Windmill Failures
Nearly 120 wind turbines catch fire each year, according to a research -
ten times the number reported by the industry.
The researchers claim
that out of 200,000 turbines around the world, 117 fires take place
annually - far more than what is reported by wind farm companies.
Fire has a huge financial impact on the industry; Each wind turbine
costs more than £2 million and
generates an estimated income of more
than £500,000 per year. Any loss or downtime of these valuable assets
makes the industry less viable and productive.
Fires are a problem for the industry, impacting on energy production,
economic output and emitting toxic fumes, this could cast a shadow over
the industry’s green credentials.
Wind turbines catch fire because
highly flammable materials such as hydraulic oil and plastics are in
close proximity to machinery and electrical wires. These can ignite a
fire if they overheat or are faulty. Lots of oxygen, in the form of high
winds, can quickly fan a fire inside a turbine.
Electrical World Team
