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Mingyang’s OceanX Sets Record: World’s Most Powerful Floating Wind Turbine Successfully Sets Sail

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Mingyang

GUANGZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 August 2024 – On August 13, OceanX, the world’s largest single capacity floating wind power platform, embarked on its journey from Guangzhou to the Yangjiang Mingyang Qingzhou IV offshore wind farm in Guangdong, China. After a 191-nautical-mile, over 50-hour tow, the platform’s arrival marks the commencement of a new era in green energy, poised to set the standard for offshore wind power technology.

Developed by Mingyang Group, this floating wind turbine platform is arranged in a ‘V’ shape and carries two 8.3 MW offshore wind turbines. With a total capacity of 16.6 MW, it can be used in a wide range of sea areas around the world with water depth of more than 35 metres.

OceanX impeller reaches 219 metres at its highest point and a maximum width of about 369 metres in the air. The whole wind turbine platform has a total displacement of 15,000 tonnes, and a towing draft of 5.5 meters. Once operational, it is expected to produce 54 million kWh annually, enough to power 30,000 three-person households for a year.

  • High-Tech Ingenuity: OceanX Floats on Cutting-Edge Materials

OceanX advances wind turbine innovation by enhancing core component technology, driving both aesthetic and functional refinement in design and manufacturing.

Floating foundation is the key component for floating wind turbines in the deep and distant sea. Unlike traditional steel floating foundations, OceanX’s floating foundation consists of three floats, concrete arms and connectors.

It pioneers the use of ultra-high performance concrete with a compressive strength exceeding 115 MPa for floating foundation construction, a material 4 times stronger than standard concrete, significantly enhancing load-bearing capacity. The floating foundation also utilizes a pre-stressed high-strength concrete assembly structure, facilitating modular and batched manufacturing, thereby substantially reducing construction costs.

Mingyang has leveraged caisson pre-tensioning technology in its precast concrete construction, emphasizing interface sealing and the precision of the pre-stressing process. With 1,500 steel strands expertly threaded through the floating body’s arm, it has meticulously controlled tensioning forces and ensured uniform stress across the end face throughout the construction.

OceanX also introduces a cutting-edge float design, using layered material to replace traditional steel or hybrid materials. The float lightens the floats and accommodates their curved form. The three streamlined ellipsoidal floats offer reduced wave resistance and enable lateral rotation, providing yawing power. Rigorous testing confirms that the streamlined shape strikes an ideal balance between stability and load-bearing.

Notably, housing two wind turbines on a single floating platform can significantly cut down the per-kilowatt cost, as well as reduce the required sea area and operational maintenance expenses.

  • Revolutionary ‘V’ Tower: OceanX Pioneers Wind Turbine Architecture

OceanX, with its robust floating foundation, features the integration of two towers in a ‘V’ configuration, marking a first for offshore wind platforms.

OceanX’s tower, with its elongated elliptical design, maximizes wind exposure along its longer axis, significantly exceeding that on the shorter axis. By aligning the tower with the wind direction at an optimal angle, the wind platform’s area is effectively increased, allowing for swifter alignment to the wind and boosting the efficiency of wind energy capture. Additionally, the towers are fitted with a dual-access system for lifts and ladders, ensuring the comfort and safety of personnel during ascent and descent.

In addition to the evolution of the wind turbine form, Mingyang also expands the boundaries of the application of the cable-stayed system, installing it for the first time globally in a wind turbine.

OceanX has ingeniously harnessed the spatial framework of its tower system, integrating the world’s largest high-stress strand cable-stayed system. A robust network of 13 main and 6 auxiliary cables efficiently tensions the mainframe, tower, and floating foundation, establishing a stable tensioning mechanism across the wind turbine’s components. This innovative cable-stayed design has redefined the load transfer path of traditional wind turbines. Instead of the tower bearing the full impeller and gravity loads, the system distributes the tower’s gravity load to the tension cables, with the tower now only partially supporting the impeller loads. This strategic redistribution significantly lightens the tower’s load, enabling a streamlined and lightweight structural design.

To seamlessly integrate the 200-meter-long, 18-centimeter-diameter cables between the wind turbine, tower, and floats, OceanX employs a precise combination of graded pre-tensioning, multi-dimensional monitoring, and synchronized tensioning. This ensures that all 13 main cables achieve their individual pre-tensioning specifications and can be pre-tensioned to a maximum force of 350 tonnes, optimizing the structural integrity and performance of the wind turbine system.

