Conference paper
Influence of Rare Earth Element Supply on Future Offshore Wind Turbine Generators
Electric Components, Department of Electrical Engineering, Technical University of Denmark1
Department of Electrical Engineering, Technical University of Denmark2
Nano-Microstructures in Materials, Materials Research Division, Risø National Laboratory for Sustainable Energy, Technical University of Denmark3
Materials Research Division, Risø National Laboratory for Sustainable Energy, Technical University of Denmark4
Risø National Laboratory for Sustainable Energy, Technical University of Denmark5
Center for Electric Power and Energy, Centers, Technical University of Denmark6
Rare-earth elements have become very valuable to many industries, including the renewable energy industry. As their usage has spread, their demand has increased dramatically. At present, the vast majority of rare earth elements are mined in China. China is also the world‟s leading consumer of rare earth material, and there are indications that Chinese rare earth exports will decrease in the near future as China seeks to maintain a sufficient supply of these materials.
The magnetic properties of some particular rare-earth elements have made them very useful in producing high power density electrical machines. Such machines are utilized in applications such as electric cars, and wind turbines. This paper will examine the rare earth supply issue, in order to comment on its relevance to the wind turbine industry.
The wind turbine topologies which are currently being used are compared, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages in serving as long term solutions for offshore wind farms. Finally, a direct drive induction generator and a high temperature superconducting generator topology, which respectively are not and very little dependent on rare earth elements, are presented as candidates for use in future offshore wind turbines.
Language: | English |
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Publisher: | Risø National Laboratory for Sustainable Energy |
Year: | 2011 |
Pages: | 227-237 |
Proceedings: | Risø International Energy Conference 2011 |
Series: | Denmark. Forskningscenter Risoe. Risoe-r |
ISBN: | 8755039030 and 9788755039032 |
ISSN: | 13992236 and 01062840 |
Types: | Conference paper |
ORCIDs: | Abrahamsen, Asger Bech |