Bedplate

The bedplate supports the drive train and the rest of the nacelle components and transfers loads from the rotor to the tower.

Description of Manufacturing Process
The bedplate may consist of a single cast-iron piece or of several cast-iron sections. Sections may be cut using CNC cutting machines before being welded together. They also require CNC milling on all mating surfaces to ensure accuracy.

Description of Supply Chain
Only some companies can manufacture the large bedplates required for the most recent models of offshore wind turbines. Due to the size of these components, they are typically cast and machined close to the nacelle assembly location.

Scottish Opportunity
Relevance to Scottish Supply Chain: Low

Manufacture requires forging capability which is not present in Scotland. Additionally, manufacturers are well established and located close to the turbine nacelle factories in Germany, Denmark and Spain