Safe lifetime extension with TÜV SÜD

When a wind energy converter (WEC) approaches the end of its design life, the operating company must decide whether to decommission, repower or continue operating the WEC. TÜV SÜD’s lifetime extension services for WECs verify whether safe continued operation of a WEC or wind farm is possible. The services assess the loads and stresses to which a WEC has been exposed in its previous service life. To do this, experts rely on computer simulations that examine both the design of the WEC and the conditions at its installation site. On top of this, the wind-energy experts conduct on-site inspection of the WEC to assess its actual condition. The lifetime extension services and the associated expert opinion by TÜV SÜD provide wind-farm managers with a detailed report about the state of repair of their WECs. Transparently outlining the risks and opportunities involved in continued operation, this report establishes a sound basis for decision-making.

Wind-energy services by TÜV SÜD

With around 25,000 staff in over 50 countries, TÜV SÜD is among the world’s leading providers of testing, inspection and certification (TIC) services. Its experts draw on comprehensive and multidisciplinary expertise and experience in the fields of onshore and offshore wind energy. The company’s service portfolio includes tests, inspections and assessments of wind turbines and sub-stations as well as their technical sub-systems and components. TÜV SÜD supports planners, manufacturers, installers, investors and operators by providing a full scope of life-cycle services from project design and development, manufacturing, installation and operation to lifetime extension and dismantling. www.tuvsud.com/wind-power