HIGH SPEED BEARING EXCHANGES

Task Description

Stowen were tasked to complete the exchange of High-speed bearings located on Siemens 3.6Mw Offshore Wind Turbines. The works were completed within an existing adhoc framework agreement with SSE Greater Gabbard

Authorisation – Site AT

Prior to any works Stowen had to supply fully authorised technicians, with the ability to work under an array of AWP’s. In order to complete this the AT requires to sit a panel in front of the client engineering manager and HSE representative to establish complete competency and knowledge of the system.

Preparation for Works

Prior to works commencing Stowen held a kick-off meeting together with the Stowen AT & Siemens trained senior mechanic to establish asafe method of work. This included RAMS review, reviewing of tool list and calibration / certification requirements. Alongside this the operatives OSEM profiles were created with necessary certification & qualifications to perform the works.

Exchanging The High-Speed Bearing.

To enable the exchange, The AT is required to install a variety of isolations following an approved written procedure to achieve safety from the system. The high-speed shaft is then stripped back to the bearing by the AT and senior mechanic. This preparation then enables a specialist technician to exchange the bearing.

Testing the System

Once the exchange has taken place the AT and senior mechanic rebuild the high-speed shaft alongside all safety casings. Following this test runs will then be undertaken to ensure that everything is back in working order and that the WTG is able to generate energy safely.

Lessons Learnt

Once everything is signed of and complete Stowen always perform a lesson’s learnt meeting which is conducted to pick up on everything that went well and also anything we have learnt from the project that we can implement on the following exchanges, this is extremely important part of the process as it encourages continual development with everything we do.

Did You Know?

The exchange of High-Speed Bearings can be considered as a planned preventative maintenance following the monitor of oil samples, most owners now plan this exchange in advance to reduce the likelihood of there assets underperforming and/or failing during service, increasing performance.

Want to Know More?

For more information on how Stowen can support your wind farm on the exchange of Major components.