North American Windpower: ITI Energy Funds Program To Develop Wind Turbine Maintenance Device

in News Departments > Products & Technologies

by NAW Staff on Thursday 11 January 2007

ITI Energy, Aberdeen, Scotland, is funding a research and development program to create a new lifting device for the maintenance and construction of wind farms - the Orangutan.

The design concept for the device was developed by Oreada Ltd., an Aberdeen-based engineering firm. The technology, initially developed for onshore use, has the potential to be used for offshore applications as well, the company says. ITI Energy is investing up to 3 million euros to further develop the product.

Orangutan is made up of two friction clamps, connected by a hydraulic structure that allows caterpillar-like motion. It works by climbing the wind turbine tower while carrying whatever tooling package is required for the maintenance operation. It can be used for a variety of lifting jobs and can be operated remotely, the company adds.

Don't miss the latest wind energy news -- register to receive NAW's news headlines.

Latest Top Stories

As U.S. DOJ Investigates, Duke Works Adaptive Management Plan

With previous golden eagle fatalities reported at two company-owned wind farms in Wyoming, Duke Energy Renewables is going to great lengths to protect raptors.

DOE To Recast Landmark 20% Wind Energy Report; Study Looks Back, Ahead

The U.S. Department of Energy will update its 20% Wind Energy By 2030 report, which indicated increased levels of wind penetration for the U.S. is not only possible but feasible.

Wind Energy Procurement Top Of Mind For Big-Name Companies

With greater frequency, top-tier companies are discovering the economic and environmental power of wind energy and upping their investments in the resource.

WINDPOWER Panelists Issue A Call To Arms: Protect RPS Mandates

Votes on several legislative bills concerning state renewable portfolio standards (RPS) are nearing. How can you help protect and maintain these development drivers?

Wind Industry Still Awaits First Eagle-Take Permit Under BGEPA

The first wind developer to apply for a take permit under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act has withdrawn its application.