Independent Technical Advisory in Wind Turbine Mechanical Systems

For more than 25 years, I have supported leading companies in the wind industry with complex mechanical challenges, technical due diligence, certification processes, and product improvements.

My core expertise lies in wind turbine mechanical systems, particularly bearings, drivetrain behaviour, and advanced root cause analysis. I combine deep technical understanding with commercial insight and project leadership experience.

I work independently, but when required I assemble highly specialized teams from a trusted international network to deliver focused and efficient solutions.

Experience from Industry and Research

My background includes early R&D work at what was then the world's largest wind turbine manufacturer, leadership roles as technical line manager and platform manager, and international project management assignments.

I hold an M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering, an MBA, and Design for Six Sigma Black Belt certification.

For several years, I have advised Fraunhofer IWES and currently serve on its Board of Advisors.

Professional Profile

Competencies & Focus Areas

Wind Turbine Mechanical Systems

Wind Turbine Mechanical Systems

Deep expertise in:

  • Bearings and drivetrain systems
  • Structural interfaces and load paths
  • Platform-level mechanical and electrical interactions
  • Failure modes and durability challenges

Experience spans concept development, validation, field performance, and redesign.

Root Cause Analysis

Advanced Root Cause Analysis

Approximately half of my assignments focus on product improvement driven by failure investigations.

Capabilities include:

  • Multi-causal failure analysis
  • Structured causal mapping
  • Hypothesis-driven testing strategies
  • Design of experiments and validation plans
  • Hands-on support during investigations
  • Training and facilitation of internal RCA processes

I can operate as lead investigator, external quality assurer of internal investigations, or sparring partner for technical and project leadership.

Technical Due Diligence

Technical Due Diligence & M&A Support

Combining technical depth with commercial understanding, I support:

  • Early-stage technical screening
  • In-depth technical due diligence
  • Risk identification and valuation impact assessments
  • Independent expert evaluations

Through a strong professional network, I assemble focused specialist teams when required.

Certification

Certification & Independent Technical Advisory

  • Advisory related to wind turbine certification processes
  • Independent technical assessments
  • Expert reviews for investors, boards, and management

My independence allows for clear, unbiased conclusions.

How I Work

Independent Expertise — Integrated Collaboration

I operate as an independent advisor, typically engaged for clearly defined and time-limited technical analysis assignments. These engagements often involve complex root cause investigations, technical assessments, or due diligence processes where clarity, speed, and scientific rigor are essential.

In parallel, a significant part of my work takes place inside larger organizations and cross-functional teams. In these roles, I work hands-on with engineers and specialists, contributing directly to investigations, test programs, design improvements, and validation work.

This flexibility allows clients to engage me either as a focused external expert or as a stable long-term contributor in larger technical programs.

Approach

Complex technical failures are rarely caused by a single factor. My methodology goes beyond simplified "5-Why" exercises and standard Ishikawa diagrams.

I apply structured causal mapping, hypothesis-driven investigation, iterative refinement of problem statements, and scientifically rigorous validation methods. The goal is clarity, not assumptions, and solutions that are technically robust and commercially sound.

Confidentiality

All assignments are handled with strict professional confidentiality. I am accustomed to working with sensitive technical, commercial, and strategic information, and discretion is a fundamental part of my work.

References available upon request

Contact

For inquiries regarding technical advisory, root cause investigations, certification support, or technical due diligence, please feel free to get in touch.

Steffen Haslev Sørensen

Mobile: +45 22 23 50 48

Email: shs@rca-eng.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rcaengineering

Address

RCA Engineering
Ravskærvej 37
8382 Hinnerup, Denmark