Christchurch-based manufacturer Windflow Technology has finally received a top-level rubber stamp for its Windflow 500 turbine.UK-based certification body Lloyd's Register has confirmed that the medium-sized turbine meets Class 1A of the latest relevant I
Christchurch-based manufacturer Windflow Technology has finally received a top-level rubber stamp for its Windflow 500 turbine.
UK-based certification body Lloyd’s Register has confirmed that the medium-sized turbine meets Class 1A of the latest relevant International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard.
The confirmation follows on from a major milestone towards certification in May.
The Class 1A standard is designed to reassure purchasers that the turbine will withstand the standard’s strongest, most turbulent category of wind for at least 20 years.
Windflow chief executive Geoff Henderson described the IEC certification as the “end of an engineering marathon” and a “strong kick-start” to the company’s international marketing drive.
The unique two-blade turbine, designed for New Zealand’s highly turbulent wind sites, uses about 50% less construction material compared to competing three-blade turbines, Mr Henderson said.
“The class 1A IEC Type Approval validates this lighter, smarter approach.”
At present, there are Windflow 500 turbines in operation at the Te Rere Hau wind farm near Palmerston North, with another 32 planned at the site by mid-2011.
Today’s announcement follows last week’s revised loss estimate from between $5m to $6m to $7.95m for the year to 30 June 2010, due to increased costs for remedial work as a result of a dispute settlement with customer NZ Windfarms.
Windflow shares (NZAX:WTL) last traded unchanged at $1.