  • Dual-Rotor Pioneer: OceanX’s Unparalleled Wind Harvesting Design

On the V-shaped tower, two main engines are equipped with parallel impellers, covering a sweeping area exceeding 52,000 square meters—comparable to the size of seven standard football fields. With the impeller blades’ tips a mere 5 meters apart, this pioneering design optimizes impeller pitch and wind efficiency while leveraging the V-shape of the tower. It ensures impeller safety and enhances both wind capture and structural stability.

Upon startup, the impellers rotate in opposite directions, enhancing wind speed in the central area and boosting electricity generation from air kinetic energy by 4.29% compared to a single, large turbine with an equivalent swept area.

In the context of the entire wind farm, longer blades on a single turbine can significantly affect the turbine downstream. OceanX employs two small-sized wind turbines, leveraging the coupled vortex effect from counter-rotation to mitigate efficiency losses across the farm.

  • Downwind Mastery: OceanX’s Single-Point Mooring Showcases Cutting-Edge Innovation

OceanX utilizes a downwind design, alleviating tower headroom constraints for the blades, allowing greater movement, and enhancing the unit’s power generation efficiency through flexible and efficient wind energy capture.

In the face of extreme typhoon conditions, floating wind turbines must be designed to withstand 360° typhoon loads from the outset to ensure stability and safety. OceanX employs a single-point mooring system, which allows the platform to adaptively yaw with the typhoon’s direction. This ensures that the wind turbine consistently faces the incoming wind, regardless of the typhoon’s path.

In the mooring system, to withstand forces equivalent to a level 17 typhoon, the turret’s high-precision slewing bearings must offer exceptional load-bearing capacity and superior underwater sealing. To guarantee OceanX’s stable maritime operation, Mingyang has meticulously assembled the turret system, adhering to stringent standards and precision demands.

Data reveals that the single-point mooring solution reduces the ultimate load on the support structure by 40%, significantly improving the wind turbine’s safety and stability in typhoon conditions. This technology’s implementation boosts the standardization and efficiency of onshore operations for marine and engineering equipment.

OceanX is also capable of managing total health of the turbine to optimising power generation efficiency and lowering the maintenance cost thus finally cut down Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) under different environmental conditions.

  • From MW Giants to Deep-Sea Pioneers: Mingyang’s Unceasing Quest for economical offshore wind power

In April 2020, the 1:10 scale prototype of the OceanX dual-rotor floating wind turbine platform was launched in Lake Quarry, Germany. By October, it had completed a two-month offshore operation in the Baltic Sea, enduring tests equivalent to 72m/s winds and 30-meter waves, and earned a feasibility certificate from DNV.

Mingyang has pushed the boundaries of offshore wind power technology, from typhoon-resistant wind power to large offshore megawatt units, and now to the navigation of deep-sea floating turbines. The latest advancements in deep-sea floating wind power are setting new standards for human exploration of the ocean, while decreasing the cost per kWh to make the offshore wind more affordable.

As a leader in global clean energy innovation, Mingyang is committed to driving breakthroughs in marine energy technology. It aims to lead industry innovation, expedite sustainable offshore wind development and facilitate the green transmission globally.

For more information, please visit https://www.myse.com.cn/en and https://www.linkedin.com/company/mingyangsmartenergy/

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Yellow Card Secures Crypto Asset Service Provider Licence in South Africa

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Stablecoin adoption is surging throughout Africa, with sub-Saharan Africa having the highest adoption rate in the world at 9.2%

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 20, 2024/APO Group/ — 

Yellow Card (www.YellowCard.io), Africa’s leading stablecoin-based infrastructure provider, has been issued a Crypto Asset Service Provider (CASP) licence by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in South Africa.  

Commenting on the FSCA’s decision to issue the licence to Yellow Card Financial South Africa, Chris Maurice, Yellow Card’s co-founder and CEO, said, “The CASP licence underscores Yellow Card’s commitment to its customers in South Africa and regulatory compliance across the continent.This achievement reflects our dedication to providing secure, compliant and transformative solutions for our customers both in South Africa and across Africa.  

The CASP licence underscores Yellow Card’s commitment to its customers in South Africa and regulatory compliance across the continent

Stablecoin adoption is surging throughout Africa, with sub-Saharan Africa having the highest adoption rate in the world at 9.2%. In South Africa alone, where the number of total users of crypto assets is estimated to amount to 5.8 million people, stablecoins have experienced growth of 50% month over month since October 2023, displacing bitcoin as the country’s most popular cryptocurrency.  Yellow Card is excited to play a pivotal role in this financial revolution in South Africa. 

Yellow Card, which launched in South Africa in 2020, has facilitated over US$3 billion in transactions in the last several years and now operates in 20 countries across the continent. The company recently completed a US$33 million Series C financing, led by Blockchain Capital and existing investors, including Polychain Capital, Valar Ventures, Third Prime Ventures, Coinbase Ventures, and Block, Inc. (Square/Cash App), reflecting strong investor confidence in its mission.   

