Refurbish
Reviving Energy: Wind Turbine Refurbishment
What is refurbishing?
Refurbishment leaves the overall structure of wind turbines and/or their major components intact, while parts are replaced and repaired if needed. Turbines and components can be upgraded in the process, and could even be designed from the start of the first lifecycle to accommodate for upgrades later on.
Refurbished parts are meant to last another lifecycle, thereby extending the lifetime of wind turbines and components.
Refurbishment increases “resource productivity”. This is the value generated per unit of material. Increasing resource productivity is a cornerstone of a sustainable circular economy. The use of refurbished parts also reduces energy and carbon emissions for the building and maintaining of wind farms. This can help to reduce costs for wind farm developers and operators, increase security for timely access to components, and generate extra social value in the form of more local skilled jobs.
Dr. Anne Velenturf, University of Leeds
Refurbishment of used wind turbine’s
Extending the end of life of wind turbines, refurbishment has a significant positive impact on their environmental footprint. Business in Wind is committed to operating as close to the first R in the R-ladder as possible. We achieve this by purchasing used turbines, upgrading them to meet current standards, and reinstalling them at new locations. The refurbishment process involves a thorough inspection of the turbines, decommissioning and refurbishing key components, followed by reassembly, testing, and final commissioning at their new site. This approach extends the lifespan of wind turbines while enhancing their efficiency and sustainability for future use.
Turbine inspection
Before purchasing a wind turbine, a thorough inspection is conducted to assess the condition of the turbine. This starts with insight into the turbine’s maintenance history, previous performance, and potential known issues. Following, a physical inspection is carried out on-site, including a visual assessment of the turbine is performed to check for any obvious signs of wear or damage. During this on-site inspection – which is carried out by a third party – an endoscope inspection is performed to see the internal parts of components that are not easily visible, such as the gearbox and bearings. To enhance the accuracy of the inspection, vibration analysis is conducted. This analysis helps detect abnormalities or imbalances in the moving parts of the turbine, facilitating the identification of potential issues. Overall, this thorough multi-step approach guarantees a complete understanding of the turbine’s current condition before purchasing decisions are made. The results with conclusions are summarised in a detailed report.
Dismantling turbine
Business in Wind takes full responsibility for the dismantling of the entire wind turbine or excluding the tower, depending on the specific project requirements. Our experienced team makes sure that the process well prepared and is carried out with care, adhering to strict safety standards and minimizing potential environmental impact. Once dismantled, the wind turbine is carefully packed and stored, ensuring protection during the storage period. It allows for efficient refurbishment and reinstallation in the future.
Infographic
Reassembly and checks
Once the wind turbine’s key components have been refurbished and/or replaced, the next phase involves carefully reassembling the turbine. Issues identified during the checks are addressed, securing that the turbine meet the required safety and operational standards.
Reinstallation and commissioning
After reassembly is complete, the reinstallation phase begins, where we take full responsibility for managing a safe and efficient installation process. This includes arranging transportation of the turbine components to the new site, coordinating cranes for the reinstallation, and ensuring all necessary site facilities are in place. Safety is important, where we use a pragmatic approach. We expect every person working on site is able to do risk assessments him- or herself and judge about safe conditions. If one is in doubt, we do stop the works until conditions and expectations are workable understood by all. After reinstallation, the turbine will be commissioned. Final checks are made to confirm that the turbine is fully functional and operating within the required parameters. With everything in place, the refurbished wind turbine is ready to start producing electricity at its new location.
Business in Wind
The solution for challenging wind projects: we purchase used wind turbines, upgrade them to meet current standards and give them a second life at a new location.
In a circular economy, collaboration is more crucial than ever. Traditionally, the life cycle of a wind turbine begins with the expertise, guarantees, and services provided by the manufacturer. We believe the second life of a turbine maintain the same high standards.
Our services include Supply & Installation of used wind turbines, Purchasing & Decommissioning and Parts & Refurbishment.
This represents our commitment to the used wind turbine industry
Other circular strategies
See here the other Circular Strategies, which already provide a frontrunning showcase or are still available for new industry partners!
Repurpose
Refurbish
Waste prevention
Reuse
Dematerialise
Remine