Henderson, Nevada -- Envertech Inc., a US developer of energy-conversion technologies, has signed a license agreement with Wind Sail Receptor Inc. (WSR) to use WSR's patented technology for polyurethane wind-turbine blades in the manufacture of low-wattage wind turbines -- up to 50 kW.
WSR's polyurethane blade technology was developed by Richard Steinke, the company ceo and a well-known figure in the PU industry. He spent many years working on the development of polyurethane tyres, most recently with Amerityre Corp.
WSR says its novel blade design (pictured) develops significantly higher torques at lower rotational speeds than conventional wind-turbine blades, giving quieter operation and improved reliability and durability. The blade design also allows it to operate over a much broader range of wind speeds, said WSR.
"Since Wind Sail Receptor is focused on developing large wind turbine systems in the megawatt range, we are pleased to have Envertech as a licensee to manufacture the smaller systems. This will allow us to bring our advanced blade technology to a broader customer base," commented Steinke, in a 15 Jan Envertech announcement.
Envertech said its systems will be able to generate more energy over any given period of time under most ambient wind conditions, resulting in lower cost per kilowatt-hour and a quicker investment payback.
"Testing of a 68-inch diameter turbine system has demonstrated the superiority of the Envertech system," the company said. When comparing the power densities (watts per square inch of swept area) at rated wind speeds of 28 to 30 mph (12.5 m/s to 13.4 m/s) the Envertech unit produced 31 percent to 91 percent more power than its competition.
"The ability of the WSR blade to generate high levels of torque at reduced rotational speeds while maintaining stability over a broad range of wind speeds is the perfect match for our new generator technology," said Dr. Gary Benninger, ceo of Envertech, in the statement. (Benninger was also previously with Amerityre). The combined system will rapidly show "lower energy costs and quicker paybacks," he added.
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