Lightweight Construction for Efficient Small Wind Turbine – Cooperation with Fraunhofer Institute IAP

How can wind energy be efficiently utilized even where the wind only blows weakly, such as in Brandenburg? Together with the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research IAP, we have developed a rotor for small wind turbines that makes exactly this possible.

The newly developed rotor blade convinces through state-of-the-art manufacturing technology, high aerodynamic efficiency, and a shell construction method made of fiber composite materials. This is a precise, resource-efficient, and simultaneously extremely stable construction with significantly reduced weight.

The forms of the rotor blades are created in large-format 3D printing, while an automated fiber placement system places the fiber layers with millimeter precision. This creates rotor blades of the highest quality, with minimal tolerances and optimal performance. Thanks to an intelligent laminate structure, they adapt elastically in strong winds and automatically protect the system from overload.

‍

The Highlights:

• Light and efficient: Hollow construction made of fiber composite materials – significantly lighter than conventional rotor blades
• Active even in weak winds: Start from 2.7 m/s (comparable systems from 4 m/s)
• Maximum power: Up to 2000 W at 10 m/s – on average 83% more efficient than comparable systems
• Robust and safe: Rotor blades deform elastically in storms and protect the system

The special advantage:

The rotor blades are specifically designed for small wind turbines that can be installed simply and flexibly without lengthy approval procedures. For example, private individuals can set up the system with a maximum height of 10 meters in their own garden, or businesses and project developers can use the small wind turbines in regional projects.

Especially in light wind regions like Brandenburg, wind power thus becomes economically usable for a larger target group. This represents an important step towards decentralized, independent, and sustainable energy supply in the region.

Are you interested in the developed product? Please feel free to contact us by email at bau@bbf-gruppe.com!

‍

You can access the press release from the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research IAP here!