Can wind turbine blades be transported?

However, with transporting wind turbine blades routes often have to be adjusted. Due to the large size of the turbine blades, some routes can’t feasibly be traveled. Each state may have regulatory requirements for shipping oversized equipment that might affect which roads you can travel.

Can a wind turbine blade fit a railroad car?

Modern generator blades won’t fit typical 89 feet railroad cars, so specially designed cars may be required for rail transport. The height of blades may also pose problems for rail transport, as some underpasses and tunnels may not be large enough to accommodate wind turbine blades’ transportation.

How are wind turbine components transported?

Wind turbine components can be transported using various transport modes, including ship, rail, and truck. When it comes to building new wind farms and turbines, most of the assemblages that comprise the wind generator must be delivered on trucks at some stage during the transportation process.

What equipment does a wind transport agent use?

To fully support wind transportation demand, transport agents will often use various specialized trailer truck equipment, including extended RGN trailers. Trailers fitted with steer axles are often used to help negotiate sharp turns and intersections.

How much does a turbine blade weigh?

The typical 3-blade assembly can weigh 36 tons combined. Even one blade alone can weigh up to 12 tons, and the extreme length of turbine blades can lead to some travel restrictions. Unlike some components, such as the tower, turbine blades can’t be dismantled for shipping.

How many wind turbines are needed?

To keep up with the demand for wind energy, which is growing by at least 10-percent per year, according to the Global Wind Energy Council, as many as 10,000 new wind turbines will need to be installed over the next two decades. A single wind turbine can be more than 100 meters, and the tower, nacelle, and blades each weigh several tons.