TAGS: Sustainability / Natural Coatings Polyurethane Coatings
Arctura announces that it has signed a technology license agreement with Mankiewicz. Mankiewicz is a high-quality coating solutions provider. This collaboration marks the introduction of the ArcGuide® coating.
ArcGuide® coating is a novel lightning protection coating. It is designed to significantly reduce the prevalence of lightning damage to wind turbines. The lightning damage costs the wind energy industry well over $100 million annually.
Polyurethane-based Topcoat
Lightning damage to wind turbines is one of the largest expenses for wind farm operators. And the problem is expected to worsen in the coming years. This is because manufacturers continue to build taller wind turbines. This leads to increase in lightning activity due to climate change.
The ArcGuide® coating addresses the issue by enhancing the performance of the installed lighting protection system. It is a polyurethane-based topcoat. It incorporates a proprietary mixture of discrete elements.
When applied to the surface of the wind turbine blade in the vicinity of the lightning receptors, the ArcGuide® coating facilitates the formation of ionized channels. The channels are formed over the surface of the blades during the build-up of a lightning strike. This provides a safe external path for lightning to reach the ground receptor. It also prevents damaging blade punctures.
The ArcGuide® coating is being offered as part of the Mankiewicz BladeRep portfolio of high-performance coatings.
Revolutionary Product for Wind Energy Industry
ArcGuide® coating is a revolutionary product for the wind energy industry. Features of ArcGuide® coating:
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Can be easily applied
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Superior durability
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Protects blade from even the harshest of elements
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Remains effective strike after strike
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This blade coating addresses one of the most important pain points felt by wind farm operators,” said Neal Fine. He is the chief executive officer of Arctura.
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We are very pleased to be working alongside Mankiewicz. They are the top coatings manufacturer in the industry. Wind farm operators are more than ready for this product to be on the market. They will be pleased to know that it is being offered by a trusted manufacturer. Mankiewicz is known for its durable and effective coatings,” added Fine.
Consistent Results
Mankiewicz brings to this partnership a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to innovation. The ArcGuide® coating product has been subjected to the rigorous development and testing process. This consistently yields superior results for their customers. The ArcGuide® coating is available for both new and existing turbine models.
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Mankiewicz is proud to partner with Arctura in developing and launching ArcGuide® coating,” said Fabian Grimm. He is the managing director of Mankiewicz’ US operations in Charleston, South Carolina.
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Our commitment to innovation and delivering high-quality coating solutions aligns perfectly with Arctura's vision. Together, we are addressing a critical challenge faced by wind farm operators. We are offering this new valuable functionality as part of our BladeRep product portfolio. We look forward to making a lasting impact in the renewable energy sector,” added Grimm.
Source: Arctura