Power resistors for wind turbines

As applications in wind power generating systems evolve, the need increases for power resistors that meet the stringent needs of various parts of turbine subsystems — for functions like braking and in-rush current protection. Tyco Electronics offers custom designed and manufactured resistors that suit customer requirements in the alternative energy space; for example, from an application in the pitch control in a turbine to the inverter in either the solar or wind market segment.

Power ratings range from 1 W to greater than 1 kW, with wire-wound, thick and thin film, foil, carbon and ceramic structures available. Tyco Electronics offers a variety of packaging options as well as special cases and configurations. Options on cooling systems, custom lead formations, matched resistance solutions, custom windings and foil technology in stamped or etched solutions are available. A variety of product insulations and coatings for a range of ceramic cores in rods, tubes or flat substrates are also offered.

The customisation and development program includes in-house product testing. The range of tests — which can be designed in conjunction with customer specifications — include cyclic-rated power and overload testing, adiabatic (single shot and frequency) testing, environmental, mechanical and repetitive pulse testing. Qualification testing is carried out and the product development stages are well documented.