Drones Protect Rotor Blades from Icing

Icing of wind turbines is a major problem in their operation, as it leads to massive yield losses and wear and tear and endangers people in the vicinity. De-icing using helicopters or industrial climbers is extremely time-consuming. Turbine operators who want to protect their wind turbines from icing have had to dig deep into their pockets – heating mats or systems that can be integrated into the blades, systems that pump warm air into the rotors, or the use of lifting helicopters that spray de-icing agents are all associated with high costs. Drones, only used when necessary, offer an inexpensive alternative.