system to identify problem areas.
The Critical Role of Seals in Wind Turbines
Seals are necessary in wind turbines and wind energy. They help prevent Mother Nature from invading the inner workings of the turbine, keep grease and lubricant inside the chassis of the structure, and also keep the friction of the spinning wind blades to a minimum. The hydraulic systems inside the turbine also need pressure regulated and contained to prevent critical failures.
Wind turbines face extreme temperature shifts, especially in places like the United States, where the summers can reach scorching hot, and the winters reach bitter cold. Certain polymers and elastomers are designed to specifically handle not only these large gaps in temperatures but also the sudden change of temperature in a short time frame. Going from seventy to thirty degrees in a day will cause rubbers to expand and contract. Expanding and contracting too rapidly can crash or blister the seal leading to leaks or higher friction. These are huge structural failures that could lead to a wind turbine being out of the job for long periods of time, ultimately wasting the productivity time it has.
In this guide we are going to cover some of the harder parts of installing a seal in a wind turbine, how to work with a dedicated seal manufacturer in designing and composing the seal, and the struggles of installing such a large seal into such a large machine. The best way to ensure the reliability of a wind turbine is to take the extra steps in proper installation and design.
Conclusion: Secure Your Wind Turbine’s Future with Quality Sealing Solutions
Partnering with a dedicated seal manufacturer can save you money in the long run, but building that relationship can also give you access to many more perks than buying in bulk from a distributor. Those difficult seals in wind turbines may have difficult installation instructions or require detailed steps, and your partner will have that information ready for you in a moment’s notice. It also opens up new options to experimental seal designs and polymers, putting you ahead of your competition in terms of wind turbine lifespan or window of maximum production.
Assess your current seal strategies, your routine maintenance schedules, and your cost per seal over long periods of time. We guarantee if you’re buying generic rubber seals from a distributor, they are failing more often than a specially designed seal, like our Vortex Seal. Reach out to us anytime here at System Seals to discuss your needs and we’ll be happy to walk you through a step-by-step process to get you started on this journey of partnering with an advanced sealing solutions manufacturer.
