Project Overview
TW Woods was engaged to refurbish and recertify two 110-tonne C-frame lifting beams used for wind turbine blade handling during wind farm construction. This project called for precise weld repairs, surface reconditioning, non-destructive testing, and full recertification demonstrating TW Woods’ capabilities in tackling complex, safety-critical infrastructure with confidence.
Client Requirements & Scope of Work
The lifting beams, each rated for 110-tonne capacity, required full inspection and refurbishment to meet current safety standards for ongoing use in wind turbine installation.
TW Woods was tasked with:
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Repairing and strengthening welds to meet AS1554-1-SP
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Abrasive blasting and painting to renew protective coatings
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Arranging proof load testing and NDT for compliance
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Issuing updated certification for wind farm application
Challenges & Solutions
Structural Integrity:
One of the lifting beams (Beam 2) required significant weld repairs. TW Woods’ expert welding team carried out corrective work to Australian Standard AS1554-1-SP, ensuring structural integrity and durability for future use.
Surface Protection:
Both beams were abrasive blasted to remove worn coatings before being repainted with a durable industrial-grade finish, providing resilience against harsh outdoor conditions typical of wind farm sites.
Verification & Compliance:
TW Woods collaborated with Reliance Hexham to conduct proof load testing, simulating 115-tonne lifts in accordance with AS4991. Each lifting point underwent rigorous non-destructive magnetic particle testing to detect internal flaws and ensure full structural soundness.
Certification:
Following testing, the beams were certified to Australian Standards with NATA-accredited proof load and NDT certification—ensuring safety and compliance for continued service.
Results
TW Woods successfully delivered refurbished lifting beams that met all structural and safety standards, extending their operational life and avoiding the need for costly replacement. The project showcased the team’s end-to-end capability, including welding, blasting, coatings, and compliance management all under one roof.
By restoring these critical assets, TW Woods also supported the renewable energy sector’s sustainability goals through waste reduction and resource conservation.
Key Project Highlights
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Certified Compliance: Refurbished to AS1554-1-SP and AS4991 with full NATA-accredited certification
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Durability Restored: Recoated for long-term outdoor performance in harsh environments
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Sustainable Outcome: Refurbishment avoided full replacement, supporting renewable sector sustainability
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End-to-End Delivery: TW Woods managed the entire process from weld repair to certification
Why TW Woods?
With over 60 years in the industry, TW Woods has built a reputation for getting the job done right first time, every time. Our in-house capability across welding, fabrication, blasting, and industrial coatings means we deliver reliable, cost-effective solutions for the renewable, mining, and industrial sectors.
We can do that.
