Introduction Modern Agriculture In China
China has made remarkable strides in modern agriculture, revolutionizing its traditional farming practices to meet the demands of a rapidly growing population and evolving global markets.
Embracing cutting-edge technologies, China has implemented precision farming techniques, leveraging data analytics, and artificial intelligence to optimize crop yields and resource utilization. This technological integration allows farmers to make informed decisions based on real-time data, resulting in increased efficiency and sustainability.
China has prioritized innovation in crop varieties and genetic engineering, developing resilient and high-yielding crops that can withstand diverse environmental conditions. This not only ensures food security but also contributes to global agricultural advancements. The adoption of smart farming equipment, such as drones and autonomous machinery, has further streamlined agricultural operations, reducing labor costs and enhancing productivity. China’s commitment to sustainable agriculture is evident through its promotion of organic farming practices and eco-friendly initiatives, aligning with the global push for environmentally conscious food production.
China’s modern agricultural practices are not only a testament to its technological prowess but also demonstrate a commitment to addressing the challenges of the 21st century. By embracing innovation, precision, and sustainability, China’s agricultural sector has become a model for nations seeking to balance the need for increased food production with environmental stewardship. The nation’s achievements in modern agriculture underscore the importance of leveraging technology to create a resilient and sustainable future for global food systems.
China Modern Agriculture Product
China is a leading global producer of various agricultural products, some of the main agricultural products in China include:
1. Rice: China is the world’s largest producer of rice, with substantial cultivation in regions like the Yangtze River basin.
2. Wheat: Wheat is a major staple crop in northern China, particularly on the North China Plain.
3. Corn (Maize): China is a significant producer of corn, used both for human consumption and as animal feed.
4. Vegetables: China is a major producer of various vegetables, including potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and others.
5. Fruits: China is a leading producer of fruits such as apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes.
6. Pork: Livestock farming, particularly pork production, is significant in China, making it the world’s largest consumer and producer of pork.
Modern Agriculture In China: Production Data
Here is approximate production data for some of the main agricultural products in China:
1. Rice (2019): Around 148 million metric tons.
2. Wheat (2019): Approximately 134 million metric tons.
3. Corn (2019): China produced over 260 million metric tons.
4. Vegetables (2019): China is a major producer of various vegetables, with total production exceeding 700 million metric tons.
5. Fruits (2019): Production figures vary by type, but China is a leading producer of apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes, among others.
6. Pork (2019): China is the largest producer of pork globally, with production exceeding 54 million metric tons.
Modern Agriculture In China: Government Policy
China’s modern agriculture success is also attributed to strategic government policies that foster innovation, sustainability, and efficiency.
1. Technology and Innovation Support
The Chinese government has implemented policies encouraging research and development in agricultural technology. Subsidies and incentives are provided to farmers adopting modern techniques, such as precision farming, genetic engineering, and smart machinery. This commitment to innovation enhances productivity and sustainability.
2. Land Reforms
China’s land reforms have played a pivotal role. Policies allowing farmers to lease or transfer land rights encourage consolidation of smaller plots into more efficient and larger-scale farms. This promotes economies of scale, enabling the adoption of advanced technologies and practices.
3. Rural Infrastructure Development
To bridge the urban-rural divide, the government invests in rural infrastructure. Improved transportation networks, irrigation systems, and storage facilities enhance the efficiency of the agricultural supply chain. This development uplifts rural communities and strengthens the overall agricultural sector.
4. Environmental Sustainability
China recognizes the importance of sustainable agriculture. Policies promote eco-friendly practices, including organic farming and reduced chemical usage. The government encourages the adoption of renewable energy sources in farming operations, aligning agricultural practices with environmental conservation goals.
5. Market Support and Price Stability
To ensure farmers’ livelihoods, the government implements policies that stabilize crop prices and provide financial support during adverse conditions. This stability encourages farmers to invest in modern technologies, knowing they have a safety net in challenging times.
In summary, China’s government policies create a conducive environment for the adoption of modern agricultural practices, fostering innovation, sustainability, and the overall development of the agricultural sector.
Modern Agriculture In China: Regulations
Several regulations in China have contributed to the development of modern agriculture.
Here are a few notable ones:
1. Land Contracting Law (2002):
– This law clarified and strengthened land property rights, encouraging the transfer and consolidation of land. It provided a legal framework for long-term land contracts, facilitating more efficient and modern agricultural practices.
2. Science and Technology Progress Law (1995, revised in 2007):
– The revision of this law emphasized the role of science and technology in agricultural development. It provided a basis for incentives and support for farmers adopting modern technologies in aagricultu.
3. Environmental Protection Law (1989, revised in 2015):
– The revised law placed a stronger emphasis on environmental considerations in agriculture. It set standards for reducing
Key Factor for Modern Agriculture in China
Several key factors contribute to the modernization of agriculture in China:
1. Technology Adoption
China has embraced advanced agricultural technologies, including precision farming, drones, and smart machinery. This has improved efficiency and productivity in the sector.
