Some weeks ago I’ve been contacted by a company developing an interesting product – a tailor made protector cap for anchor bolts.
I’ve notices that in some wind farms corrosion of the exposed side of the anchor bolt can be a problem. For instance, it’s not unusual to observe this phenomenon in areas with high salinity (e.g. Chile, or near the sea in the Netherlands).
If rusty, the bolt need to be cleaned before being tensioned. In theory this solution could improve the situation.
The solution, called Boltshield, is a metal cover cap available in several materials like aluminium and carbon coated steel (other similar products are made of plastic).
This cap should protect the upper part of the bolt, the nut and the washer from possible damages.
Additionally, coupled with paste or corrosion inhibitor, should prevent corrosion.
It’s a specific product line for the wind energy sector and apparently is already used in wind farms in several countries (Italy, Finland, Scotland, Lithuania).
They claim that the market response is particularly interesting for the innovative screw-on system that allows an easy and safe screwing on the tie rod.
I didn’t had the opportunity to test this product (and obviously I’m not affiliated or compensated by them) so I can’t assure you that it delivers what promise. If you do have experience please drop me a line.
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