Centralized Lubrication Fears No Heights. Intelligent System Solutions for Wind Turbine Generators

Transcription

1 Centralized Lubrication Fears No Heights Intelligent System Solutions for Wind Turbine Generators

2 SKF Expertise and global presence Around the world, where the rotor of a wind energy system spins, SKF is there to provide high-tech solutions. SKF has put together a technology package used by customers worldwide to derive top efficiency from their wind turbine generators. It ensures the reliable operation of their wind turbine generators over the long-term. SKF not only designs and develops bearings, seals, lubricants and lubrication systems for wind turbine generators, but is also committed to providing high quality service. A prime supplier of wind energy technology For more than a century, SKF, a leading global provider of bearings and bearing units, has advanced the state of the art in all sectors of industry with its exceptional products and solutions, including a relatively new sector involving wind energy utilization. SKF has been around from the very beginning and is familiar in detail with the complicated interrelationships involved in wind energy technology. This includes the entire process of providing effective lubrication for wind turbine generators. SKF further expanded its expertise in lubrication engineering with the acquisition in 2004 of Willy Vogel AG, the global leader in centralized lubrication systems. SKF is thus a prime supplier for equipping modern wind turbine generators with high-quality components and intelligent system solutions. This acquisition has further strengthened the group s five areas of competence (bearings and bearing units, lubrication systems, seals, mechatronics, and services) by combining synergies to develop superior lubrication solutions for customers around the world. Product solutions with high power density The larger the wind energy system, the more important the power density characteristics become. There is a clear relationship between weight and performance: less weight means greater performance, lower cost and better reliability. The SKF solution for weight reduction: unique bearing designs and perfectly coordinated material combinations which reduce the number of components used in modern wind turbine generators. Your partners for SKF lubrication solutions for wind energy technology SKF Lubrication Centers of Excellence SKF Lubrication Application Centers selection of further SKF locations 2

3 Hockenheim Germany SKF lubrication knowledge Aiming for longer life, bigger load capacity and less energy consumption, always takes you to the tribology field. That s the reason why SKF established a specialized research centre where lubrication mechanisms are studied in detail and innovative solutions are developed to improve the lubrication of your bearings. All SKF greases are developed, analyzed and tested before reaching your machines, making sure you receive the proper lubricant and support for your application anywhere in the world. Intelligent systems, whether onshore or offshore SKF developed the remote-controlled WindCon monitoring system and condition-based maintenance so that operators always have their wind turbine generators safely under control anywhere around the world, on land or offshore. Both areas monitoring and maintenance now rank with bearings and bearing units, seals, lubricants and lubrication systems as the core competencies that SKF provides its wind energy technology customers around the world. Global availability in service of customers Over 100 manufacturing sites around the globe, plus a network of sales organizations in all markets, including consulting and service, confirm that: SKF is a truly global company. For our customers, this means that individual components and complete systems are available quickly and directly. This high degree of availability, of course, also benefits our customers who want to equip their wind turbine generators with an effective, automated centralized lubrication system from SKF. Hampton, VA USA Shanghai China Pusan Korea Pune India 3

4 Profit from an experienced partner Several thousand wind turbine generators around the world are operating reliably with the SKF WindLub centralized and automatic lubrication systems. On land, in the water, in the tropics, at the polar circle or in the desert, SKF has the right lubrication system solution for wind turbine generators for every climatic zone. Our engineers and technicians have developed customized lubrication system solutions for efficiently operating wind turbine generators with various performance requirements. A business sector with excellent prospects Modern wind turbine generators are high-performance units that are subject to constant development. At SKF, our designing engineers are looking ahead too. Electricity produced from wind energy represents a rising portion of the global energy balance. As a result of this development, efforts are being made to improve all individual components and coordinate them to continue to increase the already high efficiency and system availability. Against this backdrop, SKF, as a leading global supplier of centralized lubrication systems, is working hard on further optimizing its entire product portfolio, which covers all aspects of wind energy system lubrication. Know-how transfer combined with specialist expertise Over the decades, countless lubrication system solutions from SKF have been used successfully around the world to reduce wear and tear in machines and systems in all branches of our industry, in commercial vehicles, railway vehicles and ship and air transport. Our engineers and technicians have used the comprehensive knowledge of these traditional fields of technology to operate modern wind turbine generators using high-efficiency lubrication system solutions specially tailored to the wind energy field. We support our customers with our expertise. 4

