Käufer Befahrtechnik has started series production of the world's first rotor blade access system with mechanically openable gangways. The new, TÜV-certified K-BP-4 access platform is suitable for all service operations on high-output onshore wind turbines with hub heights of up to 200 m.
The new access system allows for inspection and repair of rotor blades with tips up to 17.5 m away from the tower, which is usually the case with modern pre-bent blades. Rotor blade access systems are susceptible to wind and can quickly flip over, especially when fully telescoped.
TÜV Rheinland certified the new K-BP-4 access system at a wind farm in Paderborn, March 2020.
Source: Käufer Befahrtechnik
Dirk Käufer, Managing Director of Käufer GmbH, says, “With our unique system, service technicians can drive right up to the tower and access the blade from any position. This means they can always descend safely, even on pre-tensioned pre-bent blades. The access system can be used in wind speeds up to 14 metres per second.”
Using the new access system, working hours can be reduced, while operating times and, most importantly, safety, are increased. As the access platform is operated using three cable winches, it is suspended in a very stable way. The cable winches are positioned to ensure all blade areas can be reached, up to just below the nacelle. The hinged side arms make it possible to access all three winches safely, ensuring that emergency descent is always possible. There is no need, in an emergency situation, for technicians to evacuate by rope. The new Tirak winches have a payload of 1 150 kg, sufficient for applications such as this.
Infrared lamps ensure that the service technicians can work optimally even in the cold, the dark and in high humidity. If the customer chooses, Käufer can supply an external weather shelter, which protects the system against bad weather and high solar radiation. This increases the operating times and the protection of technicians to a maximum.
The prototype of the new access system has been tested recently on Vestas, Nordex and GE Wind turbines throughout Europe. Käufer plans to present the K-BP-4 at WindEnergy Hamburg, due to take place 1-4 December, 2020.
Since 1987 Käufer Befahrtechnik has been developing, manufacturing and maintaining temporary and permanent access systems and work platforms for industrial and high-rise structures worldwide. It has become the world's leading manufacturer of rotor blade access systems and access technology for onshore and offshore wind turbines.
The company has its own design office and handles the whole process from product development to manufacture to on-site assembly, repair and service work. It also provides training for rotor blade access systems as well as the inspection and overhaul of Tirak winches. With service points on all continents, Käufer offers its customers support globally.
For more information visit: https://www.kaeufer.de
