Superconductive EcoSwing Takes On Full-Size Testing

Envision Energy aims to install a superconductive generator on one of its most advanced wind turbines.

The product named EcoSwing generator is designed for a +3 MW class direct drive turbine, and will provide enough electricity to power 1000 households.

Anders Rebsdorf, Head of Envision’s Global Innovation Centre, commented: “After years of research, superconductivity has finally matured to a level where it can be considered for testing and demonstration on a full-sized wind turbine. The EcoSwing DD generator will be one of the most ambitious superconductive systems in terms of torque density, and we are proud to spearhead this important milestone project.”

The key advantage of the EcoSwing generator is a weight saving of more than 40% compared to conventional direct drive generators. For the entire nacelle this results in 25% less weight, and of course proportionally less material usage. It also reduces rare-earth material reliance, a commodity of scarce supply and price fluctuations.

After thorough ground-based testing in a certified laboratory the EcoSwing generator is planned to operate for over one year on a large scale modern wind turbine in Denmark.