5 There is no real alternative to automated lubrication systems Only automated lubrication systems can reliably ensure lubricant supply to all components of a wind energy system. This applies, in particular, to offshore systems that are subject to extreme conditions. Automated lubrication systems reduce friction inside bearings, prevent contaminant particles from penetrating and make wind energy systems run more smoothly. Dispensing the correct amount of the optimal lubricant at consistent intervals places high demands on the lubrication system demands that are met by the centralized lubrication systems from SKF. They continuously guide even the smallest amount of lubricant reliably to the friction points of a wind energy system, resulting in smooth operation over the long-term. Centralized lubrication systems pay off quickly Centralized lubrication systems reduce the costs for maintenance, lubricant handling and the lubricants themselves. System availability is increased at the same time. A profitability calculation was performed, taking into consideration the current prices and hourly rates for service technicians on the one hand and the additional revenue resulting from greater system availability on the other: A system in the 2 MW class can pay off its investment in a SKF kit approx. three years and in two years for a 3.5 MW system. Lubricants: The blood in your lubrication system Having a reliable lubrication system that delivers the right quantity at the right time is as important as having on that dispenses an appropriate lubricant that helps to ensure the required conditions minimise friction and wear. Indeed, a high performance lubricant will help you to extend lubrication intervals, reduce grease consumption and, of course, improve the reliability of your machinery. With SKF greases and SKF lubrication systems you can rely on SKF Knowledge to take care of your bearings. Every location has differing conditions Manufacturers offer wind turbine generators in various performance classes based on the usage location in order to exploit wind energy as optimally and efficiently as possible. Corresponding to these performance classes, the associated centralized lubrication systems must be designed taking into account the environmental influences of the particular location must be taken into consideration. Our engineers and technicians have developed solutions that are tailored to the special characteristics of the place of installation and also protect the environment and natural resources. SKF solutions cover the lubrication of all components and units in a wind energy system. 5

6 Centralized lubrication systems Used in all areas In order to help ensure optimal lubrication of a wind energy system, each basic unit must be put through a special inspection. The various componetens of a wind energy system must take into account the local performance requirements. SKF has thus developed various lubrication system solutions for blade bearings, blade pitch, main bearings, yaw bearings including their gearbox, and generators that result in each unit of a wind energy system being reliably lubricated. Blade bearings The rotor requires constant resupply of lubricant to the blade bearing. The lubrication unit responsible for this is mounted in the rotor. Therefore, it constantly turns with the rotor and has to be adjusted to the resulting loads (vibration, centrifugal force). SKF s special KFG grease pumps, which are fitted with a grease follower plate, are used in this location. These ensure that grease is in the area of the pump elements, even while in rotation, thus effords a continuous suction process. From there the grease arrives at the feeders connected using either a progressive or single-line lubrication system. The feeders ensure precise distribution of the lubricant to the individual lubrication points. These greases must work under a lot of extremely tough conditions where conventional lubricants do not normally work. SKF LGBB2 grease which has been especially formulated and tested both in lab and in the field, has excellent water and corrosion resistance, superior performance at low starting torque as well as thermal and mechanical stability properties. Blade pitch The rotor blades can be electrically adjusted in wind turbine generators. Lubrication for blade gearing is supplied via the KFG pump for the rotary application. SKF lubrication pinions apply the grease precisely to the area of contact on the drive pinion or blade drive gear and evenly lubricate the entire cog width. For this application, SKF LGBB 2 is suitable as well. Main bearings The main bearings of a wind turbine are subject to severe forces and usually require large quantities of lubricating grease. This is where the complete series of SKF standard pumps (KFG, KFA, FF, FB and FK pump series) for wind turbine generators come into play. The centralized lubrication system ensures that grease is continually supplied to the main bearings even while in motion. SKF has also developed 3 different greases for this application. With SKF support, you can determine the environmental and working conditions of turbine and properly choosen between SKF LGWM 1, LGWM 2 or LGEP 2 grease. 6

