COVER STORY
Eco-Friendly Solutions in Wind Blade Manufacturing
In this insightful Q & A , we delve into Granudan ’ s role in transforming the renewables sector , specifically the wind blade industry , with eco-friendly solutions . With over two decades of experience , Granudan has pioneered non-toxic , water-based release systems , designed to meet the industry ’ s sustainability goals . From technical expertise to global reach , this conversation explores the innovative services , products , and case studies that demonstrate Granudan ’ s commitment to enhancing productivity , safety , and environmental responsibility within this vital sector .
Morten Skaaning Granudan
NEI : Could you start by explaining Granudan credentials and experience in terms of your products and services for the renewables sector ? Could you tell our readers the breadth of your experience , how long the company has been active , and its reach ?
Granudan : Since 2001 , Granudan ’ s highperformance release program has been a breakthrough in green chemistry , utilizing a non-polluting , odor-free polymer-based technology for global wind turbine blade manufacturing . Our products are hazard-free and user-safe , leaving no toxic footprint .
In close collaboration with leading laboratories , Granudan was one of the pioneers in the introduction of an entirely water-based release system for wind blade manufacturers . Today , most release agent brands offer a wide range of water-based semi-permanent release agents with varying degrees of success .
With over 90 % water content in some products , these unique chemicals are more sensitive to external conditions such as temperature , humidity , and processing methods . At this point , our extensive training program comes into play , offering significant advantages for a safe start .
Today , we offer a much more extensive selection of water-based release agents suitable for most blade manufacturers .
NEI : What are some of the services that you provide the wind blade industry ?
Granudan : We assist wind blade manufacturers in transitioning from toxic , solvent-based release systems to entirely eco-friendly waterbased solutions .
With over 20 years of experience , Granudan has refined application techniques to achieve the right balance between increased output ,
6 control , and sustainability .
At Granudan , we don ’ t just deliver a release product ; we provide a comprehensive solution . We understand the do ’ s and don ’ ts of the process . Along with our innovative application tools and equipment , training , and local adjustments , our water-based release coatings often outperform conventional solvent-based products , delivering enhanced release efficiency across a wide range of molding processes .
Today , we distribute our release concept globally to the Wind Industry .
We frequently encounter concerns about the lack of time or critical resources during such transitions . To address this , we offer a unique service to the wind industry : a completely external team of specialized mold maintenance technicians through our independent service company , MouldProtec . Within just a few days , this team can perform abrasive sanding of the whole shell surface , conduct necessary repairs , clean , and apply the agreed-upon water-based release concept . This process can also be carried out alongside existing maintenance crews or process operators for training purposes .
NEI : At what part of the lifecycle does your solutions come into play for the wind blade industry ?
Granudan : Transitioning to more ecofriendly chemicals has become increasingly important in recent years , especially in response to the latest EU regulations and the growing focus on sustainability and carbon footprint reduction .
Next to this , new ISO requirements for management now necessitate integrating climate change and sustainability into organizational practices . This shift presents an opportunity for differentiation beyond just price . Our water-based release program offers blade manufacturers an additional avenue to achieve this .
Overall , sustainability is becoming a central component of any management system . Integrating climate considerations and sustainability into these systems will facilitate the upcoming demands of sustainability reporting .
Therefore , sustainability remains a crossorganizational responsibility . At Granudan , we often engage multiple departments , including HSE , production , and finishing , to align and achieve common goals during this transition .
Given these considerations , continuing to use toxic , solvent-based release systems are no longer a viable path for manufacturers that prioritize worker safety , sustainability , and climate change as critical factors for future success .
NEI : What other industries do you provide your solutions ?
Granudan : In addition to providing release solutions to the highly advanced composite sector within the wind industry ( blades , nacelles , root joints , webs , etc .) — our products are utilized across a diverse range of sectors such as automotive , marine , aerospace , sports equipment , military , artificial marble , polymer concrete , as well as PU and rubber parts and standard fiberglass ( FRP ) moldings .
We still offer both semi-permanent waterbased and solvent-based release systems , which include cleaners , primers , sealers , and release agents . Furthermore , we provide a variety of paste waxes , liquid waxes , internal releases , and sacrificial release coats from a carefully curated selection of products sourced from leading brands and laboratories .
NEI : How destructive can Mold be to wind blades and what are the consequences if not dealt with properly ?
Granudan : Honestly , it is our impression that not all manufacturers give sufficient attention to the critical impact that a niche product like release agents can have on the entire production process and output . Many manufacturers categorize release agents as “ consumables ” or “ commodities ”, failing to