A small foundation seal with a big consequence
A simple visual check on a turbine foundation can have a real impact on the life of the asset.
Many older turbines use a steel foundation can embedded in the concrete, with the tower bolted to the top flange.
The seal shown here, between the steel can and the concrete plinth, is a small but important barrier. Its job is to stop water getting down the interface between the steel and the concrete.
If that seal is missing or has failed, water can collect in the gap. Under cyclic tower loading, that water can create a pumping action, gradually washing out material around the can.
Left unchecked, the turbine may need an expensive grout repair before it can safely return to operation. On older assets, that repair is not always economic.
A small detail with a big consequence, and a clear reminder of why the right checks matter in any lifetime extension assessment.
Charts and analysis by PowerVeritas. Where open datasets are used, sources are credited on the attributions page.