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Wind turbine mystery: UFOs ruled out
UFOs have been ruled out in the hunt for what caused the mysterious severance of a huge wind turbine blade in Lincolnshire, experts have said.
The wind farm at Conisholme became world famous last month after it was claimed the loss of one 72ft blade and serious damage to another was caused by an unidentified flying object.
The 213ft turbine was wrecked in the incident and the severed blade left lying on the ground below.
Local residents reported seeing a bright light on the morning it happened, prompting speculation that a UFO caused the damage.
But investigators said they had ruled out any aircraft - including a UFO - as a cause of the damage.
Wind farm operator Ecotricity said it could have been caused by "material fatigue".
A statement from the company said: "Following several weeks of forensic examination of the turbine's components the manufacturer, Enercon, has today ruled out 'collision' as a possible cause.
"An interim report has concluded that bolts securing the blade to the hub of the turbine failed due to 'material fatigue'."
The statement said bolts that attached the blade to the turbine hub showed "classic signs" of fatigue.
It said Enercon had ruled out bolt defect and the investigation was now looking into "supporting components". Further tests are now being carried out.
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Weather for Leeds
Sunday 12 February 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 0 C to 5 C
Wind Speed: 7 mph
Wind direction: North west
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Sunny spells
Temperature: 4 C to 8 C
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