What is Inside a Nacelle?

The nacelle is the housing located at the top of the wind turbine tower that contains all the key components needed to operate the turbine. Some of the major components housed inside a typical horizontal axis wind turbine nacelle include:

Gearbox

The gearbox is used to increase the slow rotational speed of the Wind Turbine Nacelle blades into a faster rotational speed that is required to drive the generator at maximum efficiency. Modern multi-megawatt turbines can havegear ratios of 80:1 or higher. The gearbox transforms the low blade rotation of 10-25 rpm to the higher shaft speed of 1000-1800 rpm required by the generator.

Generator

The generator housed inside the nacelle is what converts the mechanical energy of the rotating shaft into electrical energy. Most utility-scale turbines use an induction generator or permanent magnet synchronous generator that can produce voltages up to 690V which is then stepped up further by transformers located either inside or outside the nacelle.

Control System

An electronic control system is used to operate, monitor and protect the turbine. Sensors measure parameters like wind speed, shaft rotation speed, temperatures, voltages etc. A computerized control system then ensures optimal converter and generator operation, as well as automatic shutdown under unsafe conditions.

Nacelle Cover

A durable nacelle cover protects the internal components from weather elements like rain, snow, ice and heat. Fiberglass or sheet metal covers are commonly used with sound insulation and openings for maintenance access.

Braking System

The braking system typically uses electromagnets or friction pads to slow down or stop the rotor for maintenance or during faults. Aerodynamic braking using pitch control of blades may also be employed. An emergency backup braking system is often installed for safety.

Cooling System

Active cooling using fans, blowers, heat exchangers etc. is required inside the nacelle to dissipate heat from the gearbox, generator and other electrical components under continuous high power operation. Closed loop water or air cooling circuits are commonly used.

Hydraulic System

Turbines with variable speed generators and pitch-regulated rotors require a hydraulic system controlled by the turbine controller to operate motors, cylinders and actuators which adjust blade pitch angle and yaw the nacelle.

Electrical Cabling

Massive electrical cabling inside the wind turbine nacelle transmits the medium voltage (690V) power from the generator to the external step-up transformer located on a platform behind the nacelle. Communication and control wiring also routes sensor and control signals.

Condition Monitoring Systems

Sophisticated sensors and systems for continuous vibration, acoustic emission, oil debris and thermal monitoring are installed to detect component wear or faults at early stages to enable predictive maintenance.

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