Wind Turbine Yaw Bearing and/or Yaw Drive System Testing

Yaw bearings and yaw drive systems support the process of orienting the wind turbine rotor toward the wind. Their related mechanical tests typically involve simulating nacelle loading throgh the yaw bearing into the tower in up to six degrees of freedom (Fx, Fy, Fz, Mz, My, Mz). Tests are used for characterizing yaw bearing and drive system stiffness and strength, evaluating breakaway and drive friction properties, and determining bearing fatigue strength. These tests can also be used to validate FEM models.

MTS is the world’s premier test and simulation solutions provider. We are uniquely qualified to help you accurately simulate real-world yaw bearing loading and drive system service environments in your test lab. Leveraging decades of expertise and technology leadership in other industries such as aerospace and civil engineering, we know how to precisely apply extremely high forces and moments to massive test specimens across multiple axes. Key MTS system capabilities include:

• Flexible, user-friendly software for efficient test design and modification
• Digital controllers with high channel density, high capacity, and superior configurability
• Clean, quiet and highly reliable hydraulic power units
• Durable and energy-efficient hydraulic actuators designed specifically for testing
• Non-torque-loading (NTL) devices
• Extensive facilities planning to ensure sound logistical decisions your program outset