Safer and Smarter Wind Turbine Maintenance: Introducing our Robotic Solution
Wind turbines are an essential source of renewable energy, but they require regular maintenance to remain efficient. Meet our robots that are revolutionizing the way wind turbine blades are cleaned and maintained. These robots have access to both the inside and outside of the blades, making wind turbine maintenance safer and more efficient.
Challenges of Wind Turbine Maintenance
Wind turbines are complex machines that require regular maintenance to stay efficient. However, maintenance can be challenging due to the height and location of the windmills, as well as the size and shape of the blades. Traditional methods of maintenance involve climbing the turbine and manually cleaning and inspecting the blades, which can be dangerous and time-consuming. This is where our robots come in, providing a safer and more efficient solution for wind turbine maintenance.
Benefits of Robots for Wind Turbine Maintenance
Using robots for wind turbine maintenance offers several benefits. Firstly, human workers no longer need to climb the windmills, reducing the risk of accidents. Secondly, robots can work faster and more efficiently than humans, completing maintenance tasks in a fraction of the time. Thirdly, robots can inspect hard-to-reach parts of the turbine, such as the inside of the blades. In summary, using robots for wind turbine maintenance provides a safer, faster, and more efficient maintenance solution.
Wind Turbine Maintenance: How Exterior Robots Work
In collaboration with our partner Aerones Services, we have developed two types of robots, each with a specific role in inspecting, cleaning, and repairing wind turbine blades. The first robot is designed to examine the exterior of the blades, clean them, and perform any necessary repairs. This robot is attached to four cables and can move freely in a three-dimensional space. The robot can be equipped with a high-resolution camera for precise inspections. Additionally, specific tools can be added for cleaning purposes, such as attachments for cleaning drainage channels. For repairs, the robot can be equipped with various other tools, such as attachments for sanding and painting.
Wind Turbine Maintenance: How Interior Robots Work
The second robot is deployed inside the turbine blades. It takes the form of a crawler, a compact vehicle approximately 40 centimeters in size, capable of moving within the blade. The robot is equipped with high-resolution cameras and measuring instruments, which can detect various damages, such as fractures in the LPS or air bubbles in the fiber mat. Thanks to this advanced equipment, even the smallest hairline cracks can be detected. Furthermore, it is possible to create a 3D computer model of the blade, also known as a digital twin. A digital twin allows for monitoring and detecting changes over time.
Both robots can be deployed simultaneously, reducing the downtime of the wind turbine.
Cost Savings and Increased Efficiency in Wind Turbine Maintenance
Our robots for wind turbine maintenance can lead to significant cost savings, especially in the long term. By minimizing or eliminating the need for human workers to climb the windmills and perform maintenance tasks, companies can save on labor costs and reduce the risk of accidents or injuries. Moreover, using robots can enhance the efficiency of maintenance operations, enabling more frequent and thorough inspections and repairs. This can extend the lifespan of the turbines and ensure they continue to generate clean energy for years to come.
Want to learn more about our advanced robot technology for wind turbine maintenance? Feel free to contact us.