7 Yaw bearings with gearing An electrical grease pump introduces lubricant into the yaw bearing via progressive or single-line feeders. The use of the centralized lubrication system here ensures a sufficiently thick lubricant film to prevent excessive wear and the so-called stick-slip effect upon turning the nacelle. The automatic lubrication pinion meters precisely onto the gearing. It distributes the lubricant in the area of contact precisely and equally across the entire cog width. Any used grease is systematically removed by the lubricant collector and caught in a collection tank to prevent it from dripping on the nacelle floor. When it comes to the right grease, the working conditions are quite similar to blade bearings: high loads, slow movements, etc, make LGBB 2 suitable for this application as well. Gearbox Oil serves several tasks in the gearbox; it lubricates and cools the lubrication points. It removes contamination and filters it from the oil cycle. Electric heaters can be used to ensure optimal start-up temperature in the lubrication cycle in case of cold external temperatures. Flow limiters maintain the prescribed oil volume flows independent of pressure and temperature changes and provide feedback on the current flow rates on request. Generator High temperatures and speeds inside the generator require special high-tech lubricants and an extremely well functioning centralized lubrication system. The greases are extremely stiff at low temperatures. The KFG pump unit ensures that the lubrication points are supplied with lubricant even in these extreme conditions. Control and Monitoring A benefit of automated centralized lubrication systems is that they can be started and monitored by the wind energy system control. If this is not possible, the lubrication systems can be equipped with integrated controls so they function independent of the wind energy system. Active response to different system statuses is possible when CAN bus systems are installed in conjunction with condition monitoring systems such as the SKF WindCon

8 SKF WindLub, the right lubrication system for each task Nothing works without wind and nothing works for very long without the right lubrication system. Selecting the right system is thus of critical importance. SKF WindLub, centralized and automatic lubrication systems for wind turbines, includes solutions for both total loss and circulating oil lubrication. These two systems have proven effective for lubrication in wind turbine generators, namely progressive and single-line centralized lubrication systems. Circulating oil lubrication is recommended for lubricating the gears. SKF ProFlex, progressive lubrication systems Components: Pump unit with pump elements and pressure safety valve Lubricant lines (main and secondary feed lines possible) Progressive feeder Functional description: When the pump motor is turned on, the piston pump delivers lubricant from the lubricant reservoir to the lubricant outlet. The pump element attached to the outlet delivers the lubricant into the downstream main line. The lubricant flows through the main line to the progressive feeder. There, the lubricant is distributed according to the volume required by the lubrication point to be supplied. In progressive centralized lubrication systems with master and secondary feeders, the master feeder delivers the lubricant to the secondary feeder according to the volume required. From there, the lubricant flows to the lubrication points. Easy system monitoring via series connection with metering piston Continuous delivery of lubricant Simple system blockage control Pump units can be designed with integrated controls as well as CAN bus connection Manual lubrication aid with progressive feeders for small wind energy systems available 8

