Inspecting internal components of wind turbines involves highly specific conditions: confined spaces, difficult access at height, variable weather (dust, humidity, salt), mechanical parts exposed to fatigue, and a strong need for documented traceability to meet regulatory maintenance requirements.

Video borescope inspection addresses these challenges through a non-destructive, fast and precise approach.

Critical inspection points:

• Gearboxes, brakes, and generators inside the nacelle.
• Welds and fastenings inside the tower.
• Lubrication systems (leaks, levels, deposits).
• Cable pathways and friction zones.
• Structural interfaces (couplings, flanges, bearings).

Technologies suited for the wind energy environment:

• ✅ Dual-view probe (0°/90°): allows simultaneous inspection of the inspection progress and areas of interest without removing the equipment.
  
• ✅ IP67 probes: fully dust- and waterproof, designed for use even in nacelles under humid or saline conditions.
  
• ✅ Real-time comparison: enables instant analysis of defect progression compared to previous inspections.
  
• ✅ Automatic report generation: PDF export including captures, observations, metadata, and technical remarks.
  
• ✅ 3D stereo measurement: enables precise evaluation of defect size and depth directly on-screen.

Other technical advantages:

• Deep inspection over several meters with flexible probes adapted for narrow passages.
• Digital zoom and motorised orientation for precise positioning on targeted cracks or defects.
• Photo/video recording for direct integration into compliance reports.
• High-power LED lighting, essential for unlit areas inside structures.
• Non-disassembly operation, ideal to minimise machine downtime and reduce maintenance costs.

Commonly detected defects:

• Microcracks on welds of the supporting structure.
• Wear on drive systems (pinions, gears).
• Corrosion in access panels and areas exposed to condensation.
• Degradation or misalignment of main shaft bearings.
• Dust or grease buildup blocking cooling.
• Play or sagging in moving parts.

Conclusion

In the wind energy sector, NDT visual inspection using video borescopes offers a fast, precise, and non-disassembly solution perfectly suited to field conditions: narrow nacelles, environmental constraints, height access, and humidity. Thanks to modern technologies such as dual-view imaging, stereoscopic measurement, and automatic report generation, it becomes a key driver to optimise preventive maintenance and ensure the ongoing performance of wind farms.