As the UK moves towards greener energy and achieving net zero, and subsequently Renewable Energy becomes an even more integral part of the global energy infrastructure, 4MS Network Solutions have become actively involved in the Offshore Wind sector. With a wealth of experience and proven track record in the established Oil and Gas sector, 4MS’ transition to Offshore Wind brings to the market the latest, smartest Communications solutions to everyday challenges, from CCTV, Wifi, PAGA, UHF and VHF radio systems to Satellite and Marine safety systems. Let’s explore the capabilities of IoT technology and how its deployment can improve the operations of turbines and facilitate greater efficiency.
Turbines are often recognised for their complexities, made up of up to 1000 sensors, actuators, integrating strain gauges, bearing monitors and power conditioning technology, all of which cooperate to control blade speed and power generation. This is where intelligent monitoring plays a critical role in ensuring that everything is performing as it should.
So, where does IoT come in?
IoT is an interconnection via physical objects that are embedded with sensors, processing ability, software, and other technologies to connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the Internet. It allows the extension of connectivity to non-traditional Internet-enabled objects to remotely control and monitor them. IoT plays a key role in creating a more sustainable future, from sensors extending product lifecycles to IoT-enabled utility grids for renewable resource management.
Due to the remote nature of Offshore Windfarms deployed in unmanned locations with limited physical security, the need for real time information regarding turbine operation and site conditions is critical. IoT can be integrated into the infrastructure of an Offshore Windfarm to monitor and regulate changes in activity, identifying scenes of increased risk and compromised safety. With the ability to scale across hundreds of sites and thousands of turbines, IoT technology can be deployed to schedule repair and maintenance activities or improve incident management and emergency response efforts to a significant scale whilst alleviating downtime and improving efficiency.
One of the primary communication requirements of a windfarm is to ensure a daily 24-hour unbroken operation from each turbine’s SCADA system. It is essential that the control and data gathered are constantly streamed to and from the fields operating base. To support these operations, 4MS have a highly experienced network engineering team whose knowledge in this area is invaluable in the integration of a reliable IoT system and network for the SCADA system.
With our in-depth sector experience and Cisco Premier partner certification, 4MS is uniquely positioned to deliver IoT solutions for customers in the Renewable Energy industry. Through consulting, survey, design, procurement, implementation, testing and 24/7/365 support services, we simplify the whole conversation around offshore and vessel-based monitoring, connectivity and digital transformation. We can also offer proof of concepts, giving you certainty about your move into IoT.
Discover what we can do for your organisation. Get in touch today at info@4msnetworks.co.uk.