In recent years, due to faulty constructions, mistakes in the production of components and the choice of materials, there has been an increase in the amount of damage to bearings and gears in many types of wind turbines. These basic faults often lead to the entire plant experiencing excessively long downtimes.

To prevent this problem, researchers of the cooperative project BiSWind are developing a component-integrated sensor technology for power transmission elements in wind farms. This enables reliable measurement data to be collected so that the construction, production and choice of materials can be adequately tailored to the specific needs and loads of wind turbines.

So far, limited accessibility to transmission components, such as shafts, bearings and gearwheels, has made it nearly impossible to record load cycles. This is why the research partners are seeking to develop a self-sufficient measuring system for the transmission components that permits the ongoing recording of torque, component temperature, vibrations and rotational speed. To facilitate the later use of the sensors offshore or at high altitudes, they must be able to meet high demands, including being resistant to moisture and aggressive substances such as coolants and lubricants.

The project is being funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) until November 2018.