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Writer's pictureMotus Imaging Solutions

5 Reasons Why Drone Inspections are Crucial for Wind Turbines

Updated: Apr 17, 2023


drone inspection

Drone inspections are revolutionising the way wind turbines are inspected and maintained. By using drone photography, turbines can be inspected quickly and safely from the ground, saving time and money. Drone inspections offer a variety of benefits that make them an invaluable tool in keeping wind turbines up and running. In this blog post, we'll discuss 5 reasons why drone inspections are crucial for wind turbines.

 

Drones can access hard-to-reach areas

Wind turbines come with some inherent dangers when it comes to inspections, particularly when inspecting the most hard-to-reach areas of the turbine. In the past, technicians had to perform high-risk activities to get a close look at a blade's condition. With the advent of drone technology, however, these tasks are no longer necessary.

Using digital imaging and sophisticated drone inspection capabilities, technicians can now inspect even the most inaccessible areas of a wind turbine without having to put themselves at risk. By flying into spaces that were previously extremely difficult to access, drones can get a close-up view of a turbine's blades. This allows technicians to check for any visible signs of damage or deterioration and take action before any major problems arise.



Drones can inspect multiple turbines in a day

Using automated drone inspections, modern drones are capable of covering multiple turbines in a single day. This is thanks to the use of AI inspection tools that help the drone autonomously inspect wind turbines more efficiently than any human worker could. With an automated drone inspection, the drone can fly over multiple turbines, inspect and collect data quickly and accurately. This means that large wind farms can be inspected more quickly and efficiently than ever before. Furthermore, drones don't get tired or need as many breaks as high-risk workers, meaning they can work for longer periods of time and cover more area. This helps ensure that all turbines are inspected regularly and any potential issues can be identified and dealt with quickly and effectively.



Drones can provide real-time data

drone inspection

One of the major advantages of using drones for wind turbine inspections is that they can provide real-time data. Drones are equipped with advanced sensors and digital imaging capabilities that enable them to capture data from a range of angles and heights. This data can be streamed directly to an office where it can be analysed in real-time, giving companies direct insights into the condition of the turbines. Utilising AI, the data can be inspected quickly and accurately, allowing any necessary repairs or maintenance to be carried out immediately. The data is then passed through various automated processing and classification systems, as well as being manually scrutinised by information specialists to ensure its accuracy. The results are often presented as 3D models or other digital representations of designs which makes them easy to interpret.



Drones can be used in nearly all weather conditions

Thanks to advancements in drone technology, inspections can be done even in the most adverse weather conditions. Drone inspection can withstand winds of up to 35mph, allowing them to continue their job while avoiding potential risks to human workers. With infrared and zoom cameras, drones can provide detailed images of the turbine blades and other parts that may need repair. This allows for greater accuracy and reliability in inspections, as well as a much faster turnaround time. This also reduces the number of safety hazards associated with traditional rope and harness inspections, as drones can access hard-to-reach areas without the need for additional personnel. This makes drone inspections a great option for wind turbine maintenance and repairs, especially during the winter season.


Drones are cost effective

When it comes to wind turbine inspections, using drones can be a cost-effective solution. By using drone inspection services, you can reduce the costs of having people inspect and assess your turbines. The price of a drone inspection can be much lower than hiring workers to climb up and inspect the turbines manually. Furthermore, a drone can save you time and labor costs by being able to complete the inspection in much less time than traditional methods. Additionally, with the use of drone photography, digital imaging, and drones with AI capabilities, you can access detailed data about the condition of your wind turbines without having to expend too much effort or money. By leveraging drone technology for wind turbine inspections, you can save yourself time, money, and resources.



 

Final Thoughts

drone photography

It's clear that drone technology is here to stay and it's no surprise that it has quickly become a valuable tool for wind turbine inspections. Drone photography, digital imaging, and other drone inspection services are becoming more and more popular because they can, cover multiple turbines in a day, provide real-time data, and access hard-to-reach areas. Plus, drone inspections are cost-effective and make the job much easier and safer for workers. If you're looking for a reputable drone company near you to perform these inspections, make sure to check out their credentials and read reviews before making your decision.


drone inspection wind turbine


In one of the next articles, we explore what you should look for in a professional drone inspection company to assist you in making an informed decision.




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