2. Government Support
The Chinese government has implemented policies and initiatives to support modern agriculture. This includes financial incentives, subsidies, and investment in research and development.
3. Research and Development
Investment in agricultural research has led to the development of high-yield crop varieties, improved farming practices, and the adoption of biotechnology in agriculture.
4. Infrastructure Development
Infrastructure projects, such as irrigation systems and transportation networks, play a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities and ensuring the smooth flow of agricultural products.
5. Market-oriented Reforms
China’s shift toward a more market-oriented agricultural system has encouraged efficiency, competitiveness, and innovation in the sector.
6. Education and Training
Programs aimed at educating farmers about modern farming techniques and providing training on the use of new technologies contribute to the modernization of agriculture.
7. Sustainable Practices
There is an increasing focus on sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices to address environmental concerns and ensure long-term productivity.
8. Globalization of Agriculture
China’s integration into the global economy has facilitated the exchange of agricultural knowledge, technologies, and practices, contributing to modernization.
Modern Agriculture In China: Technology Adoption
Indeed, modern agriculture in China has witnessed remarkable advancements in technology adoption.
Here are key aspects highlighting the amazing progress:
1. Precision Farming
China has embraced precision agriculture, utilizing technologies such as GPS-guided tractors and drones. This enables farmers to optimize resource use, reduce waste, and enhance overall efficiency.
2. Smart Irrigation Systems
Automated and data-driven irrigation systems help optimize water usage, ensuring crops receive the right amount of water at the right time. This is crucial for sustainable agriculture, especially in water-scarce regions.
3. Biotechnology
China has invested significantly in biotechnology, including the development of genetically modified (GM) crops with improved resistance to pests and diseases. This enhances crop yields and reduces the need for chemical inputs.
4. Data Analytics and Farm Management
Farmers are increasingly using data analytics to make informed decisions about crop management. This involves analyzing data on weather patterns, soil conditions, and crop health to optimize farming practices.
5. E-commerce Platforms
The integration of e-commerce platforms has facilitated efficient and transparent supply chains, connecting farmers directly with consumers. This has benefits in terms of reducing intermediaries and ensuring fair pricing.
6. Robotics and Automation
Robotic technologies are being employed in various agricultural tasks, from planting and harvesting to sorting and packaging. This not only boosts efficiency but also addresses labor shortages in rural areas.
7. Mobile Apps for Farmers
Mobile applications provide farmers with real-time information on weather forecasts, market prices, and agricultural best practices. This empowers them to make informed decisions and adapt to changing conditions.
This blend of traditional agriculture with cutting-edge technologies has positioned China at the forefront of modern agricultural practices, contributing to increased productivity and sustainability.
Modern Agriculture In China: Artificial Intelligent Adoption
China has made significant strides in adopting artificial intelligence (AI) in modern agriculture, transforming traditional farming practices.
Here’s how AI has been amazing in the context of Chinese agriculture:
1. Precision Agriculture with AI: AI-driven algorithms analyze vast amounts of data, including satellite imagery, weather patterns, and soil conditions. This information is used to make precise decisions on planting, irrigation, and crop protection, optimizing resource utilization.
2. Smart Crop Monitoring: AI-powered sensors and drones are employed for real-time monitoring of crop health. These technologies can detect signs of diseases, pests, or nutrient deficiencies early, allowing farmers to take timely corrective measures.
3. Automated Harvesting: AI-driven robotics and automation are increasingly used for harvesting crops. Intelligent machines equipped with computer vision can identify and harvest ripe crops, reducing labor requirements and improving efficiency.
4. Predictive Analytics: AI algorithms analyze historical and real-time data to predict crop yields, market trends, and optimal planting times. This enables farmers to make data-driven decisions and adapt to changing conditions.
5. Chatbot Assistance for Farmers: AI-powered chatbots provide farmers with instant support and information. These virtual assistants help farmers troubleshoot issues, access market prices, and receive guidance on best agricultural practices.
6. Supply Chain Optimization: AI is applied to optimize the agricultural supply chain. This includes predicting demand, improving logistics, and reducing waste by ensuring timely and efficient delivery of agricultural products to markets.
7. Facial Recognition for Livestock Management: AI-driven facial recognition technology is used for livestock management. This includes monitoring the health and behavior of animals, improving overall farm efficiency and animal welfare.
The integration of artificial intelligence into agriculture in China not only enhances productivity but also contributes to sustainable and resource-efficient farming practices. As technology continues to advance, AI is expected to play an increasingly vital role in shaping the future of Chinese agriculture.
Modern Agriculture In China: International Market Share
China has a significant international market share in various agricultural products. However, specific market shares can fluctuate based on global demand, production levels, and trade dynamics.
Here are some key areas where China has had a notable presence:
1. Rice and Wheat
China is a major exporter of rice and wheat, contributing significantly to the global market for these staple crops.
2. Vegetables and Fruits
Chinese vegetables and fruits, such as apples, garlic, and kiwi, have a substantial share in the international market.
