Special Applications, Offshore
Specially equipped and protected
Siemens Wind Power pioneered the offshore installation of wind turbines with the world’s first offshore wind farm at Vindeby, Denmark, installed in 1991. Later notable projects include the Middelgrunden offshore wind farm outside Copenhagen and the world’s largest offshore wind farm at Nysted in the Baltic.
All Siemens offshore turbines share the following features:
- Corrosion protection
All external turbine components are painted with offshore-grade painting systems that effectively minimize any corrosion caused by salty air and water. The nacelle and tower are fully enclosed, and climate control including dehumidifiers constantly maintain the internal humidity below the 60 percent corrosion threshold.
- Cooling systems
Cooling is carried out with air-to-air heat exchangers. Ambient air is not circulated through the nacelle or tower but is limited to flow through the external part of the heat exchangers, and as a consequence, the internal climate can remain controlled.
- Safety
The lightning protection system minimizes the risk of damage from lightning strikes that occur frequently in some locations offshore. The turbines are normally fitted with navigational lights and aerial warning lights meeting the relevant safety standards. Rescue equipment is provided at foundation level.