German mechanical engineering specialist WP Systems has tested a modified version of its working platform System Terra that can now be used for carrying out repairs on all existing onshore turbines.
The test was carried out on a Vestas V150 4.2MW machine and involved the platform working as far as 17.5 metres between the tower and the tip of a blade.
WP Systems chief executive Ole Renner said: “After this successful demonstration, we will implement the modifications in our series production.
“This will give our customers access to the latest generation of onshore wind turbines.”
The platform enables technicians to carry out repairs around the entire rotor blade all year around.
Work on the blade can be carried out at wind speeds of up to 12.5 metres a second and, if necessary, 24/7 in a temperature- and humidity-controlled environment, the company said.
WP System said System Terra was also tested on an offshore turbine for the first time in March – a Siemens 3.6 unit located onshore in the German district of Nordfriesland.
The company said the platform will be developed to become System Aqua to work offshore.
WP System head of development Jan Boesner said: “For us, the continuous development of our products is our top priority.
“We consider it as our daily challenge to respond to the constantly changing conditions and the progressive development of wind turbines.”