INNOVATION & NEW TECHNOLOGY FEATURE 3M’S
The approach to innovation at 3M comes in a number of approaches and formats.
The latest Wind Blade Protection Coating is one of many technologies leveraged from the company’s core competencies in the fields of films, adhesives and coatings and the inventive power of its 40 plus technology platforms.
WIND BLADE PROTECTION COATING Building on these key technologies platforms enables 3M to make innovative advances with new solutions for wind turbines, specifically for the blade surface and the blade structure. Adds Steven Powell, Business Manager for 3M Renewable Energy Division in the UK, “This has enabled 3M to develop new solutions such as the new Wind Blade Protection Coating to improve resistance to erosion, a key industry need as blades are getting longer, with higher tip speeds and increasingly deployed in more challenging environments”.
INNOVATIVE APPROACH
The development of this new Blade Protection Coating started with the objective of having a liquid erosion protection solution with superior product performance compared to existing coating solutions, combined with ease of application.
WIND BLADE PROTECTION TAPES Another path to innovation for 3M is to tune in to industry needs and challenges and adapt already existing products from other markets it serves. An example of this was the Wind Blade Protection Tapes adapted from over 40 years of experience in the aerospace market, protecting aircrafts and helicopter rotor blades. “Even moderate erosion and pitting can lead to increased drag, decreased lift and a reduction in Annual Energy Produced (AEP) of around 4% to 10% and up to 20% when delamination occurs. This means lower output and returns for the asset owner unless preventative maintenance steps are taken”, adds Powell.
WIND BLADE BONDING ADHESIVE Another driver of innovation can be responding to industry needs such as the need for more reliable and cost effective solutions, helping Wind to compete more effectively with other established energy sources. The development of the Wind Blade Bonding Adhesive is an example of this and can help improve crack resistance and can save up to six hours cure time in the mould for blade manufacturers, helping to improve efficiency in the manufacturing process.
3M
www.3m.com
48
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk
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