3 Types Of Electric Gear Motors Used In Wind Turbines

The three types of electric gear motors used in wind turbines include planetary gears, helical gears, and worm gear motors. Electric gear motors are mainly used for power transmission and positioning of turbine blades. Bauer GMC, a major distributor of gear motors, gear reducers, and other accessories in Mississauga, Ontario, explores these 3 types of gear motors used in wind turbines in this blog.

What Types Of Electric Gear Motors Are Used In Wind Turbines?

Planetary Gear Motors

Planetary gear motors used in wind turbines comprise a central sun gear, multiple gears orbiting the central gear, and an outer ring gear. In wind turbines, they are primarily used to deploy high-torque, slow-speed applications that are connected to the movement of the rotor. 

Helical Gear Motors

Helical gear motors feature angled teeth that are designed to mesh thoroughly for smooth power transfer. In the case of wind turbines, helical gear motors are used in intermediate and high-speed operations of the generator. This is a key part of wind turbines as it provides smooth and quiet transfer of power that can handle heavy loads with high efficiency.

Worm Gear Motors

Worm gear motors are known for their compact yet powerful design, where the two gears are meshed perpendicularly. For wind turbines, this type of electric gear motor provides the yaw drive to turn the nacelle of the turbine in the direction of the wind. It is also used to power the pitch mechanism that is responsible for rotating the blades.

Conclusion

In closing, all three types of gear motors serve wind turbines and contribute to the renewable energy sector in different ways.

Bauer GMC is a proud distributor of some of the best electric gear motors available in the market today. We also offer gear reducers and AC gear motors in our Mississauga facility. If you'd like to own brand new units or replace your existing ones, contact us today to learn more about our services.

FAQs:

Are gearboxes used in conjunction with gear motors in wind turbines?

Yes, gearboxes are used for heavy torque movements, and gear motors serve more for aiding in positioning.
 

What are yaw and pitch gear motors in wind turbines?

Yaw and pitch gear motors control the nacelle and turbine blades, respectively.