Uptower Inspection for wind turbines

Performing NDT Inspection uptower of the wind turbine is often quite advanced, due to issues with limited access in confined spaces inside the nacelle, making it difficult to maneuver inspection tools and personnel.

Advanced wind turbine inspection for confined spaces uptower.

In some cases, certain components are often removed to provide necessary access for inspections, increasing the complexity of the procedure. Therefore, the most common NDT inspection methods are not always the most obvious to use uptower. This is where we involve more advanced NDT methods to perform a qualified inspection, without the need to remove certain components.
Methods we are able to use for uptower inspections involve:
• Eddy Current Array Inspection (ET)
• Magnetic Particle Testing (MT)
• Penetrant Testing (PT)

NDT inspection on wind turbine performed by 3WIS inspector Stephen Chambers

Benefit from our uptower NDT Inspections

”The main benefit with our uptower NDT Inspection methods, is that we are able to deliver advanced methods that provides qualified results similar to more common NDT methods, even in confined spaces, without the need to remove certain components. Ultimately resulting in a faster inspection procedure and the potential to avoid downtime of the turbine.”

The process of NDT Uptower 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.
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FAQ: Uptower Inspection

What is NDT Uptower Inspection?

NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) Uptower Inspection involves advanced techniques for inspecting wind turbines in confined spaces, such as inside the nacelle. These methods minimize the need for disassembly while delivering precise results.

What are the main NDT methods used uptower?

- Eddy Current Array Inspection: Detects cracks and defects in metallic components.
- MT Inspection: Uses magnetic particles to identify surface and subsurface defects.
- PT Inspection: Applies liquid penetrants to locate surface imperfections.

What are the benefits of advanced uptower NDT methods?

- Avoids the need for component removal.

- Reduces turbine downtime.

- Provides fast and accurate results, even in confined spaces.

How is an NDT Uptower Inspection conducted?

The process involves multiple stages, including a visual analysis, procedure planning, risk assessment, on-site inspection, and reporting findings to engineering or welding teams.
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