9 SKF MonoFlex, single-line lubrication systems Components: Pump unit with pump elements Pressure-relief valve with integrated pressure safety valve Lubricant lines (main and secondary feed lines) Single-line distributors Functional description: When the pump motor is turned on, the piston pump delivers lubricant from the reservoir to the lubricant outlet. The pump element attached to the outlet meters the lubricant and delivers it through the pressure relief valve to the main line. The lubricant flows through the main line to the single-line distributors. Lubricant is metered via single line distributors, which deliver the lubricant to all lubrication points almost simultaneously. The individual lubricant requirement for each lubrication point can be adapted using metering nipples of various dimensions. Depending on the type of piston distributor used, lubrication is performed either via pump pressure while the pump is running (prelubrication distributor) or after switching off the pump, whereby the system is relieved via the spring force of the piston springs (relubrication distributor). A lubrication cycle is defined by pressure build-up and the consequent relief when the necessary pressure switch change-over pressure is reached. Suitable for nearly all lubricants Optical blockage control of every lubrication point, directly at the feeder via indicator pin Pump units can be designed with integrated controls as well as a CAN bus connection SKF CircOil, circulating oil lubrication systems Components: Pump unit, special units with plate separator technology Filter and cooling technology Oil distributor, monitored by volume Functional description: Circulating oil lubrication systems are used to provide effective protection against gear wear in wind turbine generators. In contrast to total loss lubrication systems, after the oil passes through the point requiring lubrication, it is fed back through the return line into the oil container for re-use, regardless of pressure and viscosity. In addition to lubricating, circulating oil lubrication performs a range of other functions. It stabilizes the gear to the proper temperature, removes wear particles from friction points, prevents corrosion damage and removes condensation water. The monitoring devices associated with the system evaluate the traditional circulating oil system parameters such as flow rates, pressures and temperatures. On request, sensors can be supplied to monitor the viscosity, dielectricity and moisture. Contaminant particle counters are also available (Oil Condition Monitoring). Efficient cooling and lubrication Water separation Condition monitoring Demand-based distribution of lubricant which can be monitored Oil deoxidizing and de-aerating plate separator technology 9

10 The right components for every system Pumps in numerous performance and design variants. SKF offers a comprehensive range of electrically driven pump units for both single-line and progressive lubrication systems and circulating-oil lubrication systems. The most frequently used pump in wind energy system centralized lubrication systems is the KFG piston pump unit. KFA pump unit This pump is characterized by its compact design. It is used in situations requiring little lubrication. KFG pump unit The KFG pump is available in stationary and rotary design. Both variants can be equipped with an integrated CAN-Bus control system and are suitable for standard greases up to NLGI Grade 2 and low working temperatures. Areas of use: SKF ProFlex, Main bearings, generator bearings, yaw bearings, yaw gearings Technical features: Reservoir capacity: 1 kg Number of outlets: 2 Delivery volume: 1.0; 1.5; 2.0 cm³/min Compact design Cost saving for low lubricant amounts Low power input Standard stationary design Areas of use: SKF ProFlex, SKF MonoFlex, Main bearings, generator bearings, yaw bearings, yaw gearings Technical features: Reservoir capacity: 2; 6; 10 kg Number of outlets: 3 Delivery volume: 0.8 to 5,0 cm³/min Compact and reliable Safer operation even in low temperatures due to agitator blade technology Control unit with memory and system monitoring function Design for rotary area Areas of use: SKF ProFlex, SKF MonoFlex, Main bearings, blade bearings, blade gearings Technical features: Reservoir capacity: 4; 6; 8; 10; 12 kg Number of outlets: 3 Delivery volume: 0.8 to 5 cm³/min Compact and reliable Reliable operation in rotary use due to grease follower plate Pump unit, series KFA Pump units, series KFG, standard stationary design Pump unit, series KFG, designed for rotary area 10

