Timken, College to Build Wind Energy R&D Center

(National Renewable Energy Laboratory)

The Timken Company in Canton, Ohio revealed plans for a new research and development center for wind turbine mechanisms used to generate electricity. The $11.8 million facility, built in collaboration with nearby Stark State College, is expected to add 65 new jobs.

The R&D center will focus on wind turbine mechanisms that convert wind power into electrical power. Timken manufactures bearing and sealing systems for wind turbines, some massive in size. The company says the largest of these hoop-shaped bearings weighs more than five tons, with an inner diameter wide enough to allow an SUV to pass through the center.

For these turbine components to work efficiently, they need sophisticated testing and measurement that replicate the dynamic forces of wind. The R&D center is expected to provide those testing and measurement capabilities. The facility also plans to offer a research practicum and technical certification program for Stark State College students to acquire experience conducting research, development, and testing of large wind-turbine bearing systems.

Funding for the project comes from more than $6 million invested by Timken, plus another $2.1 million from Ohio’s Third Frontier Commission, a technology-based economic development initiative. The Ohio Air Quality Development Authority’s Advanced Energy Jobs Stimulus Program added a $1.5 million loan.

Read more: Wind Turbine Blade Edge Helps Reduce Power Costs

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