Field Experiences Utilizing Electrical Signature Analysis to Detect Winding and Mechanical Problems in Wind Turbine Generators

Abstract

Electrical Signature Analysis (ESA), while not a new technology, has only recently been utilized in identifying and predicting winding failures in wind turbine generators. This novel application of existing technology has been very successful in identifying problems in several models of generators as well as other drive train issues. This paper will present a review of the basic technology utilized and will present the results from testing several hundred turbines including some with supporting documentation from physical inspections and/or predicted failures. This methodology, which can be trended, provides critical reliability information to help plan and prioritize preventative maintenance actions during low production times as well as periodic provide condition reporting on those turbines where continuous monitoring information is not available.