Wind Farm Surveying
Turbine siting and cable routes. El-Eman Office provides renewable energy surveying.
Choosing the site and allowing for wind direction
Wind energy surveying starts with analysing the site to identify areas suitable for turbines, based on wind data collected by measurement masts as well as ground information. A map of the site with its levels is drawn to show highs and lows, because the shape of the land affects how the wind behaves and how easy access is.
- The prevailing wind direction is established by studies, and the turbines are arranged so they do not block each other's wind.
- Spacing between turbines is proportionate to rotor diameter and is set by the design studies.
- Distances from roads, existing lines and restricted areas are respected.
Setting out foundations and crane platforms
Each turbine stands on a massive concrete foundation, and the survey work demands high accuracy in three areas:
- Centre position: the centre of the foundation is set out with coordinates from reliable control points.
- Excavation and pour levels: the dig depth and the level of the foundation top are checked closely, because a large error complicates tower erection.
- Orientation of the anchor ring: the embedded steel ring or anchor bolts are levelled horizontally with great care, because any tilt is carried up the whole height of the tower.
Beside each foundation, a level, compacted crane platform is prepared to carry the large weights during erection of the towers and blades. Its dimensions and levels are fixed in advance.
Transport roads and cables
Moving long blades calls for wide curves and limited gradients on roads, so roads are designed from precise survey routes that check bends, heights and road width. Cut and fill quantities are calculated to balance earthworks and reduce hauling of material. The cables linking the turbines to the substation are laid in trenches whose route is set out accurately, and their positions are documented after construction to ease maintenance.
- The final coordinates of every turbine, cable and inspection chamber are recorded in as-built drawings.
- On some projects, any settlement of foundations or roads is monitored at intervals.
Frequently asked questions
Does the site have to be completely level?
No, but the turbine positions, platforms and roads need local levelling, and the cut and fill volume they require is calculated from the digital terrain model.
Why does accuracy matter when setting the anchor ring?
Because any small tilt at the base is magnified at the top of a tall tower and affects the turbine's balance and the life of its components.
Are drones used on these projects?
Yes, to photograph large areas, build the terrain model and track progress, while accurate ground measurements are kept for control and setting out.
