4C is now TGS

We are excited to announce a significant milestone in 4C Offshore's journey. Our integration into the TGS family marks the beginning of a new era in offshore wind market intelligence.

Learn what this means for you!

AkzoNobel unveils 'world-first' wind turbine blade testing facility

By: Chloe Emanuel 25/06/2024 Akzonobel

General Turbines

AkzoNobel has launched the world’s first purpose-built wind turbine blade testing facility at its Felling plant in the UK. This groundbreaking facility, which represents a multi-million euro investment, is capable of running simulations at half the speed of sound to advance the development of the company’s International® protective coatings brand used by wind farms globally.

The new facility allows researchers to triple the number of rain erosion tests conducted weekly, with the "helicopter" test running at speeds of 176 metres per second. This in-house testing capability will enable AkzoNobel to generate data, analyse results, and prolong testing periods more efficiently, enhancing their contributions to innovation in the wind energy sector.

“Today [earlier this June] marks an exciting new chapter in our long history of supporting sustainable innovation and product development,” said Ralph Slikkerveer, R&D Director of AkzoNobel’s Marine and Protective Coatings business.

To support these high-speed tests, the facility includes a 1,000-litre water recycling tank, with adjustable water flow rates and temperature controls. This will help future-proof customers' blades to withstand extreme weather conditions, offering more cost-effective and accelerated testing on new products.

AkzoNobel is the only global paints and coatings company providing complete solutions for wind turbines, with over 80,000 wind energy installations coated worldwide. The Felling site, operational since 1904, remains a global hub for research and development of International products.

For more information curated from over 275 offshore wind turbine models, including dimensions and wind speeds, click here.

Premium

4C Offshore Premium, our most popular subscription, gives you full access to use the 4C Offshore WebApp which includes exclusive offshore wind, transmission and vessel reports, news and downloads.

Request a 30 minute Demo

AkzoNobel unveils 'world-first' wind turbine blade testing facility

Back to News

Trending News!