The importance of vibration measurements can overlap for OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and wind turbine owners, but there are also some differences in their perspectives and priorities. Factors such as contractual agreements, business objectives, and the life stage of the wind turbines influence these interests. In this article, we describe the different interests and why it is important for asset managers, operators, and wind turbine operators to employ independent vibration expertise in addition to the OEM’s vibration data for optimizing wind turbine availability and maintenance efficiency.
Data density
For OEMs, it is crucial to ensure that the wind turbines they produce are of high quality and reliable. Vibration measurements during the development phase and throughout the warranty period enable them to detect and address potential problems before they occur, which can lead to cost savings and the preservation of their reputation. For these purposes, OEMs often suffice with a relatively low data density.
However, as an asset manager, operator, or operator of wind turbines, you need a much higher data density. In a previous article (Vibration monitoring optimizes wind turbine availability and maintenance efficiency) we already described that asset managers, operators, and operators of wind turbines have two main goals: 1) optimizing the availability of wind turbines, and 2) executing as cost-efficient a maintenance strategy as possible. For these two goals, a high data density is necessary so that vibration analysts can dig deeper into the data and detect developing problems at an earlier stage.
Data availability
Not all wind turbine OEMs are equally enthusiastic about releasing vibration data, and from the perspective of OEMs, it is somewhat understandable to be reluctant to share vibration data. After all, this could potentially release sensitive information about the performance and designs of their turbines.
Without questioning the sincerity of OEMs, it is advisable for asset managers, operators, or operators of wind turbines to own their data with which brand-independent vibration analysis can be done. In a previous article, we already described what costs can be avoided with vibration monitoring and for that reason, it is essential to have control over these important machine insights yourself.
Data interpretation
Finally, there can also be a difference in how vibration data is interpreted. From the perspectives and priorities of an OEM, the results of vibration analysis may be assessed differently than from the perspectives and priorities of an asset manager, operator, or operator of wind turbines. The latter group is likely to be more critical due to their operational objectives. From a data interpretation perspective, it is therefore also advisable for asset managers, operators, or operators of wind turbines to own their data with which brand-independent vibration analysis can be done.
Vibration analysis services for wind turbines
Istec offers vibration analysis services for wind farms, providing insights into the condition of wind turbines. With Europe’s largest in-house team of highly certified vibration specialists, we support managers (operators) and owners of wind farms in their mission to operate their wind farms at optimal performance levels.
