ENERCON is progressing with its test campaign for the new E-175 EP5 E2 wind turbines, marking a significant step toward their market launch. The company has confirmed that preparations are well underway for the delivery of essential components to the prototype construction site in Germany.
Last week, the generator for the E2 wind turbine was successfully powered for the first time, according to Renke de Buhr, Project Engineer at ENERCON’s Research and Development (R&D) team in Aurich. This achievement is a key milestone in ENERCON’s prototype testing program. De Buhr noted, “The test campaign is a crucial part of our prototype program and a prerequisite for delivering ENERCON’s high-quality, series-produced products to our customers.”
Key Features of the E-175 EP5 E2
The E-175 EP5 E2 is an enhanced version of ENERCON’s flagship E-175 EP5 model. It features a newly developed generator with a rated output of 7.0 MW. Designed for efficient logistics and installation, the generator can be split into two parts. Manufactured at ENERCON’s Centre of Excellence Generator in Magdeburg, the prototype underwent installation at the company’s test rig in Aurich, where testing began in late December. The test campaign includes various operational tests, such as running the generator at different power levels and evaluating its sound characteristics. The program also focuses on validating the generator’s grid behavior and its compatibility with the grid, along with assessing its generator-converter combination.
Logistics Prepared for Component Delivery
In parallel, ENERCON Logistics has been preparing for the delivery of the E-175 EP5 E2’s main components to the prototype construction site in Wachendorf, Lower Saxony. Scheduled for delivery in February, this marks the next step in the project’s timeline. Jens Lammel, Logistics Technology Manager at ENERCON, emphasized the success of the logistics tests, stating, “We successfully conducted practical tests for the new generator in December, transporting the prototype component from Magdeburg to Aurich. These deliveries were proof of our logistics concept, and everything went according to plan.”
Design and Transport Innovations
A central innovation in the E-175 EP5 E2 is its new divisible generator, designed with a 7.0 MW rated output and configured as an external rotor. In contrast to earlier ENERCON generators, the stator is located inside the design, while the rotor rotates around it. This design increases the air gap diameter from 5.50 meters in the original E-175 EP5 to 9.50 meters in the E2, allowing for greater torque and output.
To streamline transportation, the generator’s design focuses on keeping each half of the divisible unit under 4.99 meters in width and 62 tonnes in weight. This ensures that the components can be transported more easily, without the need for special equipment or police escorts. Installation at the construction site will also be more straightforward, utilizing standard 800-tonne class cranes for assembly.
Construction Progress and Future Plans
At the prototype site, foundation work is now complete, and tower construction is underway. Christopher Schuirmann, Chief Engineer for the E2 at ENERCON R&D, praised the collaborative efforts of the project team, which includes members from R&D, production, logistics, and installation. “Our goal is to have the first E-175 EP5 E2 turbine ready by the end of the first quarter,” Schuirmann added.
Conclusion
ENERCON’s ongoing test campaign and logistics preparations for the E-175 EP5 E2 turbine demonstrate the company’s commitment to advancing wind energy technology. With successful initial tests, efficient logistics, and innovative design features, ENERCON is on track to deliver a high-performance, market-ready product by the end of the first quarter. The company’s approach reflects a strong dedication to ensuring that its new turbine meets the highest standards of quality, performance, and efficiency, further strengthening its position in the competitive wind power sector.
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