New rotor blade access system

With the new TÜV approved system, specialists will be able to perform scheduled maintenance as well as advanced repairs on rotor blades for larger turbines up to 12MW class and 200m hub height. Käufer hopes to commercially release the K-BP-4 in Spring 2019, and aims that the BAS will be compatible with most conventional wind turbines worldwide.

“With our new BAS we adapt to the continuous improving safety and technical requirements for working in the harsh environmental conditions surrounding wind turbine towers and rotor blades”, explained the Technical Director of the company Dirk Käufer.

With the K-BP-4 BAS which uses a parallel track system it will be possible to maintain rotor blades with protruded blade tips up to 18 metres away from the tower, which is a key factor with today’s state of the art pre-bend rotor blades. The new BAS features side gangways which can be opened mechanically, enabling personnel to reach the full 360° longitudinal repair area surrounding rotor blades. The BAS will feature a three-way wire rope / winch suspension, which will ensure a significant improved stabilization of the platform in comparison with performance of its predecessors, and which will result in a clear measurable safety- and user experience.

Käufer can also supply an optional enclosure providing operators and blade specialists a protective shelter enabling continuity of work during bad weather or other undesired environmental conditions and/or simply securing specific conditions for repair.

By Jake Frith