The doctoral research is carried out in the frame of the SALOME project.

In this project, the Electrical Energy Laboratory (EELAB) of Ghent University will investigate different control strategies for providing grid support services for frequency control, including very fast inertial response. These control strategies change the electrical power supplied and can lead to rapid changes in mechanical loads and torques, which can have a significant impact on the life of certain components such as bearings and on maintenance. However, these grid support services can be provided in different ways. Various alternatives and their impact on lifespan and maintenance will be investigated. Historical data and measurements will be used for this. In addition, certain mechanical systems can cause fluctuations in electrical power, which in turn has an influence on the electrical energy grid. Damping out or compensating these fluctuations through the control of the wind turbine system will also be investigated.

In short, EELAB aims to conduct multidisciplinary research into the interaction between electrical energy production (and its control) and mechanical aspects such as fatigue, lifespan and maintenance.