Field Work
Our field services for wind farms combine technical inspections, non-destructive testing (NDT), and structural measurement campaigns to provide a precise and independent assessment of the actual condition of wind turbines.
From on-site verification of key components to digital capture of geometries using high-precision 3D scans, Nabla Wind Hub’s field campaigns are designed to generate robust technical information that supports informed decisions in operation, maintenance, and life extension of assets.
Technical Inspections
Onshore Wind Farms
Field inspections are a key tool within asset evaluation programs, as they provide insight into the actual condition of wind turbine components and allow estimation of the degree of life consumption based on real operating conditions.
These inspections are suitable both in Life extension projects, Technical Due Diligences, and/or End of O&M assessments.
At Nabla Wind Hub, we perform technical inspections on a representative sample of turbines, selected based on a detailed analysis of:
- Historical SCADA records.
- Maintenance reports.
- Site-specific conditions (wake effect, topography, wind orientation).
- Analytical load results.
Verification of Structural Integrity
Inspections follow a standardized technical checklist and focus on key structural and mechanical components of the wind turbine:
- Foundation
- Tower
- Blades
- Blade bearing
- Hub
- Nacelle
- Main frame
- Yaw system
- Pitch system
- Main shaft and bearing
- Bolted connections
- Hydraulic group
- High-speed shaft and brake system
- Generator
- Transformer
This approach allows for the detection of anomalies that could compromise structural integrity or operational performance.
Advanced Inspections
(On Demand)
When results or operational history require it,
more in-depth inspections can be performed,
including:
Video endoscopy of gearboxes and bearings
Crack measurement in foundations and structures
Thermography on electrical systems
Grease analysis in bearings
Oil analysis in gearboxes
Gearbox–generator alignment checks
Insulation measurements in electrical generators
Magnetic particle testing in gearboxes
Penetrant liquids on welds
Tap tests
Torque verification
Tower verticality verification (laser scanning)
Benefits of Our Technical Inspections:
- Improved condition-based maintenance planning.
- Reduced risk of failures.
- Technical prioritization of interventions based on criticality.
- Support for life extension project decisions.
- Optimization of wind farm availability and reliability.
Wind Turbine Measurement Campaigns
On-site measurement campaigns are an essential part of fieldwork in wind farms, as they provide the technical data required to develop advanced models, such as aeroelastic models and FEM (Finite Element Method) structural models.
At Nabla Wind Hub, we perform these measurements using high-precision technology to capture the actual geometry and structural conditions of each wind turbine, even in the absence of OEM documentation.
High-Fidelity
Technical Data Acquisition
Our teams conduct measurement campaigns tailored to each project,
combining multiple data capture and analysis techniques:
High-precision 3D laser scanning
Detailed capture of the actual geometry of components and structures using 3D laser scanning, generating high-resolution point clouds that allow detection of geometric deviations and feed precise digital models.
Ultrasonic measurements
Non-destructive assessment of the state of materials and structural thicknesses using ultrasonic techniques, enabling the identification of internal defects, material loss, or discontinuities.
Reading and analysis of historical SCADA data
Processing and analysis of historical operational data to characterize real operating conditions, identify load patterns, and validate structural behavior hypotheses.
This combination of data ensures the creation of digital models that accurately represent the real physical behavior of the wind turbine, allowing structural and dynamic simulations with maximum reliability.
3D de alta precisión
Applications of Measurement Campaigns
The data obtained directly feed our advanced engineering solutions, including:
- Aeroelastic models for dynamic simulation and control.
- FEM models for structural analysis and integrity assessments.
- Life extension programs.
- Geometric reconstruction for engineering, inverse modeling, and digital twins.
End of Warranty Inspections for Wind Turbines
End of Warranty Inspections (EoWI), are a key step for wind farm owners and operators before the OEM warranty period expires.
At Nabla Wind Hub, we provide specialised End of Warranty Inspection services for wind turbines, designed to identify defects, premature wear and technical risks before the operator fully assumes responsibility for the asset.
Comprehensive Wind
Turbine Inspections
The scope of our EoW inspections combines field experience, technical analysis and IEC-compliant methodologies to provide a complete overview of the condition of the wind asset at the end of the warranty period. Our services include:
Complete visual inspection of the wind turbine and critical components
We carry out thorough visual inspections of the main structural and mechanical components of the wind turbine, including, but not limited to, the foundation, tower, nacelle, hub, gearbox, generator and transformer. The aim is to identify anomalies, visible defects, corrosion, leaks, premature wear or deviations from expected operating conditions, providing an overall assessment of the asset’s condition.
Detailed blade inspection
Blades are one of the most critical and costly components of a wind turbine. Our inspections enable the detection of surface and structural damage, leading-edge erosion, cracks, manufacturing defects, impacts and other degradation mechanisms that may compromise the turbine’s performance and operational lifespan.
Advanced inspections
When the inspection results or operational history require it, more in-depth targeted inspections can be carried out, including:
- Gearbox borescope inspections.
- Grease and oil analysis.
- Non-Destructive Testing (NDT).
- Among others.
Operational review and O&M documentation assessment
We analyse the turbine’s operational history and the associated operation and maintenance (O&M) documentation, including incident records, work orders, corrective campaigns, recurring alarms and production data. This review helps identify trends, operational risks and potential non-compliances that may be relevant during the end-of-warranty process.
Remaining useful life assessment and structural risk evaluation
We carry out technical assessments aimed at determining the fatigue condition and remaining useful life of key structural and mechanical components. By combining operational data, inspection results and engineering criteria, we identify potential risks and provide valuable insights to support decision-making related to maintenance, lifetime extension or future investments.
Benefits of End of Warranty Inspections
A well-planned EoWI inspection strategy allows you to:
- Detect defects before the warranty expires.
- Reduce technical and financial risks.
- Support warranty claims with technical evidence.
- Optimise maintenance planning.
- Extend the operational lifespan of wind turbines.
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