3. Processed Agricultural Products
China exports a variety of processed agricultural products, including frozen vegetables, canned goods, and processed meats.
4. Aquaculture Products
China is a leading exporter of aquaculture products, such as fish and seafood, playing a crucial role in the global seafood market.
5. Tea
China is renowned for its tea production and export, with Chinese tea varieties being widely consumed and recognized globally.
Modern Agriculture In China: General Trends
Here is General Trends for Amazing Modern Agriculture In China
1. Rice and Wheat: China is among the top exporters globally, with a substantial market share in the international trade of rice and wheat.
2. Vegetables and Fruits: China exports a significant amount of vegetables and fruits to various countries. For example, it has a notable presence in the global garlic market, being a major supplier.
3. Processed Agricultural Products: China’s processed agricultural products, including frozen vegetables, canned goods, and processed meats, contribute to its presence in international markets.
4. Aquaculture Products: China is a major exporter of fish and seafood, ranking high in the global seafood market.
5. Tea: China is one of the largest tea producers and exporters globally, with a substantial market share in the international tea trade.
Modern Agriculture In China: Private Sector Contributions
The private sector has played a pivotal role in the amazing advancements of modern agriculture in China.
Here are key contributions:
1. Technology Innovation
Private companies in China have been at the forefront of developing and implementing cutting-edge agricultural technologies. This includes precision farming equipment, drones, AI-driven solutions, and smart irrigation systems.
2. Investment in Research and Development
Private enterprises invest significantly in research and development to create new crop varieties, improve agricultural practices, and enhance overall efficiency. This has led to innovations that benefit both large-scale and small-scale farmers.
3. E-commerce Platforms
Private sector companies have created and expanded e-commerce platforms for agricultural products. These platforms connect farmers directly with consumers, facilitating efficient and transparent transactions while ensuring fair pricing.
4. Supply Chain Optimization
Private firms contribute to optimizing the agricultural supply chain. This involves leveraging technology to streamline logistics, reduce waste, and improve the overall efficiency of getting products from farms to markets.
5. Farm Management Software
Private companies develop and provide farmers with advanced farm management software. These tools utilize data analytics to offer insights on crop health, weather patterns, and optimal planting times, empowering farmers to make informed decisions.
6. Biotechnology Advancements
Private sector contributions to biotechnology have led to the development of genetically modified crops with improved resistance to pests and diseases. This has enhanced crop yields and sustainability.
7. Financial Support for Farmers
Private enterprises provide financial support to farmers through various means, including loans and investment in agricultural projects. This support helps farmers adopt modern technologies and improve their overall productivity.
The collaboration between the private sector, government initiatives, and research institutions has created a dynamic environment for the advancement of modern agriculture in China. Private companies continue to drive innovation, foster sustainability, and contribute significantly to the overall growth and efficiency of the agricultural sector.
Modern Agriculture In China: Company Support
Here are some companies that have played roles in advancing modern agriculture in China:
1. Alibaba Group: Through its affiliate Ant Group, Alibaba has been involved in developing digital agriculture platforms, connecting farmers with consumers and providing data-driven insights.
2. JD.com (JD): JD has invested in smart agriculture technologies, including drone and robotics applications for crop monitoring and precision farming.
3. Baidu: Known for its involvement in artificial intelligence, Baidu has explored AI applications in agriculture, such as developing smart irrigation systems and crop monitoring solutions.
4. Hunan Valin Xiangtan Iron and Steel: This company has ventured into vertical farming, using technology to grow crops in controlled environments.
5. BYD Company Ltd.: Primarily known for electric vehicles, BYD has also entered the agriculture sector with innovations like solar-powered agricultural equipment.
6. Win-All Hi-Tech Seed Co. Ltd.: This Chinese seed company has focused on research and development in agriculture, contributing to advancements in crop genetics.
It’s essential to note that the landscape of companies involved in modern agriculture in China is diverse and dynamic. New players may have emerged, and existing ones may have evolved their strategies.
Modern Agriculture In China: Financial Support
The modernization of agriculture in China has been supported by various financial initiatives, including government policies and private sector investments.
Here are key aspects of financial support contributing to the advancements:
1. Government Subsidies
The Chinese government provides subsidies to farmers to encourage the adoption of modern agricultural practices. These subsidies may cover aspects such as technology adoption, equipment purchase, and sustainable farming methods.
2. Rural Credit Cooperatives
China has established rural credit cooperatives that offer financial services to farmers, including loans for agricultural development, machinery purchase, and infrastructure improvement.
3. Agricultural Development Banks
Specialized banks, such as the Agricultural Development Bank of China, focus on providing financial support to the agricultural sector. These institutions offer loans and credit facilities to farmers and agricultural businesses.
4. Technology Innovation Funds
Government and private sector initiatives invest in technology innovation funds specifically dedicated to advancing modern agricultural technologies. These funds support research and development projects, fostering innovation in the sector.
5. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
Collaborations between the government and private enterprises involve financial support for agricultural projects. This includes initiatives to improve infrastructure, implement new technologies, and enhance overall agricultural productivity.