11 Criteria such as environmental conditions, the required delivery rate, the type of lubrication used and the maintenance intervals determine the choice of lubricant pump. The pumps can be delivered with or without an integrated control unit. FF pump unit Robust design with three phase motor, metal tank and positively driven pistons. Areas of use: SKF ProFlex, SKF MonoFlex Main bearings, yaw bearings, yaw gearings Technical features: Reservoir capacity: 4; 10 kg Number of outlets: 1 to 12 Delivery volume: 0.04 to 7 cm³/min Very robust and vibration resistant multiline pump Suitable for oils and very stiff greases Suitable for rough climatical conditions Suitable for continuous operation FB pump unit Similar to FF pump unit, however with larger capacity Areas of use: SKF ProFlex, SKF MonoFlex Main bearings, yaw bearings, yaw gearings Technical features: Reservoir capacity: 6; 15; 30 kg Number of outlets: 1 to 24 Delivery volume: 0.04 to 7 cm³/min Very robust and vibration resistant multiline pump Suitable for oils and very stiff greases Suitable for rough climatical conditions Suitable for continuous operation FK pump unit If larger capacity is needed, the FK pump can be used. Areas of use: SKF ProFlex, SKF MonoFlex Main bearings Technical features: Reservoir capacity: 15; 30; 60 kg Number of outlets: 1 Delivery volume: 12.3 to 74 cm³/min High pressure performance up to 400 bar Fill level monitoring (using ultrasonic sensor) with two adjustable switching points Suitable for use in arctic conditions Pump unit, series FF Pump unit, series FB Pump unit, series FK 11

12 Exact metering for each component SKF lubricant distributors are high-precision components. They are available in special material for various climates. Lubricant distributors introduce the precisely metered lubricant to the components requiring lubrication Distributors providing single-line lubrication or progressive lubrication are used, depending on the specific system in use. Flow meters or flow limiters can be used for circulating oil lubrication. Progressive feeders Progressive feeders are available in block construction or as sectional feeders. Both types function according to the same principle. They are sturdy and easy to install. However, a subsequent change in the number of lubrication points also requires additional work and expense. Progressive feeder functions can be monitored both electronically as well as optically. Sturdy and low cost Central function monitoring of all feeder ports with a minimum of work Accurate lubricant distribution, even with back pressure at the lubrication points, due to fitted pistons. Single-line distributors Specially developed wind energy single-line distributors are used, in which the lubricant is delivered by pump pressure to the point requiring lubrication. Single-line distributors can be supplied with up to 12 outlets and visual stroke monitoring. Systems with single-line distributors can be expanded without significant additional effort. Every lubrication point can be optically monitored using indicator pin. Innovative, extremely compact design High pressure resistance (315 bar) High relief pressure (30 or 70 bar) High operational reliability when using stiff greases at low working temperatures Flow dividers Flow dividers used in circulating oil lubrication systems divide up the volumetric flow of the main line into parallel individual volumetric flows and limit these according to demand. Sensor or gear-type flow indicators are used to monitor the volumetric flow. Almost constant flow rate due to pressure-compensated technology Regardless of oil viscosity and pressure changes Continuous actual value comparison of delivery rate Progressive feeders VPB and VPK Single-line distributor VR Flow divider SP/SMT 12

13 Perfectly lubricated, tooth by tooth Lubrication pinions and lubricant collectors are used for open gear rims both a particularly effective and clean solution. Lubrication pinions from SKF do all the work when it comes to automated lubrication of open gear rims in wind turbine generators. They provide perfect lubricant distribution to the tooth flanks across the entire cog width. Lubricant collectors gather excess grease directly on the system s gear rim to prevent grease from exiting into the environment or contaminating the system when the gearing engages. Lubrication pinion Lubrication pinions are an ideal solution for supplying lubricant to gear rims, as they precisely introduce the lubricant to the tooth flanks one tooth at a time. Lubricant is introduced only through the lubrication pinion tooth that is engaged with the gear rim at the time. No other pinion teeth receive lubricant in this phase. Lubricant is distributed by rolling up the lubrication pinion. Special disks made of cellular rubber provide an even lubricant film across the entire cog width. Lubricant can be introduced in fine graduations to precisely match requirements. This reduces operational costs because lower consumption and longer intervals between maintenance afford significant cost savings. Mating of the materials metal and foam rubber provides a long service life even under unfavorable conditions. Advantages Cost savings by reducing lubricant consumption Cost savings by extending maintenance intervals Increased availability of system Reduction of operation costs Environmentally friendly Lubricant collector Where should the excess grease go that inevitably discharges in open gear trains? Over time this excess grease can lead to considerable contamination of the system and damage the environment. A downside of installing large pans or collecting scoops is that they significantly increase maintenance expenses. Compact lubricant collectors offer a better alternative. They are attached directly to the gear rim and automatically wipe used lubricant from the face sides of the gear rim. The old grease is held in the collector container which can then be quickly and easily replaced during the next servicing. SKF lubricant collectors not only reduce expenses in wind turbine generators but also represent an environmentally friendly, safe and especially clean solution. Advantages Cost savings by lower maintenance expenses Cost savings by extending maintenance intervals Reduction of operation costs Environmentally friendly Reduction of risk of injury from slipping Lubrication pinion Lubricant collector 13

