BULETINUL INSTITUTULUI POLITEHNIC DIN IAŞI - Universitatea ...

Bul. Inst. Polit. Iaşi, t. LVI (LX), f. 2, 2010 179
updated information on the ability of the structure to perform its intended
function, depending on the inevitable aging process and the degradation caused
by the operation conditions. Ensuing extreme events such as earthquakes, MSR
is used to obtain nearly real-time, reliable information on the integrity of the
structure [1].
The same as wind turbines, the MSR system can provide data on the state of
integrity of the assembly. The damage caused by wind turbines which can be
detected by MSR is listed below, depending on the functional characteristics of
the system. Early warning, with the following advantages and benefits:
a) Prevention of breakdown; better planning of the revisions; reducing the
cost of repairs; minimization of the reparation time.
Problem identification, with the following advantages and benefits:
a) Servicing at the appropriate time; reduction of the number of replaced
parts; solving problems while still in warranty; reduction of the costs; operation
at normal parameters.
Continuous monitoring, with the following advantages and benefits:
a) Constant update on the working parameters; security, less stress.
The benefits of having a detection system faults are: [6], [13].
a) The prevention of premature breakdown: prevention of disasters, failure
and secondary defects.
b) Lower maintenance costs.
c) Remote monitoring and remote diagnosis: turbines are usually built within
a long distance from the premises of the beneficiary.
d) Improvement of the capacity to warn against impending failure; the
duration of the repairing process can be reduced in the windy season and
consequently the production will not be affected.
e) Support for the further development of a turbine: the data which has been
gathered can be used to improve the models of the future turbine generation.
With a reliable MSR, one can successfully plan an efficient maintenance
and repair strategy of the wind turbines, especially offshore. Maintenance and
repair can be performed on demand, when the weather conditions are
favourable. Similarly, the mobilization to cover the costs of personnel, materials
and equipment can be optimized [7].
An ideal monitoring system consists of two main components: a network of
sensors for data collection and an algorithm for data analysis, which is used to
interpret the measurements and determine the physical condition of the
structures.
These methods, which are either already applicable or promise application
to the wind turbine systems in the near future, are presented below.