6. Insurance Programs
To mitigate risks associated with agriculture, the government has implemented agricultural insurance programs. These programs provide financial protection to farmers in case of crop failure, natural disasters, or other unforeseen events.
7. Investment from Agricultural Corporations
Private companies and agricultural corporations in China invest in modern agriculture. Their financial support goes into technology adoption, research, and the development of sustainable farming practices.
8. Microfinance Initiatives
Microfinance institutions and initiatives provide small loans to individual farmers and agricultural cooperatives, promoting financial inclusion and supporting local farming communities.
These diverse financial support mechanisms contribute to creating an environment where farmers and agricultural businesses in China can embrace modern practices, adopt advanced technologies, and improve overall productivity and sustainability.
Modern Agriculture In China: Infrastructure and Supply chain
China has made remarkable strides in modernizing its agriculture sector through extensive investments in infrastructure and supply chain improvements. The country has implemented advanced technologies like precision farming, drones, and smart irrigation systems to enhance productivity.
Let’s consider an example of modern agriculture in China, specifically focusing on high-tech greenhouse cultivation.
Infrastructure
China has invested heavily in state-of-the-art greenhouse facilities equipped with automated climate control systems, advanced irrigation technologies, and soil monitoring sensors. These greenhouses are designed to optimize growing conditions, providing a controlled environment for crops throughout the year.
Supply Chain
Once crops are ready for harvest, an efficient supply chain comes into play. Automated harvesting equipment is used to gather the produce, minimizing manual labor and ensuring speed and precision. The harvested goods are then transported using a well-connected network of refrigerated trucks, maintaining the freshness of the produce during transit.
Technology Integration
In this modern agriculture example, technology plays a crucial role. Drones are employed for aerial surveys, collecting data on crop health and growth patterns. Artificial intelligence algorithms analyze this data, helping farmers make informed decisions regarding irrigation, fertilization, and pest control.
Market Access
To ensure a smooth market connection, an online platform allows farmers to connect directly with consumers or distributors. This facilitates transparent transactions and provides consumers with information about the origin and quality of the produce.
This integrated approach in infrastructure, supply chain management, and technology adoption exemplifies China’s commitment to advancing its agriculture sector.
Additionally, China has developed comprehensive transportation networks and cold chain facilities to efficiently transport and store agricultural products. These advancements contribute to the overall efficiency and sustainability of China’s agriculture, ensuring a reliable supply chain for both domestic consumption and international trade.
Future of Modern Agriculture In China
The future of modern agriculture in China is likely to be shaped by several key trends and factors:
Technological Advancements: Continued integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, and the Internet of Things (IoT) will play a crucial role. Smart farming practices, precision agriculture, and robotics are expected to become more widespread.
Sustainable Agriculture: China is likely to place increased emphasis on sustainability and environmental conservation. Practices that focus on soil health, water conservation, and reduced use of chemical inputs may gain prominence.
Biotechnology and Genetically Modified Crops: Research and development in biotechnology, including the creation of genetically modified crops, may continue to address challenges such as pests, diseases, and climate change impacts.
Digitalization of Agriculture: The digital transformation of agriculture is expected to accelerate, with farmers adopting digital platforms for crop management, market access, and real-time decision-making.
Urban Agriculture and Vertical Farming: Given the rapid urbanization in China, there could be a growing trend toward urban agriculture and vertical farming. These practices can help address space constraints and reduce transportation distances.
E-commerce Integration: The integration of e-commerce platforms in agriculture is likely to expand. Direct-to-consumer models and online marketplaces can provide farmers with broader market access and consumers with fresher produce.
Government Initiatives: China’s government is expected to continue supporting modernization efforts through policies, subsidies, and incentives. Initiatives may focus on rural development, technology adoption, and sustainable practices.
Global Collaboration: China may increasingly engage in international collaborations and partnerships to share knowledge, technologies, and best practices in agriculture. This could contribute to global food security and sustainable agricultural development.
Climate Resilience: With the increasing impact of climate change, there may be a greater focus on developing crops and practices resilient to extreme weather conditions, ensuring food security in the face of changing climate patterns.
Consumer Preferences: Shifting consumer preferences for healthier and more sustainably produced food may influence agricultural practices. This could lead to increased demand for organic and locally sourced products.
The future of modern agriculture in China will likely involve a holistic approach that balances technological innovation, environmental sustainability, and the socio-economic well-being of rural communities. Ongoing developments in policy, technology, and global markets will continue to shape the trajectory of agriculture in China.
Conclusion for Modern Agriculture In China
The trajectory of modern agriculture in China is characterized by a remarkable fusion of technological innovation, sustainable practices, and strategic financial support.
The dynamic landscape has seen the rapid adoption of cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, precision farming, and smart irrigation. Government initiatives, subsidies, and collaboration with the private sector have played pivotal roles in driving this agricultural revolution.
Notable achievements include China’s position as a global leader in the production of staple crops like rice and wheat, coupled with advancements in biotechnology and genetic engineering. The integration of e-commerce platforms has facilitated efficient supply chains, connecting farmers directly with consumers.
