ITI Energy is to develop a lifting device, called Orangutan, which will improve the efficiency of maintenance operations on wind turbines.

The technology, initially developed for use onshore, has the potential to be used in the construction of turbines and for offshore applications. Orangutan is made up of two friction clamps, connected by a hydraulic structure that allows caterpillar-like motion. It works by climbing the wind turbine tower, carrying whatever tooling package is required for the maintenance operation. The device can be used for a variety of lifting jobs and can be operated remotely. The design concept for the technology was developed by Aberdeen based Oreada Limited, a private company created by the founders of Boreas Consultants Ltd and James Ingram. ITI Energy will continue to work with Oreada on the project. In addition there is the potential for another four to six Scottish based companies to be involved in specific aspects of the research programme and subsequent commercialisation stages.