By Nick Morrison
Wind Turbines like most electro/mechanical devices do need some maintenance. Conventionally once a year.
Some of the larger units have an internal ladder in the mast, however most of the units in Orkney are lowered to the ground by hydraulic rams.
Some smaller turbines use “Lowering to the ground” as a mechanism to prevent damage by high winds, most Orkney units “feather the prop” .
The maintenance truck has a diesel powered hydraulic pump and also carries the rams and associated tools. Setting up the rams is a bit like changing a bucket on a digger, only these guys have to do it above head height!
Firstly the hydraulic rams have to attached, definitely a 2 person job involving the use of 14 lb sledge hammers, so not for the faint hearted! 
Rams in place and hydraulics connected. 
Last minute checks. 
And down she starts to come. 
And down! 
Maintenance can now start.
