Bangalore – R&M, the globally active developer and provider of infrastructure solutions for data and communications networks, based in Wetzikon, Switzerland, has expanded its offering for wind and solar farms.
The solutions cover the requirements for network connections ranging from outdoor applications to local data networks in operation centers.
Optimizing energy use with data
Digitalization is helping to increase the value of every megawatt-hour produced. The exchange of information between power plant operators, electricity exchanges and public utilities is increasing. They are increasingly using cloud services, AI, big data models, virtual power plants, and data-driven trading strategies. Energy production and consumption therefore require a fail-safe flow of data in both directions.
The complete integration of distant and extensive onshore and offshore parks into robust data networks is crucial. The facilities must be continuously accessible for decades, regardless of the weather, as the players rely on real-time data.
R&M focuses on non-application-specific cabling systems. These support all network architectures and communication requirements based on the universal data network and Internet protocol Ethernet/IP. Parallel wiring, for example for bus systems, is superfluous in many cases or can be integrated.
Wind farms are subject to challenging operating conditions. Installed high up, the power plant nacelles move, vibrate, and are exposed to temperature fluctuations. Offshore farms also have to contend with salty air. In the facilities, strong electromagnetic fields can also interfere with electrical data transmission. This is why R&M recommends fiber optic cabling and optical data transmission. These ensure the most stable solution for data traffic over long distances.
Recommendations for product selection
Wind and solar farm operators should not compromise on the quality of cables, splice closures, and connectors. Network components must be designed to operate within a temperature range of -40° C to +85° C, have a tensile strength above 450 N and be UV-resistant. Outdoor products must be dust-tight and waterproof, impact-resistant, and non-corroding in accordance with the requirements of protection class IP68. Plug-and-play solutions that enable fast and safe assembly are the ideal installation method.
R&M has designed its outdoor connectivity portfolio for use in harsh environments, such as mobile phone masts, wind and solar farms. The key element is the Harsh Environment Connector (HEC) for optical data links. The dust-tight and waterproof, tensile and shatterproof housing of the HEC connector meets Telcordia® standards. Compared to the IEC standard common in Europe, Telcordia® defines relevant disturbance parameters such as vibration, temperature change, and mechanical robustness more strictly. In addition to the HEC-QR connector, the pre-terminable and maintenance-free LUNAR Box is recommended for fiber optic plug-and-play installations in harsh environments.
Focus on cost efficiency
In addition to the resilience of the products, cost efficiency is an important aspect for operators of wind and solar farms, and is achieved as the solution comes from a single source and is professionally coordinated from the outset. Cost efficiency considers the costs of purchasing materials, installation, and maintenance over the entire life cycle of the wiring.
R&M supports projects ranging from planning to the launch of the data network, and offers the pre-termination of assemblies, connection boxes, splice closures, and distributors. The units are delivered ready for assembly. R&M service teams provide technical support remotely or on site. The infrastructure solutions and services for wind and solar farms from R&M are available worldwide.
