Insulation system reliability in wind generation

Wind turbine generators are subjected to unusual environments and stresses. In this paper we will discuss several types of wind generator insulation failure mechanisms as well as forensic analysis results of several different manufacturers' systems. The types of generators studied include induction, wound rotor, and permanent magnet across a number of output voltages and environmental conditions. Past studies relied upon rudementary results and stopped at the obvious. In this paper we will dig a little deeper into the failure processes observed.