Stegmann - Absolute Encoders

Encoders for Wind Power Systems

Wind power systems must operate at near 100% availability. Hence quality and reliability are extremely important.

Variable-speed, pitch-controlled systems are the current state-of-the-art in wind energy system construction and are best suited to the harsh conditions in onshore and offshore operations.

SICK STEGMANN’s encoders for wind power systems are built on our competence, demonstrated by over ten years’ experience in the wind power industry wherein we have installed over 20,000 encoders in pitch-controlled systems.

In contrast to encoders with battery-buffered counters, SICK STEGMANN multi-turn encoders operate reliably in electrically noisy environments, whilst being maintenance-free and long lasting.

Opt for the proven SICK-STEGMANN solutions:

Rotor blade adjustment and gondola adaptation with absolute single-turn and multi-turn encoders

Absolute encoders generate data related to position, angle and speed, with a unique digital code allocated to each angular position.
The number of unique codes for each revolution determines the resolution capability. Since an absolute position is allocated to each unique code, a reference run is not required. This means that the current position value is available even after voltage failure.

In the case of multi-turn encoders, the multi-turn information is determined using gear stages with magnets attached.

The absolute position is mapped onto the magnet, by the unique structure, and thus is completely independent of the encoder’s voltage state.

With SSI, Profibus, CANopen and DeviceNet, all common interfaces are available for data transmission to the respective control system.

Measuring the rotor speed with incremental encoders

Incremental encoders generate data related to position, angle and speed using a number of lines on a code disc.

The number of lines per revolution determines the resolution capability. The respective position is determined by counting the pulses produced by scanning the lines from a defined reference point. Following power down, a reference run is required in order to determine the absolute position.

Watch the Wind Power Video by clicking on the Play Button below

The ATM60 absolute multi-turn encoder from SICK STEGMANN reliably provides the speed data required, even under harsh environmental conditions. In this rotary system for measuring distances, angles and positions, a sensor scans permanent magnet elements arranged to provide angular position information. The encoder’s multi-turn feature is achieved by several reduction gear units with additional magnets and sensors.

Using the zero set button the encoder can be comfortably set, in situ, to zero or a user-programmed value.

Magnetic scanning, a robust housing (IP67rating) and high shock and vibration resistance make the ATM60 ideal for use in wind energy systems in onshore and offshore operations.

Whether for wind direction adaptation via azimuth adjustment or for pitch adjustment, thousands of ATM60 encoders from
SICK-STEGMANN have been successfully operating in wind energy systems for many years.

Download our Encoders for Wind Power brochure