Vaisala has launched an ultrasonic wind sensor, designed for optimized wind turbine and maritime performance.
Ultrasonic wind technology
Engineered to withstand the challenges and wide range of conditions in both wind energy and maritime applications, the robust Vaisala Ultrasonic Wind Sensor WM80 brings “accurate wind information” to wind turbine control, offshore vessel dynamic positioning and navigation systems, enhancing performance and safety.
Vaisala’s WindCap sensor technology uses three transducers, capturing 50% more wind signal compared to conventional ultrasonic technologies, to maintain measurement accuracy and reliability. The rugged, robust technology withstands extreme conditions while its compact design enables it to be installed in tight spaces. The fully heated anemometer ensures stable performance, even in arctic environments.
The modular sensor design, together with the easy-to-use alignment tools, ensures that the sensor is aligned. Its wind measurements also help maritime vessels improve dynamic positioning and navigational safety.
Dependable data
The Vaisala WM80 uses a novel reflector design (patent pending) that focuses the ultrasonic signal to the transducers and maintains focus despite changing wind speeds up to 90m/s. This ensures uninterrupted and precise wind speed and direction measurements, even in harsh onshore and offshore environments.
Developed specifically for difficult conditions – extreme heat, icing conditions, high winds, precipitation, vibration and shock – the WM80 incorporates corrosion-resistant, anodized marine-grade aluminum in its compact form-factor.
Additionally, the sensor’s design, with a push-pull connector and alignment tools, is intended to simplify setup, reducing installation time and providing a stable, secure connection. With no moving parts and no need for calibration, the sensor also remains free from the limitations of mechanical wind sensors, facilitating long-term, hassle-free operation.
“Designed to enhance both safety and performance, our new ultrasonic wind sensor provides real-time wind information, helping to maximize operational windows and strengthen efficiencies,” said Mikko Nikkanen, head of maritime, weather and environment at Vaisala.
“In dynamic positioning applications – like stabilizing vessels during crew transfers or lifting operations – dependable wind data reduces operational risks and improves safety. For navigation, accurate and continuous wind data supports decision making for potential route adjustments.”
“Leaning on insights from multiple decades of experience in professional wind measurement and wind turbine technology, we understand the challenges of meeting the demanding conditions of modern wind farms,” said Matthieu Boquet, head of wind operations at Vaisala.
“This innovative, robust and compact sensor delivers highly reliable data for turbine control, helping to secure maximum power production and seamless operations. Further value creation and cost reduction can be gained when used in combination with a Nacelle-mounted lidar.”
In related news, Vaisala recently unveiled new multi-GNSS support and message authentication features designed to enhance the operational efficiency, data availability and trustworthiness of radiosonde soundings. Click here to read the full story.