14 Monitoring of centralized lubrication systems All status variables from the wind energy system are under control. Monitoring and control are essential to the efficient operation of modern wind turbine generators. By using intelligent monitoring devices, CAN-Bus technology and condition monitoring systems, all necessary data can be recorded in order to ensure an economical and optimized lubrication. Information in detail SKF has developed a number of system specific monitoring devices that electronically collect and evaluate signals from automated centralized lubrication systems. Special sensors can record the condition of the lubricant, container fill levels, system pressures, lubricant metering volumes, piston positions, temperatures, moisture levels, degree of contamination, etc. Measurements are made based on either time or load. Therefore, the associated control devices function either in an adjustable timeframe or based on the system cycle. Piston detector for SKF ProFlex The seal less attached piston detector on the progressive feeders monitors the function of the feeders and transmits the individual feeder values to the downstream monitoring system. Pressure switch for SKF MonoFlex The pressure switch is primarily used in single-line centralized lubrication systems. After the metering is complete and the pre-set pressure has been reached, the pressure switch installed at the end of the line system sends a signal to the wind energy system s central control unit. After the pre-set delay time, the control unit cuts off the power supply to the relief valve and the pump unit and the lubrication system is relieved. The system is ready for the next lubrication cycle. Gear-type flow indicator for SKF CircOil Gear-type flow indicators and sensors are used as a monitoring system in flow limiters. While the sensor transfers function monitoring via an analog signal, this information is transferred via a digital signal in the case of gear wheel-type flow indicators (NAMUR). Progressive feeder with piston detector 14

15 SKF WindCon, the ideal companion for SKF WindLub Any time and anywhere. CAN bus monitors each individual lubrication zone The CAN bus technology used by SKF allows up to four lubrication zones supplied by a pump unit to be handled independent of one another. An electronic valve is used for control; sensors are used for function monitoring. Electronic control and monitoring communicates with the on-board computer via the CAN bus so as to fully integrate lubrication in the on-board service and status monitoring program. Comprehensive monitoring by sensors detects even the smallest of errors in the lubrication system. This technology ensures optimized lubrication for each individual lubrication zone according to demand, resulting in significantly reduced lubricant costs. Detect error causes early-on with SKF WindCon 3.0 Perfectly configured centralized lubrication systems such as SKF WindLub, combined with the SKF WindCon 3.0 intelligent condition monitoring system, helps ensure the operational reliability of wind turbine generators over the long-term. The SKF WindCon condition monitoring system, originally developed for offshore wind turbine generators, is installed in the nacelle of the wind energy system. It automatically inspects the vibration levels of bearings, gearings, power transmission elements and all installed monitoring devices and readings recorders. The Windowsbased ProCon software is the core of the monitoring system. It is user-friendly and combines powerful functions with an advanced database. If an error is detected, an alarm message is automatically sent to the central system, which can be located either on the operator s premises or at SKF. The diagnosed data regarding the system status can be visualized online through WebCon. Information is transmitted in real-time. SKF WindCon is certified by Germanischer Lloyd and the Allianz Center for Technology (AZT). This intelligent monitoring system allows error causes to be detected early-on and enables measures to be taken in time to help prevent operational failures. SKF WindLub in combination with SKF WindCon 15

