DNV—GL — CERTIFICATION OF FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS FOR WIND TURBINES

We may all observe the steady and rapid growth of the wind energy industry during the recent years. This relates not only the total number of constructed and installed wind turbines but also to the individual rating and level of sophistication of the wind turbine technology.

The expansion to offshore regions will definitely further drive the development of this technology and increase the investment level. Taking this background into consideration, the demand for reliable and effective protection of the systems and also the investments have significantly grown. It goes without saying that the effective and reliable fire protection system substantially contributes in the risk reduction. Reliable and effective operation of the FPS (fire protection systems), considering both active/passive measures, facilitate the reduction of the risk of bodily injury as well as of damage to the property that may be caused by fires in wind turbines. These systems may even be capable of preventing the total loss of turbine.

This service specification by DNV GL class society is aimed to define and ensure a high quality model for both design and construction of modern fire protection systems. This document will be subjected to frequent revisions in accordance with experiences, new findings in the area and all future technological developments. The authors are intending to set up a common technical basis of understanding for makers of fire protection components and complete FPS with regard to high quality, reliability and operational effectiveness of the products.