Member Case Study: Wind Turbine Blade Handling Solutions by Pier Solutions

May 2, 2025
Member Case Study: Wind Turbine Blade Handling Solutions by Pier Solutions

Pier Solutions, specialists in modular engineering and bespoke handling systems, were commissioned to design and manufacture a suite of transport and handling frames to support the installation and maintenance of wind turbine blades. The project required solutions that were not only robust and heavy-duty but also met strict weight constraints and were delivered within a demanding two-week timeframe.

Project Scope and Engineering Approach

The client needed a reliable set of frames capable of supporting wind turbine blade operations under challenging conditions. Pier Solutions responded by developing a comprehensive engineering approach, underpinned by structural calculations and Finite Element Analysis (FEA). This ensured full compliance with all lifting and handling requirements and verified the structural integrity of each component under real-world conditions.

Delivered Equipment

Pier Solutions successfully delivered a range of fully certified handling frames, each designed for durability, traceability, and ease of operation. All equipment was supplied with non-destructive testing (NDT) certification and finished with a two-coat marine-grade paint system for enhanced longevity in harsh environments.

Key deliverables included:

  • 1 Skid Base

    • Four heavy-duty 60mm mounting pads

    • Two fork pockets for transport

    • Four integrated lifting eyes

    • Aluminium tread plate for added durability and safety

  • 3 Root End Stands

    • 20mm mounting pads designed to fit the existing root end bolt interface

  • 3 Tip End Stands

    • Two fork pockets

    • Four lifting eyes and four lashing points for secure transport and handling

Outcome

Pier Solutions delivered a fully traceable, certified solution tailored for standard wind turbine blades. The equipment enables safe and efficient installation and maintenance operations while ensuring compliance with stringent safety and certification standards.

Delivered on time and engineered for longevity, this project demonstrates Pier Solutions’ capability to meet complex, time-sensitive requirements in the renewable energy sector.

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AREG has played an important role in the growth of Scotland’s renewable energy sector, engaging the supply chain and developing the European Offshore Wind Deployment Centre. However, we are only at the very beginning of the transition that AREG was established to both lead and support so there are still opportunities for companies to get into the constantly evolving renewables supply chain. We look forward to continuing our work together as renewables builds on its place as Scotland’s main source of power, and as we seek to deliver real change in the crucial areas of heat and transport.

Scottish Renewables
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Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce has worked closely with AREG since its formation. The recent progress in the developments of offshore wind projects by Equinor and Vattenfall are as a result of the work of the group over many years. The north-east is known as the oil and gas capital of Europe. At the Chamber, we believe the region must evolve its position to being recognised as the energy capital. Whilst hydrocarbons will continue to be essential in driving our economy for years to come, the generation of renewable resources will play an increasingly important role in providing cost-effective power, innovative development and economic growth.

Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce
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The enthusiasm and dedication of the early group that would become AREG was fundamental in us choosing to launch All-Energy in Aberdeen. The first tiny show was held in 2001, and AREG’s Chairman at the time, Jeremy Cresswell, played such an active role that I often describe him in terms such as All-Energy’s ‘midwife’. All-Energy is now the UK’s largest renewable and low carbon energy exhibition and conference in terms of number of attendees, space booked, and number of exhibiting companies. As AREG became firmly established, their presence and support for the event grew spectacularly over the years. We thank them most sincerely for their invaluable input.

All-Energy
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Vattenfall has forged a strong working relationship with AREG through the development of the European Offshore Wind Deployment Centre. AREG has worked tirelessly on behalf of the North East and it can take enormous credit for the growth of sustainable energy in the region and the path it has cleared for the region to capture further investment.

Vattenfall
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Aberdeen City and Shire is emerging as a key location for renewables by successfully transferring its world-class oil and gas expertise into the sector and AREG has done much to advance this through a broad range of initiatives. It has acted as a catalyst in driving further investment in the local economy by engaging with companies, Government, public bodies and existing projects and we have been pleased to support their efforts. Scottish Enterprise will continue to engage with AREG as we increase Scotland’s use of renewable energy.

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