Looking ahead, the future of modern agriculture in China holds promises of continued technological advancements, increased emphasis on sustainability, and potential shifts in consumer preferences. Collaboration on a global scale, climate resilience, and ongoing government support are expected to shape the evolving landscape of agriculture in China, ensuring food security and fostering innovation in this critical sector.
https://www.exaputra.com/2023/12/amazing-modern-agriculture-in-china.html
Renewable Energy
BladeBUG Tackles Serial Blade Defects with Robotics
Weather Guard Lightning Tech

BladeBUG Tackles Serial Blade Defects with Robotics
Chris Cieslak, CEO of BladeBug, joins the show to discuss how their walking robot is making ultrasonic blade inspections faster and more accessible. They cover new horizontal scanning capabilities for lay down yards, blade root inspections for bushing defects, and plans to expand into North America in 2026.
Sign up now for Uptime Tech News, our weekly newsletter on all things wind technology. This episode is sponsored by Weather Guard Lightning Tech. Learn more about Weather Guard’s StrikeTape Wind Turbine LPS retrofit. Follow the show on YouTube, Linkedin and visit Weather Guard on the web. And subscribe to Rosemary’s “Engineering with Rosie” YouTube channel here. Have a question we can answer on the show? Email us!
Welcome to Uptime Spotlight, shining Light on Wind. Energy’s brightest innovators. This is the Progress Powering Tomorrow.
Allen Hall: Chris, welcome back to the show.
Chris Cieslak: It’s great to be back. Thank you very much for having me on again.
Allen Hall: It’s great to see you in person, and a lot has been happening at Blade Bugs since the last time I saw Blade Bug in person. Yeah, the robot. It looks a lot different and it has really new capabilities.
Chris Cieslak: So we’ve continued to develop our ultrasonic, non-destructive testing capabilities of the blade bug robot.
Um, but what we’ve now added to its capabilities is to do horizontal blade scans as well. So we’re able to do blades that are in lay down yards or blades that have come down for inspections as well as up tower. So we can do up tower, down tower inspections. We’re trying to capture. I guess the opportunity to inspect blades after transportation when they get delivered to site, to look [00:01:00] for any transport damage or anything that might have been missed in the factory inspections.
And then we can do subsequent installation inspections as well to make sure there’s no mishandling damage on those blades. So yeah, we’ve been just refining what we can do with the NDT side of things and improving its capabilities
Joel Saxum: was that need driven from like market response and people say, Hey, we need, we need.
We like the blade blood product. We like what you’re doing, but we need it here. Or do you guys just say like, Hey, this is the next, this is the next thing we can do. Why not?
Chris Cieslak: It was very much market response. We had a lot of inquiries this year from, um, OEMs, blade manufacturers across the board with issues within their blades that need to be inspected on the ground, up the tap, any which way they can.
There there was no, um, rhyme or reason, which was better, but the fact that he wanted to improve the ability of it horizontally has led the. Sort of modifications that you’ve seen and now we’re doing like down tower, right? Blade scans. Yeah. A really fast breed. So
Joel Saxum: I think the, the important thing there is too is that because of the way the robot is built [00:02:00] now, when you see NDT in a factory, it’s this robot rolls along this perfectly flat concrete floor and it does this and it does that.
But the way the robot is built, if a blade is sitting in a chair trailing edge up, or if it’s flap wise, any which way the robot can adapt to, right? And the idea is. We, we looked at it today and kind of the new cage and the new things you have around it with all the different encoders and for the heads and everything is you can collect data however is needed.
If it’s rasterized, if there’s a vector, if there’s a line, if we go down a bond line, if we need to scan a two foot wide path down the middle of the top of the spa cap, we can do all those different things and all kinds of orientations. That’s a fantastic capability.
Chris Cieslak: Yeah, absolutely. And it, that’s again for the market needs.
So we are able to scan maybe a meter wide in one sort of cord wise. Pass of that probe whilst walking in the span-wise direction. So we’re able to do that raster scan at various spacing. So if you’ve got a defect that you wanna find that maximum 20 mil, we’ll just have a 20 mil step [00:03:00] size between each scan.
If you’ve got a bigger tolerance, we can have 50 mil, a hundred mil it, it’s so tuneable and it removes any of the variability that you get from a human to human operator doing that scanning. And this is all about. Repeatable, consistent high quality data that you can then use to make real informed decisions about the state of those blades and act upon it.
So this is not about, um, an alternative to humans. It’s just a better, it’s just an evolution of how humans do it. We can just do it really quick and it’s probably, we, we say it’s like six times faster than a human, but actually we’re 10 times faster. We don’t need to do any of the mapping out of the blade, but it’s all encoded all that data.
We know where the robot is as we walk. That’s all captured. And then you end up with really. Consistent data. It doesn’t matter who’s operating a robot, the robot will have those settings preset and you just walk down the blade, get that data, and then our subject matter experts, they’re offline, you know, they are in their offices, warm, cozy offices, reviewing data from multiple sources of robots.
