As turbine inspection becomes an ever-more worthwhile and sought-after skill, it’s perhaps unsurprising that a mini-industry has been set-up to train the inspectors of tomorrow. We take a look at some of the options on offer…
Certainly, DWPA promotes customised training courses tailored to the wind turbine industry, and when it comes to wind turbine gearbox maintenance and inspection training, it believes it offers a comprehensive offering: “Our wind turbine gearbox maintenance and inspection training is designed to enable
Maersk Training, based in Newcastle, has been helping to reduce the acute wind industry skills shortage by running a course for those looking to work as wind turbine blade inspection and repair technicians. The course, Competent Blade Technician (Level 1) Inspection and Repair, is a four day programme approved by Germanischer Lloyd (GL) designed to provide delegates with the underpinning knowledge and skills required to undertake basic inspection, preventative maintenance and repairs to wind turbine blades.
Maersk Training’s Managing Director in Newcastle, Stuart Cameron, said: “With an increasing number of wind turbines approaching the end of their warranty there is an acute shortage of technicians outside of the major OEM’s with the required skills to undertake inspection and repair of wind turbine blades competently.
“Although a subject often shrouded in mystery, around 90% of wind turbine blades are manufactured using the same
resin infusion process and almost all blades are inspected and repaired the same way. This course recognised these facts and has been developed in direct response to the needs of the industry. It is suitable not only for people already working in wind turbine operation and maintenance but also people who might be looking for a new career opportunity, such as ex forces personnel, unemployed people etc. We are confident it will prove very popular.”
Meanwhile, the Danish Wind Power Academy (DWPA) has developed an innovative educational concept for technical personnel working at all levels in the wind turbine industry. The organisation offers a wide range of customised training courses as well as safety and rescue courses, and believe that “after completing DWPA’s programme, our customers feel that they have received targeted and effective training, which means that they benefit from the DWPA courses from day one.”
understanding of gearbox working conditions in wind turbines, as well as how to be proactive and predictive in service matters to avoid expensive shutdowns.
