Solutions
Solutions
Solutions
Active Pitch Control (APC)
Rotates the blades to ensure the most efficient and safe rotation velocity
Active pitch control systems are mechanisms used in wind turbines to dynamically adjust the angle (pitch) of the blades relative to the incoming wind. By controlling the blade pitch, the aerodynamic performance of the rotor can be optimised across varying wind conditions, balancing energy capture, load mitigation, and structural safety.
In large-scale wind turbines, active pitch control has become the dominant method for power regulation. By continuously rotating the blades around their longitudinal axis, the control system maintains an optimal angle of attack, maximising power at low to medium wind speeds and reducing loads or shutting down the turbine at very high wind speeds. For small-scale wind turbines, however, active pitch control is far less common. Most micro turbines use fixed-pitch blades or simpler passive control systems (such as furling or mechanical stall). In turbulent or urban environments where small turbines often operate, active pitch control can provide significant advantages: Increased efficiency, Stall prevention, Overspeed protection, Extended lifespan. Active pitch control systems consist of three main components:
Sensors – Measure wind speed, rotor speed, and sometimes blade loading.
Controller – A control algorithm decides the required blade angle.
Actuators – Electric motors or hydraulic systems physically rotate the blades around their axis.
Active pitch control systems are mechanisms used in wind turbines to dynamically adjust the angle (pitch) of the blades relative to the incoming wind. By controlling the blade pitch, the aerodynamic performance of the rotor can be optimised across varying wind conditions, balancing energy capture, load mitigation, and structural safety.
In large-scale wind turbines, active pitch control has become the dominant method for power regulation. By continuously rotating the blades around their longitudinal axis, the control system maintains an optimal angle of attack, maximising power at low to medium wind speeds and reducing loads or shutting down the turbine at very high wind speeds. For small-scale wind turbines, however, active pitch control is far less common. Most micro turbines use fixed-pitch blades or simpler passive control systems (such as furling or mechanical stall). In turbulent or urban environments where small turbines often operate, active pitch control can provide significant advantages: Increased efficiency, Stall prevention, Overspeed protection, Extended lifespan. Active pitch control systems consist of three main components:
Sensors – Measure wind speed, rotor speed, and sometimes blade loading.
Controller – A control algorithm decides the required blade angle.
Actuators – Electric motors or hydraulic systems physically rotate the blades around their axis.
