Barge is a third viable form of transport for wind components
Traditionally, the most common method of transporting large wind components has been via specialized truck transportation carriers. In recent years rail transport has been...
Clarifying scope definition prior to beginning a project
Scope definition is likely the single greatest source of frustration on all wind projects. Simply put, the scope is the link that binds owners...
Annual analyses of faults that cause downtime can shed light on nuisance-type issues
In the world of maintenance there is generally an accepted rule in system troubleshooting that states the best methodology should attempt to eliminate at...
The more engaged today’s youth are in the stewardship of our natural resources, the...
As we are embarking on a new adventure at Penn State directing the Pennsylvania Wind for Schools program, we are reminded of how fascinating...
By developing logistics strategies that benefit the entire system, companies can improve performance
Logistics roles and responsibilities tend to be compartmentalized within companies. One group may handle project deliveries, another group manages inbound plant logistics, and a...
Once your project has been cleared to proceed, which construction strategy will you choose?
Once your wind farm project becomes approved, you will eventually need to decide what construction strategy you will use. Many developers have traditionally gone...
Focusing on the sightline from maintenance reliability to business success
When we speak of wind turbine maintenance we often refer to the scheduled, semi-annual, or annual service that involves such tasks as replacing filters,...
The challenges involved in building integrated wind energy include wind flow, structure siting, unit...
Building-integrated wind turbines (BIWT) are becoming more prevalent in the landscape across the United States, as well as in Europe. There are many challenges...
Mitigating or avoiding demurrage and detention fees
Logistics costs account for 10-15 percent of the total turbine cost. Understanding and controlling these costs is an important part of managing the overall...
There is a profound distinction between education and training
I expect we have all heard the message: While placed on hold, a voice says “to ensure quality this call may be recorded.” If...
An interdisciplinary workforce of engineers is essential for advancements in wind turbine technology
Jobs in wind energy have been and are currently out there. The wind industry, though, is challenged with filling open positions with qualified candidates...
It is critical to balance site section criteria against the needs of the project...
Inbound supply chains are becoming increasingly complex. While many OEM turbine manufacturers have or are planning North American assembly plants, most new plants are...
The rise in mobile technology is the catalyst that the wind industry needs
Those familiar with wind turbine service documents—either having had to complete them as a technician uptower, or who are the recipients in the shop...
The past, present, and future of research into modeling a turbine’s wake
The wind industry faces a number of challenges in developing wind farms, both onshore and offshore. Two that concern the aerodynamics of wind turbines...
Overland transport is a crucial link in the supply chain
The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) has implemented a new safety measurement program, referred to as CSA2010, intended to improve road safety and...
Ensuring worker safety is a critical aspect of a construction project’s success
There is nothing more important to your business than the people who work for you. All aspects of your operation depend on their efforts...
Cleaning the turbine properly is just as important as more-technical O&M procedures
A wind technician education consists of learning how to maintain and service wind turbines that are designed to generate electricity. Courses begin with the...
The U.S. DOE has announced funding opportunities for a “National Offshore Wind Strategy”
The potential benefits of an offshore wind deployment in the United States are manifold. It is well known that offshore winds are stronger and...
Component manufacturers will benefit by understanding how to use rail as an alternative transport...
It is no secret that the new class of wind turbine designs is challenging the limits of transportation logistics. Not only are the nacelles...
Wind project owners, site managers, and technicians alike need to understand the value of...
Many wind technicians begin their career having already been taught skills in servicing rotating machinery and bring a modest background and understanding of mechanical...
