Project Snapshot
Location: Derrinlough Wind Farm
Project Value: €109,000
Project Timescale: 9 days
Role on Project: Delivery of a full generator replacement
Replacement of a Major Generator Component
Whilst based on site at Derrinlough Wind Farm for over a year assisting with all lifting operations, we undertook the complete removal and replacement of a major generator component on a Vestas EnVentus V162 turbine.
Given the scale and complexity of the component exchange, careful mobilisation, safe lifting supervision, and controlled execution were essential to maintain the highest safety and technical standards. This included ensuring that the lift took place in optimal weather conditions.
AIS Wind Energy Approach to Generator Replacement
To execute the generator replacement safely and efficiently, we deployed a specialised heavy-lift fleet comprising a Liebherr LTM 1650‑8.1 as the main crane and a Grove GMK5130 assist crane. The Liebherr LTM 1650‑8.1 was selected for its exceptional lifting performance, delivering a 700-tonne lifting capacity and an eight-axle all-terrain design. This combination made it ideally suited to the challenging conditions typically encountered on wind farm sites, providing the mobility required to navigate site roads and the lifting capability needed to safely and efficiently handle the generator during the replacement operation.
Our team managed all lifting operations under strict procedural control, ensuring full compliance with OEM specifications and site‑specific requirements.
Proactive scheduling played a critical role in ensuring safe lifting conditions. While the generator exchange itself was completed within a single day, the overall programme extended to nine days to accommodate weather constraints, a risk managed effectively through continuous monitoring and collaboration with site stakeholders, in line with industry best practice.
Precise lift planning, competent crane coordination, and controlled execution ensured the major component exchange was completed smoothly and safely.
