As a kind of clean renewable energy, wind energy plays an increasingly important role in today's energy structure. As the core equipment of wind energy conversion to electric energy, the efficiency and reliability of wind turbines are directly related to the economic benefits of wind farms. In the design and operation of wind turbines, the role of seals is crucial, they can not only protect the internal parts from the erosion of the external environment, but also ensure that the connection between the various components of the generator is sealed, so as to ensure the long-term stable operation of the wind turbine.
1. Classification and application of seals
In wind turbines, seals are mainly divided into static seals and dynamic seals. Static seals are used to seal between fixed parts, such as the seal between the shell and the bolt; Dynamic seals are used to seal between rotating parts, such as the seal between the gearbox and the spindle. These seals are usually made of rubber, plastic or metal materials, and their shape and structure vary according to the needs of different applications.
2. The role of seals
The role of seals in wind turbines is mainly reflected in the following aspects:
Prevent leakage: There are many lubricants and coolants inside the wind turbine, and the seals prevent these fluids from leaking into the external environment, while also preventing external dust and water from entering the internal space.
Maintain pressure balance: In certain high-pressure areas of a wind turbine, seals maintain the pressure balance of the system and prevent the internal pressure from being too high or too low.
Keep the environment clean: Through the isolation of the seals, it can effectively prevent dirt, dust, sand, etc. from invading the inside of the wind turbine, and avoid the impact of these pollutants on the normal operation of the generator.
Protection of the lubrication system: the internal lubrication system of the wind turbine is the basis for its normal operation, and the seals can prevent the loss of lubricating oil and maintain the normal work of the lubrication system.
3. Selection and maintenance of seals
Selecting the right type and material of seals is the key to ensuring reliable operation of wind turbines. In the selection, it is necessary to consider the temperature resistance, oil resistance, aging resistance, chemical resistance, wear resistance and other factors of the seal. At the same time, the installation and maintenance of the seal is also very important, the wrong installation method will reduce the sealing effect, and even lead to the failure of the seal, so the need for professional maintenance personnel to install and maintain.
4. Selection and maintenance of seals
Take the main bearing of wind turbine as an example, the main bearing sealing ring is usually made of fluorine rubber (FKM) double-lip sealing ring. The sealing ring has good oil resistance and high temperature resistance, and can meet the sealing requirements of the main bearing under high load and high-speed rotation. During maintenance, it is necessary to regularly check the wear of the sealing ring and replace the aging sealing ring.
5. Conclusion
Seals play an important role in wind turbines, they can not only protect the internal parts from the erosion of the external environment, but also ensure that the connection between the various components of the generator is sealed, so as to ensure the long-term stable operation of the wind turbine. Therefore, reasonable selection and correct maintenance of seals is of great significance for improving the overall performance and economic benefits of wind turbines. With the progress of technology, new sealing materials and design schemes continue to emerge, which is expected to further improve the sealing effect of wind turbines, extend the service life, and promote the development of wind power industry