Hückeswagen, 28.05.2020.The world market leader Käufer Befahrtechnik has started series production of the world’s first rotor blade access system with mechanically openable gangways. The new, TÜV-certified K-BP-4 access platform is suitable for all service operations on all models of high-output onshore wind turbines with hub heights of up to 200 meters.
The new access system allows the inspection and repair of rotor blades with tips up to 17.5 meters away from the tower, which is mainly the case with modern pre-bended blades. Rotor blade access systems are susceptible to wind and can quickly flip over – especially when fully telescoped. “With our unique system, service technicians can now drive right up to the tower and access the blade from any position. This means that they can always descend safely, even on pre-tensioned pre banded blades. The access system can thus also be used in wind speeds up to 14 metres per seconds,” explains managing director Dirk Käufer.
Maximum safety – stability and effective accessibility to all blade areas
Working hours are reduced, while operating times and, most importantly, safety are increased. As the access platform is operated using three cable winches, it is suspended in an extremely stable manner. Due to the positioning of the cable winches, all blade areas can be reached, right up to just below the nacelle. Thanks to the hinged side arms, it is possible to safely access all three winches, thus ensuring that emergency descent is always possible. This means that any emergency evacuation of the technicians by rope is not necessary. The new TIRAK winches have a payload of 1,150 kilogrammes, which means that the access system also has sufficient payload capacity.
Protected in any weather
Infrared lamps ensure that the service technicians can work optimally even in the cold, the dark and in high humidity. If the customer wishes, Käufer can supply external weather shelter, which protects the system against both bad weather and high solar radiation. This thus increases the operating times and the protection of the employees to a maximum.
In recent months, the prototype of the new access system has already been tested on Vestas, Nordex and GE Wind turbines throughout Europe. Käufer will be presenting the K-BP-4 at WindEnergy Hamburg from December 1 to 4, 2020.
About Käufer Befahrtechnik
Since 1987, Käufer Befahrtechnik has been developing, manufacturing and maintaining temporary and permanent access systems and work platforms for industrial and high-rise structures, glass facades and glass roofs worldwide. Since 1999, Käufer has been the world’s leading manufacturer of rotor blade access systems and access technology for onshore and offshore wind turbines.
Käufer Befahrtechnik is your single source for everything. From product development in the company’s own design office and manufacture in its own workshops to on-site assembly, repair and service work, everything is carried out by the company’s own qualified personnel.
Käufer also provides training for rotor blade access systems as well as the inspection and complete overhaul of Tirak winches.
With service points on all continents, Käufer guarantees its customers global support.