16 SKF bearing greases for wind turbines Even the very best bearings can only perform optimally when they are lubricated correctly. Therefore, it is extremely important to select the appropriate bearing grease and to apply the most suitable lubrication intervals and methods. Incorrect lubrication accounts for up to 36% of premature bearing failures. All-purpose greases are inadequate for special bearing needs and can cause problems rather than be beneficial. Bearing applications have wide variations of operating conditions and correct lubrication calls for matching the grease precisely to the application. SKF s vast experience in developing rolling elements bearings and application expertise gained from working closely with customers in many industries has enabled us to develop a range of specialized bearing greases that are specially formulated to fulfill the needs of many different bearings and applications. Today s wind turbines are installed in harsh, remote environments and the wind farms of the future will most likely have to face even tougher conditions. This means that it is of the outmost importance to select the appropriate grease for lubricating the bearings to help increase reliability and avoid unplanned downtime. Continuous research and development and close cooperation with wind turbine manufacturers and operators has enabled SKF to develop a range of greases for different bearing applications in wind turbines. SKF greases are formulated to meet specific requirements of various applications, such as main shaft, generator, yaw and blades. These greases provide proper lubrication when the turbine is operating or in stand-still mode, installed onshore, offshore, in cold climate areas, or under other kinds of harsh conditions. SKF greases have excellent water and corrosion resistance, superior performance at low starting torque as well as thermal and mechanical stability. 16

17 SKF offers a wide range of bearing greases that have been tested and approved by wind turbine manufacturers and operators worldwide, including main shaft bearing greases (LGWM 1, LGWM 2, LGEP 2) and blade and yaw bearing grease (LGBB 2). LGWM 1 Extreme pressure low temperature bearing grease Mineral oil/lithium based Extremely suitable for lubrication of bearings operating under both radial and axial loads Temperature range from -30 C to 110 C Good film oil formation at low temperatures down to -30 C Good pumpability at low temperatures Good corrosion protection Good water resistance Especially suitable for main shaft bearings in wind turbines LGWM 2 High Load, wide temperature bearing grease Semi-synthetic base oil that is based on the latest complex calcium sulphonate thickener technology Temperature range from -40 C to 110 C Excellent corrosion protection Excellent mechanical stability Excellent high load lubricating capacity Good false brinelling protection Good pumpability down to low temperatures Especially suitable for main shaft bearings in wind turbines LGEP 2 High Load, extreme pressure bearing grease Mineral oil/lithium based Good lubrication in operating conditions ranging from -20 C up to 110 C Good mechanical stability Excellent water resistance and rust and corrosion inhibiting properties Excellent Extreme Pressure (EP) Performance Especially suitable for main shaft bearings in wind turbines LGBB 2 High Load, low speed bearing grease Synthetic oil (PAO) / Lithium complex based Wide temperature range from -40 C to 120 C Excellent performance under oscillating or even standing still conditions Ideal when frequent start-up conditions are present Very low friction and start-up torque at low temperatures down to -40 C Outstanding corrosion protection, making it ideal for offshore applications Especially suitable for blade and yaw bearings in wind turbines 17

