SSB-Service launches new rotor blade service

Rotor blades are one of the most heavily stressed components of a wind turbine. In order to ensure their smooth operation and eliminate problems from the outset, SSB-Service GmbH based in Rheine has launched a rotor blade service for wind turbines starting from the beginning of November 2007. Early detection of damage to the blades significantly extends their working life and reduces the operating costs of the wind turbine over the long term. This new service offering rounds off SSB's comprehensive service concept for wind turbine generator systems.

Demand for Complete Service on the rise
The market for wind turbine generator systems is showing continuous growth. More and more wind turbines are springing up and at the same time older turbines are becoming more service-prone. Additionally, banks and insurers are increasingly calling for preventive measures in order to minimize more severe cases of damage to wind turbines. What is required are modern, comprehensive service concepts. "Our aim has always been to offer a Complete Service. Implementing the rotor blade service is simply a logical step towards achieving that goal. We are now able to provide a full service package, carry out repairs as well as system optimizations from the transformer station through to the tip of the blades," says Ulrich Schomakers, managing director of SSB.

SSB is ideally positioned to integrate this new service offering: in addition to the special expertise in the fields of fiberglass and load management, the company can draw on a qualified team of service engineers with many years of experience in rotor blade manufacture, maintenance and repairs. With this modern and integrative service concept, SSB is closing a gap in the service market for wind energy plants and successfully positioning itself as an independent service provider.

Proactive instead of reactive
SSB's preventive rotor blade service ensures smooth operation of the rotor blades and reduces cost-intensive repairs and idle times of the wind turbine generator systems. "Our aim is to guarantee the technical availability of the rotor blades for a long service life," underscores Schomakers.

The range of services offered within the scope of the rotor blade service have a number of advantages for wind farm operators that over the long term can bring down operating costs. Thanks to improvement packages and continuous controls, the preventive measures lead to fewer damages and hence fewer cost-intensive repairs. The rotor blade service allows clients to invest during low-wind periods, so as to avoid idle times and earnings losses during heavy wind periods.

The new rotor blade service is available as part of the service contract or as a separate service for all types of wind turbine. The scope of service includes inspection, surface and structural repairs and prevention and optimization packages, for example improved lightning protection and reduced leading edge fatigue, as well as consulting services for damage appraisal and determining necessary repairs, occurrences of insured events and cost estimates.