The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) awarded a US$ 1.37 million contract for the design and fabrication of a 5.8MW wind turbine gearbox for a new dynamometer at its National Wind Technology Center (NWTC) to Brad Foote Gear Works, Inc., a subsidiary of Broadwind Energy, Inc.
Dynamometers enable industry and testing agencies to verify the performance and reliability of wind turbine drivetrain prototypes and commercial machines. Designs are tested by simulating field conditions in a laboratory environment. The schedule calls for delivery of the gearbox to the NWTC in the fall of 2011. This subcontract is funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Development and construction of the upgraded 5 MW (nominal) dynamometer facility at the NWTC is a multi-year project that began in fiscal year 2009, with a scheduled completion in the spring of 2012.
Dynamometers enable industry and testing agencies to verify the performance and reliability of wind turbine drivetrain prototypes and commercial machines. Designs are tested by simulating field conditions in a laboratory environment. The schedule calls for delivery of the gearbox to the NWTC in the fall of 2011. This subcontract is funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Development and construction of the upgraded 5 MW (nominal) dynamometer facility at the NWTC is a multi-year project that began in fiscal year 2009, with a scheduled completion in the spring of 2012.
