POWER March 2021 - 16

FOCUS ON O&M
2. Bolt tensioners are typically used for controlled bolting during installation and maintenance
checks on wind turbines, including the tower foundations. Enerpac has several
tensioners in use on wind installations, including from its PGT-Series, FTR-Series, and FTESeries.
Courtesy: Enerpac
which can provide safer maneuverability.
Push-button square drives and secured
reaction arms are features that allow fast
changes and adjustments, even with
gloves on. Compact designs can offer a
smaller operating radius than larger options.
Other things to evaluate are the
wrench's strength-to-size ratio and flexibility
of use, which can be enhanced
in some cases with an optional tilt-andswivel
manifold for the torque hose.
Bolt Tensioners
Specialized bolt tensioners (Figure 2) are
often used for controlled bolting during
installation and maintenance checks on
wind turbines, including the foundations.
Critical fastening applications for wind
and other power generation applications
are best served by single-stage and double-deck
tensioners, which provide the
speed and accuracy required for safe operation
at the wind site.
There are tensioners designed specifically
for wind tower foundations or base
bolts, such as Enerpac's FTR-Series and
FTE-Series tensioners. These elliptical
and round tensioners provide a fastening
solution on wind tower foundations
where long bolt stretch is required, and
limited space between the stud and wall
prevent the use of standard tensioners.
They feature an elliptical geometry, which
fits in narrow foundation applications, and
exceeds bolt load design requirements.
The torque wrench or tensioner itself
does not do the work alone-it is part of
a system that also includes a hydraulic
16
pump, hose, and accessories. Designing
a solution with components all ergonomically
devised to work together enhances
operator safety and productivity. A complete
system from a single brand means
a functional design that is intuitive to use
through common fittings, safety handles,
and on/off pendant controls, all while ensuring
hand comfort when repeatedly
operating the tools.
Torque Wrench Pumps and
Accessories
Given the number of bolts on a wind tower,
bolting pumps should have high flow, fast
performance, and portability as key advantages.
Cordless torque wrench pumps are
available and can work well for wind tower
maintenance. Some are also designed for
ergonomic, portable, and safe use where
weight and power are critical factors.
Accessories for torque wrenches (Figure
3) and tensioners can make the job
easier and safer. Options are available
today that enhance overall safety using a
patented technology that converts square
drive torque wrenches into hands-free
tools. With one twist of the locking collar,
the accessory minimizes exposure to
pinch points and high-pressure hydraulic
connections. There are also methods
available to instantly validate calibration of
a fully connected torque system on the
job prior to use. This can eliminate the
need for calibration certificates onsite,
and reduces time and expense of sending
tools out for calibration confirmation.
As for tensioners, like torque wrenches,
pairing your hydraulic bolt tensioner
with a compatible bolt tensioner pump
and hydraulic hoses will ensure optimal
productivity. Operators can choose from
air-driven, electric, or manual tensioner
pumps. Electric tensioner pumps can
provide high efficiency with a compact
and lightweight design. For example, a
two-stage pump can provide high flow
at low pressure for fast system fills and
controlled flow at high pressure for safe
and accurate operation.
Bolting Tool Preparation
Operating high-pressure hydraulics requires
sound knowledge of how they
work and how they should be maintained.
The correct use and maintenance
of these tools increases safety
and reduces risk-both for the operator
and for the environment in which
the tools are used. The Occupational
Safety and Health Administration does
not provide standards for high-pressure
hydraulics. A good tools partner can
help improve the safety of your wind
turbine maintenance program. Training
can show technicians how to use tools
properly and minimize risk.
3. Torque wrenches enable faster, easier, and safer maintenance on wind turbines.
New technology is converting some square drive torque wrenches into hands-free tools.
Courtesy: Enerpac
www.powermag.com
POWER | March 2021

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POWER March 2021

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