LM Wind Power has inaugurated its largest wind turbine rotor test rig of its kind at the WMC Technology Centre in the Netherlands.
The now fully operational rig will help assess the rotors of wind turbines for strength and dynamic behaviour while subjected to heavy mechanical loads brought on by large wind turbine blades, the Denmark-based GE subsidiary said.
Chief executive Olivier Fontan said: “I am really pleased to see our in-house testing capabilities enhanced with this new rotor rig.
“Our industry-leading facilities to test our new blades and components have always been one of LM Wind Power’s competitive advantages.
“I am also particularly proud of the team behind this effort, both those based at LM’s WMC but also everyone around the globe that has supported them to commission the rig, as well as the local authorities for their ongoing support.”
LM Wind Power’s CTO and president of engineering and technology Hanif Mashal added: “Establishing an extremely large and advanced test rig shows our commitment to develop insights into rotor technology that go beyond blade production alone.
“Our LM rig was developed in partnership with IDOM and TNO, together with GE Renewable Energy, and is a clear indicator of the innovative potential when partners work together across the industry.
“Advanced technology is key to developing and improving rotor blade design for existing and future markets.”