Technical reference
Generator and converter
The generator converts the rotor’s mechanical power into electricity; the converter matches it to the frequency and voltage of the grid. The arrangement used — DFIG, full-power converter or gearless direct drive — decides what to look at in the field.
General reference. Values, limits, intervals and torques vary by turbine type; the OEM documentation always governs.
Main parts
- DFIG: stator connected to the grid, rotor through a converter that carries only part of the power (often around a third)
- Full-power converter: all power passes through the converter
- Gearless direct drive: a large multi-pole ring generator turned directly by the rotor; all power through the converter
- Winding temperature sensors (usually PT100), bearings, cooling, slip rings and brushes (DFIG), encoder
Common faults and where to look first
- Winding temperature alarm: compare channels, verify the measuring chain, then cooling
- Brush wear, marks on the slip ring: brush length and pressure, ring surface, dust
- Converter overcurrent: match events to conditions, cooling, connections, grid events
Safety
The converter stores energy in its DC link and carries an arc-flash risk. Cabinets are never opened under load; apply LOTO, wait for the discharge time and verify zero voltage. Authorised personnel only.
Full version
Parts tables, maintenance checklist and diagnostic tools are in the Turkish version of this page.