China’s first 3MW wind turbine gearbox, developed by Dalian Huarui and Romax Technology, has successfully passed stringent nacelle testing and is currently being installed as part of the Sinovel 3MW turbine in China’s first offshore wind farm off the coast of Shanghai.
Testing for the gearbox was successfully completed in February, and it passed all required nacelle tests to prove its suitability for use in the Sinovel 3MW turbine, the largest wind turbine to be produced in China. To mark the importance of this achievement for the Chinese wind energy industry, testing was witnessed by Vice Director of National Development and Reform Commission and Head of National Energy Administration, Mr. Zhang Guobao, and Deputy Mayor of Dalian City, Xiao Shengfeng.
Following testing the gearbox, which was designed by Romax and manufactured by Dalian Huarui Co. Ltd, is now being installed at the Shanghai East Sea Wind farm. Operated by Shanghai East Sea Electric Limited and a key national renewable energy project, it will use 34 units of the Sinovel 3MW wind turbines.
The joint project began in December 2007, and the detailed design was finalized by Romax in June 2008, with Dalian Huarui producing the first prototype in December 2008. Throughout the duration of the 15-month long project both companies worked together closely, visiting head offices in the UK and China to conduct intensive technical discussion. The gearbox is now at the final stage of design assessment from Germanischer Lloyd, the leading certification body in wind energy.
Romax provided full technical support, including concept design for the gearbox, detailed design and optimisation, technology training, prototyping and test support, as well as certification support. In turn, Dalian Huarui provided its expertise in the manufacturing and testing of the prototype. Romax’s own manufacturing experts also conducted a full audit of Dalian Huarui’s manufacturing site and offered advice on a wide range of manufacturing issues such as heat treatment and materials. To learn more go to [www.dhidcw.com] or [www.romaxtech.com].
