THE CLEVER DRIVE TRAIN >>> For a solid design foundation, W2E uses the innovative concept of a compact patented drive train, LARUS Compact®. The system included a moment bearing, a shaft coupling and a main gearbox that is mounted without bending moment on the machine frame in its centre of gravity by means of an annular torque support. The torque is transferred through replaceable elastomer elements.

This drive train concept integrates components which have been used successfully for years in mechanical engineering and wind turbine construction. The operation of the wind turbine becomes safer and technically available.

Operation is easier on the main gearbox, which is frequently a source of failure in other wind turbine developments:

• The drive train transmits only torque into the main gearbox.
• No longitudinal or transverse forces act upon the input bearing of the main gearbox.
• Movements of the main gearbox in case of extreme loads and alternating moments are reduced.
• Loads resulting from rotational movements are fed evenly into the machine frame.
• The drive train is uncoupled from the machine frame, which eliminates noise.
• Overall dimensions and weights of the drive train and the nacelle are reduced.
• There is convenient, safe access to the hub from the nacelle, regardless of the weather. 

The reduced loads on the main gearbox lead to a longer life expectancy for the components. This means higher availability, lower service costs and reduced insurance premiums. LARUS Compact® was also developed to ensure access to all subsystems of the drive train structure. Thus we were able to incorporate what operators demanded even years ago: the replacement of components without the high cost of complete disassembly.

Technical details >>>The drive train contains a grip and torque bearing to absorb the forces and moments affecting the rotor. The bearing is directly connected with the machine carrier via which the rotor moments and forces are deflected into the tower structure. The rotor torque is transmitted to the drive shaft of the main gearbox via a shaft coupling connected with the main gearbox via a sound-insulated interlocking bolt mounting.

The torques originating from the rotor are deflected into the machine carrier structure via an annular torque support and the elastomer bearings arranged around the entire circumference of the gearbox. The connection between the main gearbox and the generator is accomplished via a universal joint with overload protection.

The main gearbox is designed as two-stage planetary gears with a spur wheel stage. It is cooled with an oil/water cooling cycle  and a water/air cooling cycle with stepped cooling capacity. The main gearbox bearings and tooth meshings are continuously supplied with splash oil by means of a mechanical oil pump that is independent of rotational direction and via an intermediate gearbox. For peak loads, an electrically powered oil pump is added.