And it’s about, you know, improving that [00:04:00] efficiency of getting that report out to the customer and letting ’em know what’s wrong with their blades, actually,
Allen Hall: because that’s always been the drawback of, with NDT. Is that I think the engineers have always wanted to go do it. There’s been crush core transportation damage, which is sometimes hard to see.
You can maybe see a little bit of a wobble on the blade service, but you’re not sure what’s underneath. Bond line’s always an issue for engineering, but the cost to take a person, fly them out to look at a spot on a blade is really expensive, especially someone who is qualified. Yeah, so the, the difference now with play bug is you can have the technology to do the scan.
Much faster and do a lot of blades, which is what the de market demand is right now to do a lot of blades simultaneously and get the same level of data by the review, by the same expert just sitting somewhere else.
Chris Cieslak: Absolutely.
Joel Saxum: I think that the quality of data is a, it’s something to touch on here because when you send someone out to the field, it’s like if, if, if I go, if I go to the wall here and you go to the wall here and we both take a paintbrush, we paint a little bit [00:05:00] different, you’re probably gonna be better.
You’re gonna be able to reach higher spots than I can.
Allen Hall: This is true.
Joel Saxum: That’s true. It’s the same thing with like an NDT process. Now you’re taking the variability of the technician out of it as well. So the data quality collection at the source, that’s what played bug ducts.
Allen Hall: Yeah,
Joel Saxum: that’s the robotic processes.
That is making sure that if I scan this, whatever it may be, LM 48.7 and I do another one and another one and another one, I’m gonna get a consistent set of quality data and then it’s goes to analysis. We can make real decisions off.
Allen Hall: Well, I, I think in today’s world now, especially with transportation damage and warranties, that they’re trying to pick up a lot of things at two years in that they could have picked up free installation.
Yeah. Or lifting of the blades. That world is changing very rapidly. I think a lot of operators are getting smarter about this, but they haven’t thought about where do we go find the tool.
Speaker: Yeah.
Allen Hall: And, and I know Joel knows that, Hey, it, it’s Chris at Blade Bug. You need to call him and get to the technology.
But I think for a lot of [00:06:00] operators around the world, they haven’t thought about the cost They’re paying the warranty costs, they’re paying the insurance costs they’re paying because they don’t have the set of data. And it’s not tremendously expensive to go do. But now the capability is here. What is the market saying?
Is it, is it coming back to you now and saying, okay, let’s go. We gotta, we gotta mobilize. We need 10 of these blade bugs out here to go, go take a scan. Where, where, where are we at today?
Chris Cieslak: We’ve hads. Validation this year that this is needed. And it’s a case of we just need to be around for when they come back round for that because the, the issues that we’re looking for, you know, it solves the problem of these new big 80 a hundred meter plus blades that have issues, which shouldn’t.
Frankly exist like process manufacturer issues, but they are there. They need to be investigated. If you’re an asset only, you wanna know that. Do I have a blade that’s likely to fail compared to one which is, which is okay? And sort of focus on that and not essentially remove any uncertainty or worry that you have about your assets.
’cause you can see other [00:07:00] turbine blades falling. Um, so we are trying to solve that problem. But at the same time, end of warranty claims, if you’re gonna be taken over these blades and doing the maintenance yourself, you wanna know that what you are being given. It hasn’t gotten any nasties lurking inside that’s gonna bite you.
Joel Saxum: Yeah.
Chris Cieslak: Very expensively in a few years down the line. And so you wanna be able to, you know, tick a box, go, actually these are fine. Well actually these are problems. I, you need to give me some money so I can perform remedial work on these blades. And then you end of life, you know, how hard have they lived?
Can you do an assessment to go, actually you can sweat these assets for longer. So we, we kind of see ourselves being, you know, useful right now for the new blades, but actually throughout the value chain of a life of a blade. People need to start seeing that NDT ultrasonic being one of them. We are working on other forms of NDT as well, but there are ways of using it to just really remove a lot of uncertainty and potential risk for that.
You’re gonna end up paying through the, you know, through the, the roof wall because you’ve underestimated something or you’ve missed something, which you could have captured with a, with a quick inspection.
Joel Saxum: To [00:08:00] me, NDT has been floating around there, but it just hasn’t been as accessible or easy. The knowledge hasn’t been there about it, but the what it can do for an operator.
In de-risking their fleet is amazing. They just need to understand it and know it. But you guys with the robotic technology to me, are bringing NDT to the masses
Chris Cieslak: Yeah.
Joel Saxum: In a way that hasn’t been able to be done, done before
Chris Cieslak: that. And that that’s, we, we are trying to really just be able to roll it out at a way that you’re not limited to those limited experts in the composite NDT world.
So we wanna work with them, with the C-N-C-C-I-C NDTs of this world because they are the expertise in composite. So being able to interpret those, those scams. Is not a quick thing to become proficient at. So we are like, okay, let’s work with these people, but let’s give them the best quality data, consistent data that we possibly can and let’s remove those barriers of those limited people so we can roll it out to the masses.
