The Consequences of Ice Buildup on Wind Turbines
Wind turbines have become commonplace in countrysides across the globe. While these turbines are very efficient when operating in temperate conditions, winter weather is another story. In colder climates snow and ice accumulates on the blades of wind turbines leading to a number of challenges.
Reduction In Power Output
In a country like Canada, turbine blades can experience some degree of icing for 20% of the time between November and April. This increase in rotor blade load can result in loss of power output as well as periodic shutdowns for de-icing operations.
Damage to Equipment
Additional structural stress due to ice buildup can also increase wear and tear on equipment, ultimately resulting in equipment failure if de-icing is not handled in a timely manner.
Dangers of Ice Throw
If ice build up on wind turbines is not handled effectively there is always the risk of ice throw. Any ice build up on a wind turbine can become dislodged due to change in wind, temperature or turbine movement. Ice can in turn be thrown hundreds of feet resulting in damage and injury to nearby structures and people.
Current Solutions
Many current de-icing techniques are effective at removing ice buildup. The issue comes in detecting when a turbine requires de-icing. There are a number of instruments currently being used to detect ice accretion on wind turbines. However, while rotor blade systems can detect some rotor icing they do not have a high level of efficacy and offer limited function. Many other ice detection systems are not being utilized due to high cost, high energy demands as well as lack of accuracy and reliability.
Podium’s Frozen Precipitation Sensor
Podium has developed a frozen precipitation sensor (FPS) to address these limitations. The FPS is a surface based sensor that offers accurate ice detection in real time. The FPS is also very affordable to manufacture as is can be constructed from off the shelf components and it requires very little power to operate.
Ultimately, the FPS offers wind turbine operators the ability to address the challenges of reduced power output, damaged equipment and ice throw as quickly and efficiently as possible. It also opens up the door for autonomous de-icing systems reducing operating costs and increasing efficiency and return on investment
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