18 Services are paramount at SKF The right strategy and appropriate measures provide great possibilities for optimizing maintenance and repair. System downtime during excellent wind conditions is something that should be avoided. It becomes even more problematic when costs for maintenance and repair start to become unwieldy. SKF has thus developed a comprehensive service and maintenance program that extends from professional installation to regular inspections and maintenance work to replacing parts subject to wear and retrofitting with kits. When dealing with new tasks, our engineers and technicians can take advantage of the expertise and experience in the SKF Reliability Systems division including expertise in the selection of appropriate lubricants and maintenance concepts. The focus of SKF services is on condition-based maintenance, including data recorded by the SKF WindCon 3.0 condition monitoring system. An IMS (Integrated Maintenance Solution) agreement can be entered into with SKF that will result in complete and proper maintenance. This agreement promises increased productivity and enhanced operational safety, as well as greater wind energy system availability. This agreement can include: Vibration measurements and analyses; Bearing failure analyses; Lubricant analyses; Assembly and dismantling services; Technical advisory services for installation and retrofitting proposals; Seminars for training and continuing education of maintenance engineers. You can find a comprehensive range of products for maintenance and repair at 18

19 Take the chance of learning more about what SKF offers for the wind industry. The table gives you an overview of all SKF publications related to the wind industry. The SKF Media Library is the one-stop shop for SKF publications on skf.com. You can find publications by searching and you can then download them in PDF format. For printed copies, please contact your SKF representative. Publication No. Publication title SKF Wind capability folder 6592 Power for a new generation SKF General offers for the wind industry 6914 Discover the opportunities SKF Lubrication Systems EN Reservoir pump units of the KFG series (S) (C) rotary EN Reservoir pump units of the KFG series (S) (C) standard EN Multiline pump unit FF EN Multiline pump unit FB EN Grease lubrication pump FK EN VR single line distributor EN Block feeder VPB EN Sectional feeder VPK EN Flow limiter SP/SMB 3 and SP/SMB EN Flow limiter SP/SMB EN Flow limiter SP/SMB EN Flow limiter SP/SMB EN Flow limiter SP/SMB EN Flow divider SP/SMT EN Lubricant collector EN Lubricating pinion EN Heated centralized grease lubrication system for use at low temperatures SKF Bearings and bearing units Slewing bearings 6148 EN Don t expect us to simply go with the wind XL Hybrid bearings 6306 EN Don t let electricity get you down Nautilus bearing arrangement solution from SKF SKF self-aligning bearing solution for wind turbines E2 bearings 6692 EN SKF Energy efficient deep groove ball bearings ReMan bearings 6697 EN Optimize your assets with SKF remanufacturing services 6857 EN Energy savers 6160 EN Electrically insulated bearings from SKF SKF Explorer bearings 6619 EN Why SKF? SKF Explorer four-point contact ball bearings 6234 EN Maximizing bearing performance SKF Seals SKF Services 6404 EN Large diameter seals 6575 EN SKF Economos seals product range SKF Maintenace products MP3000 EN SKF Maintenance product catalogue Product data sheets for SKF greases SKF WindCon 6822 EN Make the most of your maintenance resources 6825 EN SKF Engineering consultancy services Couplings for wind turbines 19

20 Seals Mechatronics Bearings and bearing units Services Lubrication Systems The Power of Knowledge Engineering Drawing on five areas of competence and application-specific expertise amassed over 100 years, SKF brings innovative solutions to OEMs and production facilities in every major industry worldwide. These five competence areas include bearings and units, seals, lubrication systems, mechatronics (combining mechanics and electronics into intelligent systems), and a wide range of services, from 3-D computer modelling to advanced condition monitoring and reliability and asset management systems. A global presence provides SKF customers uniform quality standards and universal product availability. This brochure was presented to you by: Center of Excellence for Renewable Energies: SKF Lubrication Systems Germany AG 2. Industriestrasse Hockenheim Germany Tel. +49 (0) Fax +49 (0) SKF, WINDCON and WINDLUB are registered trademarks of the SKF Group SKF Group 2009 The contents of this publication are the copyright of the publisher and may not be reproduced (even extracts) unless permission is granted. Every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication but no liability can be accepted for any loss or damage whether direct, indirect or consequential arising out of the use of the information contained herein. Certain images used under license from Shutterstock.com. PUB LS/S EN November EN skf.com/lubrication