Yeah, and we are that sort of next level of information where it isn’t just seen as like a nice to have, it’s like an essential to have, but just how [00:09:00] we see it now. It’s not NDT is no longer like, it’s the last thing that we would look at. It should be just part of the drones. It should inspection, be part of the internal crawlers regimes.
Yeah, it’s just part of it. ’cause there isn’t one type of inspection that ticks all the boxes. There isn’t silver bullet of NDT. And so it’s just making sure that you use the right system for the right inspection type. And so it’s complementary to drones, it’s complimentary to the internal drones, uh, crawlers.
It’s just the next level to give you certainty. Remove any, you know, if you see something indicated on a a on a photograph. That doesn’t tell you the true picture of what’s going on with the structure. So this is really about, okay, I’ve got an indication of something there. Let’s find out what that really is.
And then with that information you can go, right, I know a repair schedule is gonna take this long. The downtime of that turbine’s gonna be this long and you can plan it in. ’cause everyone’s already got limited budgets, which I think why NDT hasn’t taken off as it should have done because nobody’s got money for more inspections.
Right. Even though there is a money saving to be had long term, everyone is fighting [00:10:00] fires and you know, they’ve really got a limited inspection budget. Drone prices or drone inspections have come down. It’s sort, sort of rise to the bottom. But with that next value add to really add certainty to what you’re trying to inspect without, you know, you go to do a day repair and it ends up being three months or something like, well
Allen Hall: that’s the lightning,
Joel Saxum: right?
Allen Hall: Yeah. Lightning is the, the one case where every time you start to scarf. The exterior of the blade, you’re not sure how deep that’s going and how expensive it is. Yeah, and it always amazes me when we talk to a customer and they’re started like, well, you know, it’s gonna be a foot wide scarf, and now we’re into 10 meters and now we’re on the inside.
Yeah. And the outside. Why did you not do an NDT? It seems like money well spent Yeah. To do, especially if you have a, a quantity of them. And I think the quantity is a key now because in the US there’s 75,000 turbines worldwide, several hundred thousand turbines. The number of turbines is there. The number of problems is there.
It makes more financial sense today than ever because drone [00:11:00]information has come down on cost. And the internal rovers though expensive has also come down on cost. NDT has also come down where it’s now available to the masses. Yeah. But it has been such a mental barrier. That barrier has to go away. If we’re going going to keep blades in operation for 25, 30 years, I
Joel Saxum: mean, we’re seeing no
Allen Hall: way you can do it
Joel Saxum: otherwise.
We’re seeing serial defects. But the only way that you can inspect and or control them is with NDT now.
Allen Hall: Sure.
Joel Saxum: And if we would’ve been on this years ago, we wouldn’t have so many, what is our term? Blade liberations liberating
Chris Cieslak: blades.
Joel Saxum: Right, right.
Allen Hall: What about blade route? Can the robot get around the blade route and see for the bushings and the insert issues?
Chris Cieslak: Yeah, so the robot can, we can walk circumferentially around that blade route and we can look for issues which are affecting thousands of blades. Especially in North America. Yeah.
Allen Hall: Oh yeah.
Chris Cieslak: So that is an area that is. You know, we are lucky that we’ve got, um, a warehouse full of blade samples or route down to tip, and we were able to sort of calibrate, verify, prove everything in our facility to [00:12:00] then take out to the field because that is just, you know, NDT of bushings is great, whether it’s ultrasonic or whether we’re using like CMS, uh, type systems as well.
But we can really just say, okay, this is the area where the problem is. This needs to be resolved. And then, you know, we go to some of the companies that can resolve those issues with it. And this is really about played by being part of a group of technologies working together to give overall solutions
Allen Hall: because the robot’s not that big.
It could be taken up tower relatively easily, put on the root of the blade, told to walk around it. You gotta scan now, you know. It’s a lot easier than trying to put a technician on ropes out there for sure.
Chris Cieslak: Yeah.
Allen Hall: And the speed up it.
Joel Saxum: So let’s talk about execution then for a second. When that goes to the field from you, someone says, Chris needs some help, what does it look like?
How does it work?
Chris Cieslak: Once we get a call out, um, we’ll do a site assessment. We’ve got all our rams, everything in place. You know, we’ve been on turbines. We know the process of getting out there. We’re all GWO qualified and go to site and do their work. Um, for us, we can [00:13:00] turn up on site, unload the van, the robot is on a blade in less than an hour.
Ready to inspect? Yep. Typically half an hour. You know, if we’ve been on that same turbine a number of times, it’s somewhere just like clockwork. You know, muscle memory comes in, you’ve got all those processes down, um, and then it’s just scanning. Our robot operator just presses a button and we just watch it perform scans.
And as I said, you know, we are not necessarily the NDT experts. We obviously are very mindful of NDT and know what scans look like. But if there’s any issues, we have a styling, we dial in remote to our supplement expert, they can actually remotely take control, change the settings, parameters.
Allen Hall: Wow.
