SenseWind Proof load Test Rig

Blackfish completed the design of a test rig rail, hydraulic load application system and data aquistion system to successfully validate the SenseWind tower climbing system.

Blackfish Engineering provided SenseWind with a full load test rig to demonstrate their innovative wind turbine installation technology. The SENSE system enables turbines to be assembled at low level and transferred up the tower, reducing installation time and operational risk.

The main goal was to validate the lower-module clamping system for Sensewind’s 2 MW demonstrator.

Blackfish completed the design of the test rail, load application methodology and system design, created the data acquisition system, and then managed the actual load testing and validation of the system on site in Glasgow, delivering SenseWind with clear data on the performance of their system.

Challenge

To demonstrate the full scale SenseWind system under 150 tonnes of axially applied load. It was also critical to determine load sharing, and resistance to contamination.

Approach

Blackfish designed and analysed the main test rig rail, method of attachment to the floor, load application methodology, hydraulic powerpack specification and data acquisition system. Blackfish managed the onsite testing and the safe use of the rig.

Outcome

Over 40 full load tests were completed successfully, proving load sharing, proof loading, failure cases and contamination. The tests were also witnessed by a certification organisation.

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