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Wind power & Energy

  • Wind Power and Energy

    Optimising reliability, reducing maintenance and extending the service life of critical components in wind power generation.

     

    As the global demand for clean, sustainable energy grows, wind power has emerged as a critical force in the renewable energy sector. We provide high-performance sealing solutions that meet the rigorous demands of wind turbines and associated energy systems.

    Renewable energy systems, whether it be wind power or hydro power, need low friction sealing solutions that are reliable and efficient, providing longevity between set maintenance periods as accessibility is usually limited due to their locations.

    M Seals provides a range of low friction sealing solutions, utilising our vast array of HNBR, NBR, FPM, PTFE and internally lubricated polyurethane materials. A bespoke and standard seal range is available to suit the application requirements of hydraulic cylinders for turbine blade pitch and yaw control, along with sealing systems for gearboxes and braking systems.

    Large diameter rotary shaft seals can be designed and manufactured to suit all types of environmental conditions.

     

    Challenges in Wind Energy Applications

    Wind turbines operate in some of the harshest environments on earth – from offshore platforms battered by saltwater, to remote onshore sites exposed to temperature extremes and high mechanical loads. These conditions place immense stress on turbine components, making effective sealing essential to:

    • Prevent lubricant leakage
    • Protect against dust, dirt, and moisture ingress
    • Withstand wide temperature and pressure variations
    • Resist degradation from UV, ozone, and chemicals

  • Sealing Solutions for Wind Turbines

    From our experience of working with leading manufacturers of wind turbines, we have gained specific experience in the various sealing challenges in the nacelle. The main bearings of today’s wind turbines require large radial shaft seals with diameters of several metres and specially designed finger or garter spring systems.

    With this in mind, we have developed special shaft seals that can be retro fitted in the turbine without removing the shaft. We also have a range of materials to suit a large temperature range and that have good resistance to wear, ozone and UV rays.

    We offer sealing solutions for shaft sealing in the gearbox, as well as hydraulic seals in pitch, yaw control and brake systems, in a vast array of low friction PTFE and internally lubricated polyurethane materials in bespoke or standard ranges.

    We also offer on-site assistance with installation and troubleshooting as part of our service.

    We will work closely with you to gain a full understanding of your application needs before recommending the best sealing solution.

  • Case Study

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    Hydropower Unit Overhaul

    A customer initially contacted us to request a quote for replacing large diameter rotary shaft seals, specifically sizes 260x300x20 and 300x340x20. Further conversations revealed a problem related to rising water levels and the resulting increase in water pressure. This presented some challenges as the current rubber rotary shaft seals were only designed for a pressure of 0.5 bar and were installed back to back. Our solution was to replace the seal.

  • Seals for Wind Power Systems

    Shaft Seals Prevent oil or grease leakage and protect bearings and other internal components from dust, dirt, and moisture along rotating shafts.
    Hydraulic Seals Maintain high-pressure fluid containment and prevent leakage in hydraulic systems. Essential for the hydraulic actuators that change blade angle; also used in hydraulic cylinders that adjust nacelle orientation and in hydraulic brakes to stop or hold rotor position.
    O-Rings Provide a static or dynamic seal between two or more parts by compressing into a groove. Prevent fluid leaks in high-pressure systems, used in flanges, bolted joints, and covers and maintain airtight or watertight seals to protect sensitive components.
    Gaskets Seal between stationary components (static sealing) to prevent fluid or gas leakage. Gaskets seal between gearbox flanges and inspection covers, keep out dust, moisture, and salt spray in offshore turbines and ensure environmental sealing of sensitive electronics.
    Piston Seals Seal dynamic pressure in hydraulic cylinders by preventing fluid from passing around the piston. Found in hydraulic pitch control systems that adjust the angle of the blades and also used in brake systems that control rotor movement during maintenance or emergencies.
    Rod Seals Prevent hydraulic fluid from leaking out of a cylinder and protect the internal pressure. Used in hydraulic actuators for blade pitch and yaw control. Work in tandem with piston seals to maintain system pressure and minimise leakage.
    Wiper Seals Exclude contaminants like dust, dirt, and moisture from entering the hydraulic system. Installed on the outer edge of hydraulic cylinders in pitch and yaw systems. Protect rod seals and internal components from environmental contamination, which is critical for offshore turbines.
    Rotary Seals Seal rotating components while allowing rotation. Used in the main shaft where it enters the gearbox or generator, also present in yaw and pitch drive systems, especially if rotary actuators are used. Need to handle high speeds, misalignment, and high loads.
    PTFE Seals Offer low friction, high chemical resistance, and durability. Often used in dynamic applications. Common in high-performance rotary and piston seals, particularly in the gearbox and hydraulic systems. Their low wear rate and thermal resistance make them ideal for critical, high-cycle components.
    V-Rings Axial face seals that act as a secondary barrier against contaminants. Used as secondary seals for rotary shafts, often in the main shaft bearing. Protect primary seals and bearings from dirt, water, and oil splash, especially in exposed areas.
    Custom Engineered Seals Tailored solutions for unique turbine designs and environmental conditions, including split seals for ease of maintenance in confined or elevated spaces.

     

    Advanced Materials for Demanding Conditions

    Our sealing solutions are manufactured from a wide range of high-performance materials to ensure durability, flexibility, and chemical resistance:

     

    Custom Sealing Solutions

    Custom sealing solutions are essential for wind farms, where each installation can present unique environmental and engineering challenges, especially in offshore locations. Custom-designed solutions are tailored to fit specific geometries, load conditions, and environmental exposures, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Whether it's adapting to complex nacelle designs, accommodating large blade root diameters, or withstanding dynamic movement at tower joints, custom seals offer superior fit and functionality. These solutions also allow for the integration of advanced materials that meet exacting resistance requirements for saltwater, UV, temperature extremes and mechanical stress. When standard seals are not suitable or do not give the required efficiency, custom components can reduce maintenance intervals and enhance the reliability of critical systems.

     

    Proven Performance in Every Environment

    We have over 20 years' experience providing seals to the wind power and renewable energy industry, providing a range of low friction sealing solutions that are reliable and efficient, with longevity between set maintenance periods.

    Our seals are trusted by leading wind power OEMs and maintenance providers. Every product we deliver meets strict industry standards, including ISO 9001.

    Talk to one of our technical engineers today to learn more about how we can help you with your sealing needs for wind power and renewable energy applications.

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