Post-installation Inspection

Photo of a Bergey Excel 10kW turbine mounted on a guyed lattice tower

SOLAR WIND Canada offers the "Care-free Turbine" service to non-SWC installations ¤. The service will combine both 30-day and 180-day inspections into a single on-site inspection scheduled at a mutually convenient date and time. Call 905 321 5211 or click to email SWC for a quote (please include detailed description of the installation - tower, turbine make and model, date of original installation, date of last inspection, etc.).

30-day inspection

A number of visual and physical observations, assessment of the condition of the turbine and tower, and visual assessment of the turbine with the aid of high-powered binoculars are made following the manufacturers' recommendended checklist.

1. Tower inspection
• each anchor point,
• tower foundation,
• ensure all hardware is secure (no loose fittings, cable),
• tension of guy wires,
• inspect guy wires to ensure no strands are broken.
2. Turbine inspection
• visually inspect the rotor blades (condition of leading edges, tip damage),
• observe the turbine to ensure that it yaws smoothly if applicable, aligns itself with the wind properly,
• listen for any abnormal noises or excessive vibration which may be an indication of loose fittings or components,
• stop and start the turbine to ensure proper operations and to observe for any abnormal behaviour.
3. BOS & Storage inspection
• inspect the BOS components and their connections, observe for any abnormal conditions,
• inspect the battery array - check for corrosion, tight connections, electrolyte levels.
4. Client review & sign-off
• review operations and maintenance with the RETS client
• document any client perceived issues, problems, and observations,
• client acceptance & sign-off.

180-day inspection

All of the inspection points listed in the 30-day inspection are repeated for the 180 day inspection with the following additional inspection points :

1. Turbine inspection
• lower the tower and turbine,
• inspect the blades for the condition of the leading edge and for tip damage, apply minor touch-ups if needed,
• clean the unit including rotor blades,
• inspect all fittings and components (ensures that they are secure and not showing signs of wear),
• remove the rotor, and check torque on the blade nuts,
• inspect cotter pins (if applicable) on tail mounting assembly,
• inspect alternator bearings condition, check for play in the shaft,
• inspect furling mechanism (differs with manufacturer),
• inspect wire run, electrical connections,
• check tower mounting torque if applicable.
2. raise the tower and turbine,
3. restart turbine and observe for any abnormal startup sounds.