3M Applies Aerospace Technology To Lengthen Wind Turbine Life

St. Paul, MN - 3M announces the availability of their new Wind Tapes 8608 and 8609 for the wind energy market. Wind Tapes 8608 and 8609 from 3M provide long-lasting protection from damage caused by sand, rain, moisture ingression, insects, and airborne particles. The new tapes are also formulated to resist the damage and weakening effects of ultraviolet rays. Used to help protect wind turbine blades, the tapes can help reduce maintenance and replacement costs and extend the service life of the blade.

"Greater longevity of the blade translates into money and time saved in maintenance. Our Wind Tapes can also help improve efficiency by ensuring the airflow over the blade is smooth," said Gene Bergh, senior technical service specialist for 3M.

3M's Wind Tapes draw upon the company's expertise in polyurethane protective tapes for helicopter blades, which can reach speeds of more than 500 miles per hour. "We've seen over the last 40 years of use that helicopter blades can last up to ten times longer with the use of our leading edge protective tape," said Bergh. "It made sense to apply the same theory and technology to protect turbine blades that move at slower speeds, but encounter some of the same damaging effects."

The 3M tape is typically applied to the outer two-thirds of the blade where the speed is the fastest and protection most critical. Providing energy absorption, Wind Tapes from 3M spread the impact force of particles over a wider area of the blade, protecting its structural and aesthetic integrity.

When properly applied on a smooth, clean surface, Wind Tape from 3M stays in place until you want to remove it. Wind Tapes 8608 and 8609 come in roll form with removable liners and pressure sensitive, stable acrylic adhesives.

For more information regarding products and services offered by 3M visit www.3M.com.

SOURCE: Wind Tapes from 3M