The Challenge: Reliability in an Unpredictable Environment
The Mojave Wind Project stands as the pinnacle of wind power initiatives in the United States, boasting thousands of acres of turbines sprawling across the Mojave Desert. With a monumental capacity to generate 1,550 megawatts of electricity to power approximately 600,000 homes, the project's scale and significance in renewable energy are unparalleled.
Situated merely 20 miles north of the San Andreas fault, one of the world's most active earthquake zones, the Mojave Wind Project faced a critical challenge. Each connection required reinforcement to endure the seismic pressures, ensuring uninterrupted power transmission despite potential seismic disturbances.
The Solution: Fast, Reliable Deployment
Our engineering prowess facilitated the design, testing, and manufacture of cable connectors with expedited lead times. These connectors were specifically fortified to withstand substantial seismic stress levels, passing stringent high-voltage tests.
The implementation of our innovative single Swage installation method further streamlined the deployment process, drastically reducing installation time compared to conventional welding methods.
The installation phase posed a unique set of challenges. Taking place amidst the unforgiving Mojave Desert in early June, where temperatures soared above 90°F with relentless 50MPH wind gusts, the conditions were extreme. Despite these hurdles, the experienced construction crew, well-versed in utilizing DMC Power tools, efficiently tackled the installation. Working 25 feet above the ground with live 500kV lines in proximity, the crew demonstrated exceptional skill and adaptability.
The Results: Efficient and Adaptable Renewable Energy Transmission
The successful implementation of seismic-resistant cable connectors underscored the reliability and speed of DMC Power's solutions. Despite harsh desert conditions and the looming threat of seismic activity, the connectors demonstrated steadfastness and reliability. This ensured not only the resilience of the power transmission system but also reflected our commitment to delivering efficient, adaptable, and seismic-stable solutions for vital renewable energy projects like the Mojave Wind Project.
Have a challenge in need of custom solutions? Contact a DMC Power Territory Manager today!
(Click to enlarge gallery images)
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- 65 TONS of Swaging Power!
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- Thousands of acres of massive wind mills
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- Looking up from underneath you can see the straight, easy installation
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- Look at that 90 degree angle and the rigidity of the connection
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- Installing the vertical cable to the breaker before trimming to size
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- In the lift installing and measuring the horizontal cables
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- Sliding the cable into the connector – one Swage on each side and its installed!
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- We need to connect this breaker to that switch on the top right while maintaining seismic strength
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- Connectors were delivered in 8 foot and 12 foot segments
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- No strength or rigidity at all on these connections..and they take longer to weld in place
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- Fits in your hand and snugly around the connector
