Wind Turbine Wall Element Fire Control Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wind turbines face challenges in effectively controlling fires due to their large dimensions and the chimney effect of their towers, which complicates heat dissipation and fire suppression.
Innovation Solution
A wall element for wind turbines comprising a heat-resistant base material with holes for airflow and a fire control layer that melts and clogs the holes in case of a fire, thereby suppressing oxygen and heat exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If holes are provided in the wall to allow air flowing through for heat dissipation, then heat dissipation efficiency is improved, but fire control capability deteriorates due to oxygen supply and chimney effect
Solution Approach 1:
The fire control layer transitions from a static open-state allowing airflow to a dynamic closed-state when exposed to fire temperatures. The layer melts and deforms under thermal exposure, dynamically changing the permeability of the wall from high (open holes) to low (clogged holes), thereby adapting the fire safety performance based on thermal conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical state and properties of the fire control layer change in response to temperature parameters. At normal temperatures, the layer maintains an open configuration allowing airflow. When exposed to fire temperatures, the layer undergoes phase change or deformation, altering its physical parameters to block the holes and prevent fire spread.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a fire control layer is added to clog holes in case of fire, then fire control capability is improved, but air exchange capability deteriorates during normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The fire control layer is designed to be dynamic rather than static, remaining open during normal operation to allow air exchange and only closing when triggered by fire conditions. This dynamic behavior ensures that the layer does not permanently obstruct airflow while providing fire protection when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The fire control function is extracted as a separate, removable layer distinct from the main wall structure. This allows the fire control layer to be positioned optimally for fire protection while maintaining the wall's primary air exchange function during normal operation. The layer can be strategically placed to minimize impact on normal airflow while maximizing fire blocking capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution efficiently controls fires by reducing oxygen supply and heat exchange, preventing the spread of flames and minimizing damage to the wind turbine.
Implementation Method 1
the fire control layer is configured to melt and to clog the holes in case of fire
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
A wall element configured to provide fire control in a wind turbine, the wall element comprising: • a heat-resistant base material comprising a plurality of holes configured to allow air flowing through, • a fire control layer arranged in a vicinity of the holes, wherein the layer is arranged such that it does not prevent air from flowing through the holes, • wherein the fire control layer is configured to melt and to clog the holes in case of fire.