They need to stand up to incredibly high loads while safely and reliably producing electrical energy. Strong industry regulation means new systems are tested rigorously to verify they are up to the task. Understanding the need for our experience and expertise, Windflow Technology asked us to lead the experimental testing for the compliance process. We helped them obtain IEC 61400:13 compliance and gain the respect of Lloyds Register.

Windflow Technology Ltd chose us to lead the experimental testing for all compliance activities of their innovative two-bladed wind turbine design. We assembled our team of industry experts to investigate the acoustics, power and structural performance of the system. The crowning glory was confirming the structural capacity of their full‑scale 16 metre long blades, manufactured from timber and glass fibre composite. The blade was pushed to its limits and beyond resulting in an explosive failure when it finally broke, the first time this had ever been achieved in the Southern Hemisphere.

The project was a huge success with all testing successfully completed, meeting the very tight timeframe and exceeding the strict performance requirements. Windflow Technology were so happy with the result that they asked us to help refine the system performance.

All testing was conducted under the strict guidance of Lloyds Register (UK) and gaining acceptance under the requirements of IEC 61400:13.

Did you know?

• The turbine has two blades that are self-pitching allowing them to adjust their approach angle to the wind. This allows the Windflow system to operate to higher wind speeds than most other turbines on the market, achieving efficiency factors of 95%.

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