DNV has just issued verification for Polytech’s leading edge protection, dubbed Elle.

The edge protection, which protects rotor blades on wind turbines against erosion, has received certification DNV-RP-0573. It is the only edge protection service in the industry to be allotted such a certification so far.

Polytech writes in a press release that it is proud of the development process of Elle.

“We are proud of this recognition by DNV, verifying the erosion resistance and durability of our Elle leading edge protection softshell. We introduced Elle to the market in 2016, and since then, we have further developed and improved it - not only to ensure durability of the product itself, but also to assure our customers that leading edge erosion can in fact be avoided, ” Chief Executive Officer Mads Kirkeby writes in the statement.

Polytech has used the DNV-verified test results to calculate the longevity of Elle. The company estimates a lifespan of 25 years. DNV tested this estimate and deemed it conservative.

“Leading edge erosion of wind turbines blades is a widespread and major problem in wind industry that leads to high and unexpected repair costs. That is why DNV’s priority has been to bring confidence to the wind industry by supporting the development of LEP materials and solutions,” says Christopher Harrison, principal engineer of rotor blades at DNV, adding: 

”We are happy to see that suppliers like Polytech use these recommended practices as a foundation when developing their LEP solutions to ensure a durable product that can tackle leading edge erosion.”