The SSD Drives Division of Parker Hannifin is in the process of providing power conversion systems and generators to Green Energy Technologies for their recently launched WindCube.  This WindCube is a 60kW rooftop wind turbine that was designed for on-site power generation by commercial and industrial power users in urban and suburban locations.  The turbine, which has the aim of capturing and amplifying the wind, fills a previously unmet need for wind turbines that can be placed into service in a very small footprint and take advantage of the nation’s net metering laws.  The WindCube turbine manufactured by Green Energy Technologies is available as a single (60kW) or dual (120kW) system and in rooftop or tower-mounted design.  The product is modular to satisfy a customer’s electrical requirements.  It is interesting to note that it produces the same amount of energy in a 22’x22’x12’ framework as a traditional turbine with blades 50 feet in diameter.

The control system as provided by Parker includes a main AC890 grid-tie inverter and a smaller AC890 motor drive for the yaw mechanism.  Ethernet is used to allow both devices to communicate with an operator-friendly touch-screen.  All of the above is mounted and wired in a control cabinet to allow easy installation at the site.  Apart from the electronics, Parker also provides the PMAC generator and a servo motor for the yaw mechanism and pre-configured cable sets.

Parker Hannifin has committed to develop innovative solutions related to sustainable energy solutions, and the SSD Drives Division has applied and adapted over 30 years of experience in industrial drive technology to this rapidly growing market.  Due to a proven control algorithm and robust IGBT power platform, the AC890 series offers reliability and ease of use with both induction and permanent magnet AC generators, as well as performing as a motor drive.  Apart from wind energy recovery, Parker is actively involved with other sustainable technologies such as solar power, ocean wave power, hybrid and electric vehicles, and battery energy storage systems.

Green Energy Technologies is the manufacturer of the WindCube, a unique wind turbine designed specifically for commercial and industrial power users located in urban and suburban settings.  WindCube is a registered trademark of Green Energy Technologies.