The challenge
How can the introduction of more sustainable materials and processes reduce the environmental footprint of blade manufacture?
To understand how new generation turbine blades can be produced in a more sustainable way, our team is baselining the current environmental impact of blade manufacture and analysing the environmental, economic, and social benefits of alternative materials over traditionally used materials.
Baselining the current environmental impact
We will work with our members to compile a library of materials and processes used in blade manufacture and their overall contribution to the blade footprint. Alongside exploring the materials, we will also look at the implications at end of life, product waste generated, and any sustainability knowledge gaps.
Informing decisions on the use of alternative materials
Our approach to alternative materials falls into two streams, we will first look at the benefits and drawbacks of those already in use and then examine new and promising options. We will analyse each material to understand whether performance and cost requirements could be met whilst reducing the environmental footprint.
For new materials, our team will challenge their maturity and identify the steps required to develop the materials.
The crucial output from this phase will be a tool that will harness knowledge around what the potential reduction in environmental impact could be.
Actionable methods to eliminate waste from blade manufacture
With all the relevant knowledge obtained, we will produce guidance on clear, actionable methods to eliminate waste from blade manufacture.
