Putting wind lubricants to the test, 33 stories high

Developing the next generation of wind turbine lubricants requires researchers to constantly monitor equipment on the ground and up above. Our technicians and researchers are doing just that in collaboration with the Wind Energy Institute of Canada (WEICan). “Every component that moves in a turbine requires a lubricant,” says Andy Doucette, wind turbine technician at WEICan. “Lubricants, like oil or grease, keep friction to a minimum so it’s less likely that parts will malfunction or wear prematurely. Our research collaboration with ExxonMobil is really aimed at creating advanced lubricants that better protect equipment, keeping them running more efficiently for longer.” Technicians like Andy and Andrea climb up the tower to perform maintenance and gather samples for lab testing. But getting those samples – 33 stories above the ground – isn’t as easy as getting your car’s oil changed. Below, see firsthand what it’s like to climb to the top of a turbine.