Alstom and Converteam are collaborating on a direct-drive permanent magnet generator (PMG) for a wind turbine. As a first step, Converteam will equip Alstom's two 6 MW offshore wind turbine prototypes that are expected to be installed onshore and offshore in Europe this winter and in 2012.
Alstom's next-generation 6 MW turbine features its Pure Torque technology, which protects and improves generator performance by diverting unwanted stresses from the wind safely to the turbine's tower, according to the company.
Converteam will supply Alstom with its advanced high density direct-drive PMG, which is a more compact and lightweight design compared to earlier generation direct-drive systems, according to the company.
Alstom's turbine has been developed for the wind conditions encountered in most offshore locations around the world. Series production is expected to begin in 2014.
In related news, Alstom will be collaborating with Belgian wind farm developer Belwind in order to demonstrate its 6 MW wind turbine as part of a 40 MW demonstration project in Belgium.
The project, which is seeking European Union funding under the NER300 scheme, would be developed from 2012 to 2015 at Phase II of the Belwind wind farm, located on the Bligh Bank on the Belgian continental shelf.
SOURCE: Alstom
