Offshore wind farm in harsh environment

Case Study

SEPARABLE CONNECTORS FOR MV NETWORKS

We customized switchgear connectors meet the challenges of one of the world’s largest offshore wind farms.

The Single Partner Advantage

TE was able to offer a complete switchgear connect solution to empower one of the world´s largest offshore wind farms, thanks to its broad screened separable connectors portfolio, which made the project less challenging and more efficient. 

A consortium of three world-leading renewable energy companies initiated the construction of one of the world´s largest offshore wind farms. With an area of approximately 100 km², the wind farm would supply power for nearly half a million of homes a year and decrease significantly the CO₂ emissions in the region.

For this project, the engineers in charge of the energy supply structure requested screened separable connectors that would enable them to connect large cross-section cables in their unique and very compact switchgears. Due to the challenging environmental conditions of the offshore wind farm, they were looking for connectors that could withstand extreme temperatures in an environment characterized by its high humidity and salinity.

A customized approach was needed to address this technical challenge and ensure the reliable electrical performance of the offshore wind farm. 

1500

Screened separable connectors delivered

170

Switchgears provided with Raychem screened separable connectors RSTI

460k

Homes supplied in electricity by this wind farm each year

Based on more than 60 years of experience, TE’s experts offered a complete package of customized switchgear connect solutions that meets the unique technical requirements of the wind farm:

  • RSTI Screened Separable base and coupling connectors
  • RSTI Screened Separable connectors with surge arrestors
  • RSTI Dead End Plugs designed to face environmental challenges during turbine installation

TE´s Raychem RSTI Screened Separable Connectors adapted easily to the customer’s cable type and size. Their compact design and the flexibility of their silicone components facilitated the installation of the connectors, reducing installation time and errors.

"TE´s customized switchgear connectors, along with TE´s high-level technical support and training provide the ideal solution for customer requirements."

TE´s experts identified the right solution and reduced project management time with end-to-end customer service, including local language support, on-site training and installation supervision.

By successfully completing another project in offshore environments, TE reinforced its role as a key provider of switchgear connect solutions for the renewable energy market.