U.S. wind market undulations cause ripple effects in transportation
As consultants in the area of wind component logistics, we are often asked to provide a market overview for clients. The challenge, of course,...
Augered piles are ideally suited for use in wind tower applications
Auger cast piles (augered or displacement)—also known as augered piles, augered cast in place (ACIP) piles, or continuous flight auger (CFA) piles—are a cost-effective...
Most large-scale wind farms are remote, making theft and vandalism a concern
Security of a wind project is a task that typically goes hand in hand with maintaining the assets and assuring high availability for the...
Wind industry must continue to improve technologies and pave the way for offshore development
The current growth of wind energy in the U.S. has been enabled by a significant number of viable land-based installations that today represents over...
Increased turbine production means increased transportation and logistics equipment
Industry data shows that the demand for wind-generated power in the United States is growing, driven by a Department of Energy goal to increase...
Vibro compaction is an economical alternative to deep foundation systems
A deep foundation system consisting of a mono-pole or drilled/driven piles is often recommended by the geotechnical engineer when the geotechnical exploration at a...
Bolting techniques, part 2
In the September installment of this column we began discussing various ways to avoid turbine failure resulting from bolt failure and/or improper bolting assembly...
Turbines affect on national security
The siting of a wind farm project can be a lengthy, costly, and a complicated process once a developer takes into account the different...
Wind projects in developing countries
Wind energy potential in a number of developing and emerging countries could be substantial. A recent U.N. wind study of countries from China to...
Next-generation wind turbines will be smarter, more efficient, and more reliable than ever before
According to Wikipedia, innovation is a change in the thought process for doing something, or the useful application of new inventions or discoveries. It...
Achieving successful repowering projects
Renewable energy is certainly living up to its name. To provide greater wind production and lower operational costs, wind farm “repowering” is emerging as...
Bolting applications, part 1
It is never a pretty sight to see a wind turbine collapse. Whether it is material fatigue, defective parts, or severe weather that play...
Remote monitoring allows Q&M professionals to check turbine conditions in real time
Turbine manufacturers typically offer a turbine availability guarantee during warranty at 97 percent, and well-maintained projects with the right technology can achieve levels higher...
Focusing on wind turbine controls
As wind turbines continue to grow in size, reports such as the “DOE 20% Wind by 2030” capture the advantages of larger and more...
Having an emergency logistics plan for replacement components
When you fall ill or have a medical emergency, you know whom to call. It is the same with wind power maintenance issues. When...
A vibrant and valuable aftermarket
In a post-warranty environment, owners and operators who seek to reduce O&M costs through parts management must begin with an understanding of the cost...
Accurate computer-based design programs are crucial for high system reliability
Wind manufacturers continue to pursue the design and development of larger machines with larger, lighter, and more-efficient rotors. Along with growth in machine size,...
Controlling offshore supply chain costs
Wind farm management, especially offshore, is a matter of economy: generate greater amounts of energy per area, and reduce the cost per megawatt. However,...
Remote Condition Management
The Moventas CMaS (condition management system) is a remote monitoring system for wind turbine gears. It recognizes possible damages in gears and other mechanical...
Constructing Cable Confidence
The winds of change have definitely been blowing at Consulting Engineers Group (CEG). A wholly owned subsidiary of Dakota Electric Association that provides high-quality,...
