LeitDrive is a modular converter offering a power range from 250 kW up to 3.000 kW.

In a typical 1.0 MW turbine, LEITWIND says it will install four 250 kW LeitDrive converters, each with independent electric circuits: "This modular construction means higher availability and productivity since the turbine can continue to operate in the unlikely case of component failure of one converter", according to the company.

Each module is a fully functional unit including a grid and motor side inverter. The custom made, water cooled power stack has a size of 400 mm width per module.

The decision to make LeitDrive a standard configuration in LEITWIND’s wind turbines follows the successful operation of 5 prototype units in Italy in the course of 2012. The first new 4Q frequency converters were installed in autumn 2012 in five of the LEITWIND LTW77 1.5 MW turbines in Montecatini, Val di Cecina Tuscany.

LeitDrive uses  latest generation insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBT). “Due to the customised power stack the IGBT selection can focus on the application without compromise, while at the same time avoiding uneconomic over-dimensioning.”, commented Günter Tschinkel, Head of Electrical Engineering.

About LEITWIND

LEITWIND is a gearless wind turbine manufacturer, with a patented synchronous generator using permanent magnets. LEITWIND is part of the international company LEITNER group.