Wind Turbine Installation Methods: Investigating Increasing Turbine Heights

Abstract: There is limited information available regarding the strategies surrounding the construction and logistical issues that will be faced in connection with the up-scaling of wind turbine technology. As wind turbines are manufactured at greater sizes, the industry will need to face these issues head-on to avoid many obstacles pertaining to transportation from the manufacturer to the project site, and the installation of massive turbine components at soaring heights.  The purpose of this study is to supply a preliminary base model to evaluate two factors; the maximum heights at which the most popular installation methods in the industry could be used, and if it is feasible to transport and construct these growing components for a neutral project location. Data was collected from open-ended surveys sent out to industry professionals through networking channels and review of prior literature surrounding the issues in question. This data led to the largest reference turbine for this study being chosen at 20 MW.  The model was then developed by analyzing the load sizes and weights of components for five reference turbines ranging from 5 MW to 20 MW. These were cross-examined with crane load charts and the maximum lifting capacity for helicopters to obtain the results.  This research contributes to the body of previously published works and identifies a model that could be useful for wind power developers looking at constructing projects with very large wind turbines.