Cold weather affects the design requirements for most wind turbine subsystems. In some cases, there are extreme cold temperatures and weather-related situations that may deem special equipment be engineered into the system.  Hydraulic pitch systems, for example, require heating to ensure that the hydraulic fluid maintains the proper viscosity.  During power outages the heating systems cannot operate, creating the potential for component failure and protracted periods of lost availability when attempting to restart at low temperatures. Restarting after a power outage is often the most critical time for any wind turbine subsystem.  This is especially true of the pitch system due to its proximity to the outside environment.

The Windurance Electric Servo Pitch Control© is ideal for low temperature extremes including, freeze-thaw cycles, condensing moisture, icing and harsh environments. The batteries and capacitors are designed and tested for their charge and discharge capabilities from -40 to +50ºC while maintaining plenty of drive and energy capacity.  Several special features are engineered into the standard system to protect and assure reliable operation of the Windurance Servo Pitch Control during the extreme conditions arising out of low temperature weather.

Windurance systems are engineered to every application.  Contact us today to have your pitch control system customized to your cold weather extreme application.

Photo courtesy of DOE/NREL – Credit Green Mountain Power Corporation