Wind turbine nacelle cooling systems: A review

Abstract

The thermal load in the wind turbine nacelle is increasing due to the higher dissipation of heat from the various components in the high unit capacity wind mill. With the motive to develop a sustainable and efficient windmill, research on low cost highly efficient wind turbine nacelle cooling systems has become particularly important. In this review, the prominent waste heat producing sources and the extensively used cooling systems are described. A detailed analysis of the advantages and limitations of each system and the use of various cooling fluids as cooling medium in wind turbine nacelle cooling systems is also discussed. Use of nanofluids as cooling medium in liquid cooling system is also highlighted as it produces a higher thermal performance enhancement. Hence, it is identified as a promising option for a cooling medium and future research.