Wind Energy - Hybrid Towers

Wind turbines operate by converting the kinetic energy from the wind into mechanical power, which is then converted into electricity. When the wind blows, it causes the turbine blades to rotate. The rotation of the blades turn a generator, producing electricity. This electricity is then either used immediately or stored in batteries for later use. Wind turbines typically operate automatically, adjusting the angle of the blades to maximize power output based on wind speed and direction. Regular maintenance and monitoring are necessary to ensure efficient operation and prevent breakdowns.

Since the early days of wind turbine installations, their capacity has increased dramatically with large turbines being up to 5.6mW. These turbines incorporate much larger rotor blade lengths (100m +) which in turn require much higher towers. By reaching higher elevations in more remote areas, wind turbines can access stronger wind resources that conventional turbines cannot reach, leading to more consistent and reliable energy generation.

These towers are now reaching heights more than 160m and with increasing turbine capacities being explored the need for higher towers will be even greater.  

The prestressed concrete–steel hybrid wind turbine tower, characterized by replacing the lower part of the traditional full-height steel tube wind turbine tower with a prestressed concrete segment, provides an alternative solution to transport difficulties and risks associated with traditional steel towers in remote areas.

Silvery Dragon Prestressed materials Co Ltd can designed and manufacture prestressed strand and anchorage systems for concrete-steel hybrid towers that support wind turbines. For projects requiring a concrete-steel hybrid tower with excessive height the system connects the concrete segment sections to the bearing platform at the base, stress is applied to deliver stability to the structure against the external forces of vibration and wind load from the turbine.

The strand size can vary from 12.7mm, 15.2mm and 15.7mm and is coated in an HDPE coating to prevent corrosion.

Silvery Dragon can also provide installation services if required.