Chris Cieslak: And so they’re virtually present and that’s one of the beauties, you know, you don’t need to have people on site.
You can have our general, um, robot techs to do the work, but you still have that comfort of knowing that the data is being overlooked if need be by those experts.
Joel Saxum: The next level, um, commercial evolution would be being able to lease the kit to someone and or have ISPs do it for [00:14:00] you guys kinda globally, or what is the thought
Chris Cieslak: there?
Absolutely. So. Yeah, so we to, to really roll this out, we just wanna have people operate in the robots as if it’s like a drone. So drone inspection companies are a classic company that we see perfectly aligned with. You’ve got the sky specs of this world, you know, you’ve got drone operator, they do a scan, they can find something, put the robot up there and get that next level of information always straight away and feed that into their systems to give that insight into that customer.
Um, you know, be it an OEM who’s got a small service team, they can all be trained up. You’ve got general turbine technicians. They’ve all got G We working at height. That’s all you need to operate the bay by road, but you don’t need to have the RAA level qualified people, which are in short supply anyway.
Let them do the jobs that we are not gonna solve. They can do the big repairs we are taking away, you know, another problem for them, but giving them insights that make their job easier and more successful by removing any of those surprises when they’re gonna do that work.
Allen Hall: So what’s the plans for 2026 then?
Chris Cieslak: 2026 for us is to pick up where 2025 should have ended. [00:15:00] So we were, we were meant to be in the States. Yeah. On some projects that got postponed until 26. So it’s really, for us North America is, um, what we’re really, as you said, there’s seven, 5,000 turbines there, but there’s also a lot of, um, turbines with known issues that we can help determine which blades are affected.
And that involves blades on the ground, that involves blades, uh, that are flying. So. For us, we wanna get out to the states as soon as possible, so we’re working with some of the OEMs and, and essentially some of the asset owners.
Allen Hall: Chris, it’s so great to meet you in person and talk about the latest that’s happening.
Thank you. With Blade Bug, if people need to get ahold of you or Blade Bug, how do they do that?
Chris Cieslak: I, I would say LinkedIn is probably the best place to find myself and also Blade Bug and contact us, um, through that.
Allen Hall: Alright, great. Thanks Chris for joining us and we will see you at the next. So hopefully in America, come to America sometime.
We’d love to see you there.
Chris Cieslak: Thank you very [00:16:00] much.
Renewable Energy
Understanding the U.S. Constitution
Hillsdale College is a rightwing Christian extremist organization that ostensibly honors the United States Constitution.
Here’s their quiz, which should be called the “Constitutional Trivia Quiz.”, whose purpose is obviously to convince Americans of their ignorance.
When I teach, I’m going for understanding of the topic, not the memorization of useless information.
Renewable Energy
Bravery Meets Tragedy: An Unending Story
Here’s a story:
He had 3 days left until graduation.
Kendrick Castillo was 18. A robotics student. College bound. Accepted into an engineering program. The final week of school felt like countdown, not crisis.
Then a weapon appeared inside a classroom.
Students froze.
Kendrick did not.
Witnesses say he moved instantly. He lunged toward the attacker. No hesitation. No calculation.
Two other students followed his lead.
Gunfire erupted.
Kendrick was fatally sh*t.
But his movement changed the room.
Classmates were able to tackle and restrain the attacker until authorities arrived. Investigators later stated that the confrontation disrupted the attack and likely prevented additional casualties.
In seconds, an 18-year-old made a decision most adults pray they never face.
Afterward, the silence was heavier than the noise.
At graduation, his name was called.
His diploma was awarded posthumously. The arena stood in collective applause. An empty seat. A cap and gown without the student inside it.
His robotics teammates remembered him as curious. Competitive. Kind. Someone who solved problems instead of avoiding them.
He had planned to build machines.
Instead, he built a moment.
A moment that classmates say gave them time.
Time to escape.
Two points:
If you can read this without tears welling up in your eyes, you’re a far more stoic person than I.
Since Big Money has made it impossible for the United States to implement the same common-sense gun laws that exist in the rest of the planet, this story will reduplicate itself into perpetuity.
-
Greenhouse Gases7 months ago
Guest post: Why China is still building new coal – and when it might stop
-
Climate Change7 months ago
Guest post: Why China is still building new coal – and when it might stop
-
Greenhouse Gases2 years ago嘉宾来稿:满足中国增长的用电需求 光伏加储能“比新建煤电更实惠”
-
Climate Change2 years ago
Bill Discounting Climate Change in Florida’s Energy Policy Awaits DeSantis’ Approval
-
Climate Change2 years ago
Spanish-language misinformation on renewable energy spreads online, report shows
-
Climate Change2 years ago嘉宾来稿:满足中国增长的用电需求 光伏加储能“比新建煤电更实惠”
-
Climate Change Videos2 years ago
The toxic gas flares fuelling Nigeria’s climate change – BBC News
-
Carbon Footprint2 years agoUS SEC’s Climate Disclosure Rules Spur Renewed Interest in Carbon Credits
















