Realistic tests on Schaeffler’s “Astraios”

With its realistic load simulation, Schaeffler’s proprietary large-size bearing test rig ASTRAIOS has been providing valuable results since 2011, which are used for the new development of bearing solutions and for the optimization of simulation and calculation models. Based on this unique long-term experience in testing rotor bearing supports for multi-megawatt wind turbines, we have now developed a robustness test, which represents the occurrences, loads, and stresses from 20 to 25 years of wind turbine operation in just a few months, while illustrating the specific dynamics of rotor bearing support loads at the same time. This means we are making a major contribution to shortening development times for wind turbines as well as making the design process more reliable and increasing the cost-effectiveness and safety of these turbines.

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