Hardened Fiber-Optic Cabling System Supports Solar and Wind Farms
Structured cabling system manufacturer Reichle & De-Massari AG (R&M) offers a fiber-optic cabling portfolio whose rugged features make it appropriate for data network connectivity in solar and wind farms.
When discussing the needs of these specialized network types, R&M explained, “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 failsafe 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.”
Because R&M’s cabling systems are not application-specific, they support all network architectures and communication requirements based on Ethernet and Internet Protocol (IP).
R&M adds, “Wind and solar farm operators should not compromise on the quality of cables, splice closures, and connectors.” The company pointed out that wind farms are subject to unforgiving conditions because the nacelles move, vibrate, and are exposed to temperature fluctuations while residing at significant heights. Furthermore, offshore farms must withstand salty air. “In the facilities, strong electromagnetic fields can also interfere with electrical data transmission,” R&M says, adding that these factors are why the company “recommends fiber-optic cabling and optical data transmission. These ensure the most stable solution for traffic over long distances.
“Network components must be designed to operate within a temperature range of -40 to +85 degrees Celsius, have a tensile strength above 450 N [Newtons] 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.”
With these environmental conditions being what they are, R&M offers its outdoor connectivity portfolio as ideally suited for applications including solar and wind farms as well as mobile phone towers. The company’s Harsh Environment Connector (HEC) is the system’s linchpin thanks to its dust-tight, waterproof performance along with its shatterproof housing. It meets Telcordia standards for vibration, temperature change, and mechanical robustness. The HEC-QR connector, along with R&M’s preterminated LUNAR Box make up a plug-and-play system that is capable of standing up to the extreme environments in which these networks reside, the company says.
“In addition 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,” R&M continues. “Cost efficiency considers the costs of purchasing materials, installation, and maintenance over the entire lifecycle of the wiring.”
To that end, R&M provides project-support services including planning the network launch, delivery of ready-for-assembly products, and technical support remotely as well as on-site.
