This research hub will focus on the development of next-generation offshore wind powertrains, optimising their operation, reliability and performance.
Future Technologies For Larger Turbines
With the University of Sheffield onboard as the Hub’s academic partner, the Powertrain Research Hub will support the development of future technologies for larger turbines. The Hub’s key objectives are:
Reliability improvement and advanced test methodologies
Advanced health condition monitoring and prognostic technologies
Development of next-generation powertrain components for larger turbines.
The University is world-renowned for its expertise in electrical machines, power electronics, controls and energy conversion and storage, and will contribute a minimum of £1.7m over five years. This complements £700k funding from the Catapult, with the collective contributions supporting 12 PhDs, a number of Postdoctoral Research Associates, and access to a comprehensive range of world-leading powertrain testing facilities.
The Catapult already has a strong track record in powertrain testing, research and development and recently signed a five-year collaboration agreement with GE Renewable Energy to advance next generation turbine technologies including the 12MW Haliade-X, the world’s most powerful wind turbine.