As the stablecoin landscape continues to evolve, Yellow Card is committed to leading the charge in making digital assets accessible and secure for businesses across Africa. With the recent licensing and funding, the company plans to expand its B2B offerings by enhancing its stablecoin rails, upgrading infrastructure, and advancing its B2B API and Widget. These efforts will empower businesses with seamless solutions for liquidity management and their general operations. 

To learn more about Yellow Card, visit: https://YellowCard.io/

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Yellow Card Financial.

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Telecoming and MTN Partner to Launch cloud gaming in South Africa

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MTN Cloudplay will allow MTN users in South Africa to access a wide range of cloud-based video games, providing a high-quality gaming experience without the need for downloads or high-end gaming consoles

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 20, 2024/APO Group/ —

  • Both companies extend their collaboration to introduce cloud gaming in South Africa.
  • MTN Cloudplay aims to revolutionize digital entertainment with affordable, high-quality gaming access.

MTN, Africa’s leading telecommunications operator with over 290 million subscribers across the continent, announces the launch of Cloudplay, a revolutionary new cloud gaming service, with Telecoming (www.Telecoming.com), a sportech company specializing in developing and distributing mobile experiences for sports and entertainment. This project marks a new milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the two companies.

MTN Cloudplay: A Game Changer

MTN Cloudplay will allow MTN users in South Africa to access a wide range of cloud-based video games, providing a high-quality gaming experience without the need for downloads or high-end gaming consoles. The service will allow customers to stream high-end PC games to their mobile phones, enabling them to play anywhere, anytime.

This service seeks to democratize access to high-quality mobile gaming for the whole family; including various genres which include retro games and exciting popular gaming titles with multi-device gameplay, at an affordable price of only R79 per month.

Jason Probert, General Manager for Digital Services at MTN South Africa shared his thoughts on the collaboration:

Customers can use their existing Steam licenses on the service, and have access to more than 300 games on the service for only R79 per month

“We’re thrilled to launch MTN Cloudplay in South Africa. We’re committed to enabling our customers to enjoy the benefits of a modern connected life and the advent of 5G means that it is now possible to stream and play games without the need for a PC or console. Customers can use their existing Steam licenses on the service, and have access to more than 300 games on the service for only R79 per month.”

Alí Karaosman, MEA Director of Telecoming says “It is very exciting for us to extend our collaboration with MTN, bringing our nearly decade-long experience in this market and supporting the operator in this innovative digital entertainment offering, we are convinced that MTN Cloudplay will revolutionize the way users in South Africa enjoy video games. For Telecoming, this partnership with MTN is a strategic step in our mission to bring esports and innovative digital services to Africa. We are committed to continuing to develop technological solutions that enhance digital leisure for people in the region.”

Service Details

MTN Cloudplay is available to all MTN users in South Africa since November 2024. With a vast library of over 340 games from over 50 publishers, this cloud gaming service offers an unmatched gaming experience on any device.

MTN Cloudplay is accessible to MTN subscribers. Users can visit https://Cloudplay.MTN.co.za to explore the platform and enjoy a wide selection of gaming titles.

Highlights

  • Extensive Game Library: Enjoy classics like Contra, PacMan and Mortal Kombat and modern hits like Hogwarts Legacy and Borderlands 3.
  • Bring Your Own License (BYOL): Access games you’ve purchased on Steam, such as Grand Theft Auto V and Fallout 4.
  • Multi-Device Access: Play on any device and switch seamlessly between them.
  • Low Latency: Experience responsive gameplay with minimal lag.
  • Subscription: Available directly on https://Cloudplay.MTN.co.za or via the MTN Play https://Play.MTN.co.za website for R79 per month.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Telecoming.

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rainx Launches the101 Range of 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) Routers for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs)

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The industry’s smartest and most aesthetically pleasing 5G and Wi-Fi 7 router opens new opportunities for service providers globally

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 20, 2024/APO Group/ — 

rainx, a leader in 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) solutions, has launched the101 range (https://apo-opa.co/40UwYYE), an advanced ecosystem of fixed wireless 5G and Wi-Fi access products designed to meet the high standards of modern Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) and their customers.

This lineup includes the101 and the101 Pro 5G smart routers, the101 Xtender smart mesh Wi-Fi extender, and the101 Loop – a new category of product designed for today’s always-connected customer, powered by MediaTek. Together, these solutions redefine 5G FWA, enabling operators to enhance network quality, reduce churn, and drive new revenue streams. The routers also offer a collection of 101 skins to suit the users’ style, creating devices that are designed to be on show.

