Inspection of wind turbine bolted connections using the ultrasonic phased array system
Brandon Mills,
Yashar Javadi,
Farhad Abad,
Saeid Lotfian,
Charles MacLeod,
Ali Mehmanparast,
Gareth Pierce,
Anthony Gachagan
Affiliations
Brandon Mills
Centre for Ultrasonic Engineering, Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, UK; Corresponding author.
Yashar Javadi
Centre for Ultrasonic Engineering, Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, UK; Design, Manufacturing, and Engineering Management, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, UK
Farhad Abad
Naval Architecture, Ocean, and Marine Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, UK
Saeid Lotfian
Naval Architecture, Ocean, and Marine Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, UK
Charles MacLeod
Centre for Ultrasonic Engineering, Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, UK
Ali Mehmanparast
Naval Architecture, Ocean, and Marine Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, UK
Gareth Pierce
Centre for Ultrasonic Engineering, Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, UK
Anthony Gachagan
Centre for Ultrasonic Engineering, Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, UK
This study explores the inspection of bolted connections in wind turbines, specifically focusing on the application of Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT). The research comprises four sections: Acoustoelastic Constant calibration, high tension investigation on bolts, blind tests on larger bolts, and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) verification. The methodology shows accurate results for stress while the bolt is under operative loads, and produces a clear indication of when it is above these loads and beginning to deform. PAUT emerges as a promising tool for bolt inspection, offering multiple imaging modes for simultaneous stress monitoring and defect detection. The study advocates for PAUT as a robust method to enhance wind turbine safety, longevity, and future in-situ testing.
