NDT Tower Inspection

We categorize Tower inspection as an advanced NDT concept, as it is a challeging procedure due to working in heights and in cofined spaces in or outside the wind turbine tower.

Advanced NDT Tower Inspection for Wind Turbines

Tower inspection is what we categorise as challenging, when it comes to performing NDT. In contrast to uptower inspections that involve confined spaces, to perform tower inspection, it is not an issue to use the conventional NDT methods (such as visual inspection, UT, PT and MT), as the areas in focus mostly are free from components. However, when performing tower inspection, accessibility and safety are main concerns, as it often requires working at heights in- or outside the turbine tower. The procedures therefore require much safety planning of the procedure in advance. 
At 3WIS our NDT technicians are trained rope-access specialists, making us capable of delivering advanced NDT inspections of the whole tower section of the turbine.
Furthermore, we involve custom-made platforms or robots as well, to perform tower inspection procedures.
The methods we typically involve for performing tower inspections are:
- Eddy Current Testing (ET)
- Visual Testing (VT)
- Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
- Magnetic Particle Testing (Fluorescent or color contrast)
- Penetrant Inspection (Fluorescent or color contrast)
- Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT)
- Time of Flight Diffraction Testing (TOFT)

We can potentially combine Phased Array, Time of flight diffraction in an automated scanning technique.

How we create value through NDT Tower Inspections

”The main benefit with our Tower NDT Inspection concept, is that we are able to deliver an advanced NDT procedure and an ability to reach any potential hotspots of the wind turbines tower construction, through our trained rope-access specialists. Accessibility is not an issue here. Furthermore, we are able to involve our own competencies to ensure a better preparation of the NDT procedure and repair process afterwards. All together giving the client a faster and much better outcome for a potential repair, avoiding the risk of information falling between two chairs.”

The process of NDT Tower Inspections

1. The initial step before any inspection is performed, is that a visual analysis is handed over from our Project & Engineering department to our NDT specialists. Giving a thorough understanding of the specific issue and potential hotspots.

2. Procedure planning with relevant methods of NDT, either advanced or conventional. Based on the visual analysis, the full procedure is planned in-house by our back office NDT specialists.
3. All work instructions that are vital for performing a safe and qualified procedure are described and approved step-by-step. Here we also ensure the right methods and equipment is used.

4. The inspection scope is presented to the client who decides whether we develop our own procedure or work according to their own procedure standard. Suggested methods working alongside the client, we suggest methods for potential advanced NDT.
5. The actual NDT Inspection procedure is performed on-site, with the required methods and equipment.

6. After the NDT Inspection, a detailed report is made for findings
7. Instantly after the inspection report has been made, the findings are handed over to our engineering team or the client.
Want to learn more?
contact
FAQ: NDT Tower Inspection

What is tower inspection?

Tower inspection involves Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) of wind turbine towers to identify potential structural issues or defects. Unlike uptower inspections, tower inspections utilize conventional NDT methods since the inspection areas are generally free from obstructing components.

What are the main challenges of tower inspection?

The primary challenges are accessibility and safety, as inspections often require working at significant heights either inside or outside the turbine tower. Proper safety planning and specialized equipment are crucial to the process.

How does 3WIS address the safety and accessibility challenges?

At 3WIS, our NDT technicians are trained rope-access specialists. We also use custom-made platforms and robotic solutions to ensure safe and thorough inspections of the entire tower.

What NDT methods are used in tower inspections?

3WIS utilizes a variety of advanced NDT methods, including:

- Eddy Current Array Inspection
- Visual Testing
- Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
- Magnetic Particle Inspection (Fluorescent or Color Contrast)
- Penetrant Inspection (Fluorescent or Color Contrast)
- Phased Array Inspection
- Time of Flight Diffraction Inspection
cross-circle