Targeted to the demands of the modern telco

As demand for 5G-enabled FWA continues to surge, MNOs face complex challenges in scaling network capacity and quality for fixed locations, while managing the concurrent load on mobile networks. Recognising this challenge, rainx has engineered the Customer Edge approach, an integrated ecosystem of products and services designed to empower operators to manage and optimise the customer experience. This begins with the101 range of 5G smart routers, which double as network probes, feeding real-time insights to theStation, a smart managed services platform.

theStation provides operators with deep network insights, enabling accurate, proactive decisions on coverage and capacity expansion. Operators can access detailed data on network performance in the home, including Wi-Fi clients, usage patterns, speed and latency – providing proactive support and direct customer communication through the101’s touch screen. This visibility gives MNOs comprehensive control over the entire FWA ecosystem, helping to streamline network load management, anticipate capacity needs, and deliver high-speed connectivity for both residential and commercial customers.

For end-users, the101 range provides an intuitive, self-service interface that empowers customers to manage their network in real time, minimising support needs and enhancing the overall customer experience.

Key Products in the101 Range include:

the101 Pro 5G smart router

Built for premium, high-demand users, the101 Pro offers advanced 5G capabilities with the new MediaTek (MTK) T830 platform that delivers sub-6Ghz 5G with speeds of up to 7 Gbps, Wi-Fi 7 and 300MHz 4 carrier aggregation. The routers offer a range of customisable skins to suit the users’ aesthetic preferences that bring the Pro’s screen to life. Its powerful hardware ensures optimal performance for bandwidth-intensive applications, including cloud gaming.

Our Customer Edge approach provides operators with the deep insights they need to make informed decisions on their networks

Ripple Messaging™ offers MNOs a direct communication channel to the device’s 2.1” touch screen for real-time support and service notifications. It includes a built-in speed test and a “Tap for Support” feature. Additionally, theStation’s managed services enable proactive device management, optimising performance with real-time updates to ensure continuous service quality and reducing operational costs.

the101 5G Smart Router

rainx’s mid-range offering is powered by an MTK T750 platform with 200MHz two carrier aggregation and AX3600 Wi-Fi 6. With a 1.8” touch screen display, it offers smart features like “Scan to Connect”, direct messaging and a built-in speed test. It’s available with a choice of 101 skins to suit customer tastes. the101 also offers managed services through theStation.

the101 Xtender Smart Mesh Wi-Fi

the101 Xtender broadens 5G coverage, enabling MNOs to deliver high-quality, uniform connectivity throughout larger spaces. As part of the mesh network, Xtenders integrate directly with 101 routers, allowing operators to address Wi-Fi coverage gaps and deliver a consistent, high-speed experience across homes or office spaces.

the101 Loop

A new portable 5G router designed for today’s always-connected consumer. With built-in 5G, a 5.5” LCD touch screen, 25W stereo sound and a cinematic camera, the Loop lets you connect in exciting new ways. MNOs can leverage the Loop’s multimedia capabilities to offer premium services, build customer loyalty and create new ARPU (Average Revenue Per User) opportunities through integrated 5G and Wi-Fi.

“Through smart hardware and services, we’re partnering with MNOs and MVNOs to unlock the potential of 5G,” said Brandon Leigh, Founder and Director of rainx. “Our ecosystem empowers operators to monetise latent 5G capacity, create new revenue streams, and addresses the shift from spiky mobile traffic to high, steady usage at fixed locations. Our Customer Edge approach provides operators with the deep insights they need to make informed decisions on their networks, manage the customer experience and generate ROI from 5G.”

“For customers, the 101range allows them to blend their aesthetic preferences with beautiful customisable skins, alongside high-performance engineering powered by the latest MediaTek CPE technology. the101 range delivers a reliable, high-speed connection that stays robust during periods of spiky traffic. The range also offers intuitive self-service features, allowing customers to easily monitor and control their router, reducing the need for support calls and creating a seamless, hands-on user experience that truly puts the power in their hands,” Leigh concluded. 

Rami Osman, Director of Business Development for MediaTek Middle East and Africa, said: “We are excited to collaborate with rainx to increase 5G FWA access across Africa, Asia and abroad to bring the benefits of fast, reliable connectivity to consumers and businesses. The MediaTek T830 has a highly integrated and compact design that provides big power savings and reduces development time and costs for customers like rainx.

“The MediaTek T830 chipset platform represents the latest advancements in both 5G and Wi-Fi connectivity and enables our customers to build extremely high-performance multi-gigabit 5G CPE products in the smallest form factors possible. Users can get a super-fast router at home of office that they can self-install and manage, reducing the lengthy installation times for fixed line broadband,” Osman said.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MediaTek Inc..

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