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PRESS
INFORMATION
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Silent
power generation gets bearing support
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QUOTE
REF:SKF376
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With a rated power output of 1.5kW, the SWIFT Rooftop Wind Energy System can either be grid-connected for embedded power generation or alternatively linked to an immersion water heating system. Renewable Devices has extensive experience in developing and installing Wind turbines of all sizes. An increasing number of industrial customers are installing wind turbines of all sizes at their sites to reduce energy expenditure and offset the Climate Change Levy. The feasibility of these schemes depends on the safety and reliability given by SKF bearings used in the wind turbines. The SWIFT's design process focused on safety (exceeding safety standard BS EN 61400/2), reliability and ease of operation, with SKF bearings used throughout to ensure both nacelle and rotor turn with maximum efficiency and reliability. Its innovative carbon-fibre rotor is supported by two W6208-2Z stainless steel, single row, deep-groove ball bearings, which have been specifically selected to cope with the immense gyroscopic and thrust loads which are imposed by the aerodynamics of the turbine, especially in high winds. The rotation speed and system integrity are controlled in such conditions by the uniquely developed over-power regulation mechanism. This consists of a patented twin-vane progressive mechanical furling mechanism coupled with a sophisticated electronic control system. The optimum amount of power can then be taken from the turbine under all wind and loading conditions without stalling, representing a step change in the accurate and safe control of small wind turbines. The mechanical furling mechanism incorporates another SKF stainless steel, single row, deep-groove ball bearing within its yaw mechanism. This mechanism allows the turbine to track the wind direction as it changes and a W6010-2RSI bearing is responsible for carrying the main yaw loads, which in turn is backed up by a additional 6005-2Z bearing to increase the overall stability of the yaw assembly. To ensure minimal transmission of oscillations from the wind turbine to building, the SWIFT turbine mounting brackets incorporate damping systems designed to absorb a wide range of frequencies. The patented ring diffuser also minimises turbine noise by preventing the creation of turbulent vortices at the blade tip. In addition the five-bladed design allows for a slower speed of rotation to further reduce noise, making the SWIFT Rooftop Wind Energy System the quietest wind system currently available. In general, it can be expected that the SWIFT™ will generate up to 4,000kWh per year (although this will vary according to the wind resource at the site) providing a net financial benefit of up to £440 per year. Renewable Devices has completed the development phase of the SWIFT™ silent rooftop wind turbine and electronic control system and is currently ramping up its production capability. Extensive testing has been carried out on the pre-production units to ensure the systems safe and efficient operation. Manufacture has commenced of pre-production models and these are currently being installed in diverse locations across the UK. Renewable Devices is currently working in partnership with Scottish & Southern Energy plc to bring several thousand units to the market in the next 2 years. Released 20-01-05 |
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further information contact: Phil Burge Press
enquiries: John Houston or Geraldine Cordeiro
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As
part of its mission to provide accessible renewable energy products
and reduce fuel poverty, Renewable Devices has designed and manufactured
the world's first silent, rooftop-mountable wind turbine. Capable
of providing a cost-effective renewable energy source for domestic,
community and industrial use, the turbine called upon technology
and expertise from SKF for its groundbreaking performance.