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Laser-optical geometry technique to analyse the condition of wind turbines

This research project, implemented by Bremen University with its partners LASE Industrielle Lasertechnik GmbH and Deutsche WindGuard Engineering GmbH, aims to develop an optical geometry technique to measure and analyse the condition of wind turbine rotor blades.
The rotor blades are among the most expensive components of a wind turbine. Despite the permanent stress from environmental factors and varying load scenarios, the rotor blades are designed to remain in use for at least 20 years. The optical geometry measurementf technique which is to be tested in the project aims to identify damage at a very early stage, before more serious damage can occur to the rotor blades and the wind turbine as a whole.

This measurement technology aims to identify – from a long distance and without the use of expensive industrial climbers – damage in the form of, for example, cracks, flaws in the paint, blade angle errors or damage to the internal structure. The replacement and repair of rotor blades, bearings and gears entails considerable logistics and costs. By making needs-based maintenance possible, this approach can cut costs, minimise downtimes and deliver enhanced availability.

The project is financed with funding from the European Union and the State of Bremen, the Senator for Climate Change Mitigation, Environment, Mobility, Urban Development and Housing Construction, the Applied Environmental Research funding programme.