The star of our exhibition was the innovative “Snowflake” project, featuring a groundbreaking mobile robotic bolt tensioning platform. Aligned with our mission of “Equipping the Factory of the Future,” we showcased a demonstrator that integrates multiple innovations designed to transform wind turbine manufacturing.

Project Snowflake combines an automated bolt tensioning end-effector with an industrial robot system mounted on an autonomous guided vehicle, effectively converting a traditionally manual task into a fully mobile and integrated solution. In collaboration with our esteemed partners, PLARAD – Maschinenfabrik Wagner and the Laboratory for Machine Tools and Production Engineering (WZL) at RWTH Aachen University, we have developed this highly flexible assembly system. It not only supports increased production rates but also enhances the reliability and quality of the bolt tensioning process, demonstrating the vast potential of automation in wind turbine production.

Live demonstrations of the system captivated attendees throughout the event. This initiative reflects our vision to enhance quality and streamline work processes through innovative technology, ultimately contributing to the global energy transition.

At the “Forum Production Technology,” organized by our partner WAB e.V., we engaged with industry experts, researchers, and supply chain representatives to discuss the innovations and technologies that will shape the future of production in the wind sector.

Thorsten Schneider from Siemens Gamesa shared insights into OEM expectations for the evolution of production technologies. Dr. Christian Möller from Fraunhofer IFAM highlighted strategies for optimizing shop floors to boost efficiency and throughput, while Norbert Steinkemper from Broetje-Automation and Sebastian Pesdicek from PLARAD discussed the collaborative development of mobile manipulators and automated bolt tensioning within the Snowflake Project.

We were honored to host the WAB Women’s Round Table at the event, bringing together leading women from across the wind value chain to network and share insights. Kerstin Fennen, Project Manager at Broetje-Automation, presented our visionary concepts for future production technologies in the wind industry.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our visitors, and a special thank you to the incredible teams at WAB e.V., PLARAD, and RWTH Aachen University for their outstanding collaboration. Together, we look forward to a bright future for automated production in the wind power industry!