Balluff has introduced a new energy-saving power supply for use in wind energy equipment. The semi-potted device reportedly offers an efficiency rating of 93% and is designed for high shock and vibration loads. The unit is said to offer a long service life of nearly 20 years with a MTBF of 800,000 hours.
According to Balluf, the power supply is the first of its kind that can be connected directly to the generator’s voltage without need for an intermediate transformer. The unit also offers unique optical indicators which display the status and condition of the unit. Since it tracks dynamic loads, it can be operated continuously, even under high-load conditions, meaning power reserves of 30 to 50% are no longer needed, Balluf says.
Special sensors in combination with a microcontroller continuously monitor wear factors in the power supply such as temperature, overload, faults and other conditions. Internal evaluation of these parameters gives the user an overview of the status of the unit for use when implementing maintenance measures, which is designed to reduce the probability of system failure.
Colored LEDs in traffic light colours provide the user with continuous information about the current load level, the stress level, and the expected remaining lifetime.