Location – Multiple Sites Across South Sweden
Client – Confidential
Introduction- Drone Blade Inspection Campaign (Sweden)
In November 2024, Highland Access Ltd successfully completed a drone blade inspection campaign across multiple sites in South Sweden. Over four days, we inspected 30 wind turbines using the DJI Matrice 300 (M300) equipped with our autonomous flight solution. This advanced system allowed us to inspect all three blades in under 30 minutes, with only one blade stopped at the 12 o’clock position. The project was carried out by a single competent technician trained in drone operation, GWO (Global Wind Organisation) standards, blade repair, and turbine control. By using drone blade inspection technology, we delivered significant cost savings compared to traditional inspection methods such as rope access or MEWP (Mobile Elevating Work Platform) inspections.
Problem
Wind turbine blade inspections are essential for maintaining efficiency and preventing costly damage. However, traditional methods such as rope access or MEWP inspections are time-consuming, expensive, and often require multiple technicians. These methods also involve higher safety risks and longer turbine downtime, which can impact energy production. The client needed a faster, safer, and more cost-effective solution to inspect 30 turbines across multiple sites in a short timeframe. A drone blade inspection campaign was identified as the ideal solution to meet these requirements.
Solution
Highland Access Ltd deployed the DJI M300 drone with our autonomous flight solution to complete the drone blade inspections. This system allowed us to inspect all three blades of a turbine in under 30 minutes, with only one blade stopped at the 12 o’clock position. The inspections were carried out by a single technician who was trained in drone operation, GWO standards, blade repair, and turbine control.
By using drone blade inspection technology, we eliminated the need for multiple technicians, heavy equipment, and prolonged turbine downtime. The autonomous flight solution ensured consistent, high-quality data collection, while the technician’s expertise ensured smooth operations and efficient project execution.
Process
The project followed a streamlined process to ensure efficiency and accuracy:
Planning: We coordinated with the client to schedule drone blade inspections across multiple sites, ensuring minimal disruption to turbine operations.
Setup: The technician prepared the M300 drone and configured the autonomous flight solution for each turbine.
Inspection: Each turbine was inspected in under 30 minutes, with the drone capturing high-resolution images of all three blades. Only one blade was stopped at the 12 o’clock position, reducing downtime.
Data Processing and Reporting: After completing the drone blade inspections, the collected data was processed off-site by our team. We delivered a comprehensive report to the client, including high-resolution imagery, detailed findings, and actionable recommendations.
Detailed Reporting and Online Portal
At Highland Access Ltd, we provide clear and actionable inspection reports to help clients maintain their wind turbines effectively. Each report includes high-resolution imagery, detailed findings, and prioritised recommendations for repairs.
Clients also gain access to our secure online portal, where they can view inspection reports, track damage trends, and compare previous inspections. This tool enhances transparency and supports data-driven maintenance decisions.
Importance
This project highlights the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of drone blade inspections for wind turbine blades. By inspecting 30 turbines in just four days with a single technician, we significantly reduced costs compared to traditional methods such as rope access or MEWP inspections. Additionally, the use of drones minimised turbine downtime, improved safety, and ensured consistent, high-quality data collection.
The success of this campaign demonstrates the value of advanced drone blade inspection technology in the renewable energy sector. By combining autonomous flight solutions with skilled technicians and concise reporting, Highland Access Ltd continues to provide innovative and efficient solutions for wind turbine maintenance.
Key Benefits:
- Time Efficiency: Inspected 30 turbines in just four days, with each turbine taking under 30 minutes.
- Cost Savings: Reduced costs by eliminating the need for multiple technicians and heavy equipment.
- Safety: Minimised risks by avoiding rope access or MEWP inspections.
- High-Quality Data: Delivered consistent, high-resolution imagery for accurate analysis and reporting.
- Online Portal: Provided clients with secure access to inspection reports, enabling them to track trends and make data-driven decisions.
