USA: Innovative Wind Turbine Inspection in Michigan and Maryland

Drones Maritime has led an innovative wind turbine inspection project in the states of Michigan and Maryland, setting a new standard in the use of advanced technology to ensure the safety and efficiency of these critical infrastructures. This project, carried out in collaboration with TSR Wind, involved the inspection of 103 135-metre tall wind turbines using drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and thermal cameras.

The team carried out the inspections with a pioneering methodology that allowed them to inspect up to 12 turbines per day, capturing more than 16,000 photographs per day with exceptional accuracy, while maintaining an image error of less than 0.025%. This technology not only improved the efficiency of the inspections, but also significantly increased safety by reducing the need for manual work at high altitude.

Innovation and challenges overcome

  • Technological Contribution: Implementation of advanced drones for early fault detection, reducing turbine downtime and facilitating preventive maintenance.

  • Operational Challenges: Operations in adverse weather conditions and precise navigation at a constant distance of 8 metres from the turbine blades.

  • Complex Logistics: Managing the transport of drones classified as hazardous materials to the US, ensuring their effective deployment.

Impact and benefits

This project has set a precedent for future work, positioning Drones Maritime as a leader in innovative technology solutions within the energy sector. With this success in the United States, Drones Maritime continues to set milestones in the integration of drones and advanced technology in the renewable energy sector, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Location

EE.UU