Optional: Visual Inspection · Ultrasound · DFT
Tower inspection: visual survey, ultrasound and coating thickness measurement
Drone-based external survey, ultrasound wall-thickness testing and DFT coating-thickness measurement on the tower. Expert findings report, fixed price per turbine, delivered via the DDI Portal.
15
turbines per day
0
rope access required
48h
report delivery
A wind turbine tower is permanently exposed to the elements. The drone visual survey captures coating damage, cracks and corrosion traces on the surface. Ultrasound wall-thickness testing checks material integrity and residual cross-section without drilling or opening. DFT measurement (Dry Film Thickness) quantifies the corrosion protection coating thickness. DDI carries out the selected methods in one deployment, without rope access, without a climbing team and without extended turbine downtime.
Drone visual survey
The drone surveys the tower from top to bottom. All relevant areas are documented in high resolution: tower surface, weld seams and flange transitions. No access platform, no climbing team, no access permit required.
Ultrasound wall-thickness testing
Ultrasound testing (UT) measures residual wall thickness at critical points on the tower. It detects corrosion under the coating that is not yet visible, and documents the current material cross-section for structural assessment.
DFT coating-thickness measurement
Dry Film Thickness (DFT) measurement verifies that the corrosion protection coating meets the minimum thickness required by standards. Coating that is too thin means higher corrosion risk and can void insurance coverage or warranty.
How we work
Enquiry and planning
Specify turbine count, type, location and scope of testing. We clarify flight restrictions, weather windows and coordination with the wind farm operator.
Drone visual survey
The drone documents the tower externally in a systematic pass. All sections, weld seams and flange transitions are captured in high resolution. The turbine can remain in operation.
On-site NDT testing
In the same deployment, ultrasound wall-thickness and DFT coating-thickness measurements are carried out at pre-defined measurement points with results documented on site.
Findings report in the DDI Portal
The findings report combines results from the visual survey, ultrasound and DFT measurements. Per finding: detailed image, location, defect class and recommended action. Available for download within 48 hours.
Frequently asked questions
Which areas are covered by the tower inspection?
Tower surface (all sections), weld seams and flange transitions. NDT measurements are taken at defined test points on the tower. Internal inspections are not part of this service.
What does the ultrasound test measure exactly?
Ultrasound testing (UT) measures the wall thickness of the tower steel at critical points without removing or opening material. This detects corrosion not yet visible on the surface and documents the current material cross-section for structural assessment.
What is DFT and why does it matter?
DFT stands for Dry Film Thickness: the thickness of the applied protective coating. If the thickness falls below the standard value, the corrosion protection is no longer effective. This can lead to accelerated corrosion, warranty issues and, in some cases, insurance exclusions.
Can the tower inspection be combined with the blade inspection?
Yes. Both inspections can be carried out in one deployment. Contact us about a combined campaign.
How quickly do I receive a quote?
Send us a short message or give us a call. You will receive a binding quote within a few working days.
How usable is the findings report for insurance assessments?
The format is prepared for insurers and independent experts: standardised defect classification, NDT measurement values with position data and high-resolution detailed images per finding.
Request a tower inspection for your turbines
Visual survey, ultrasound and DFT in one deployment. Fixed price per turbine.
Prefer to talk directly?
Book 20-min call with Matthias