Skip to content

R&D Project

Wind test and demonstration

Wind energy

Wind research and development

+1

Expanded testing facilities for ever-expanding turbine blades

3 April 2025

Solution provider

Technical University of Denmark (DTU)

For almost two centuries DTU, Technical University of Denmark, has been dedicated to fulfilling the vision of H.C. Ørsted—the father of electromagnetism—who founded the university in 1829 to develop and create value using the natural sciences and the technical sciences to benefit society.

More from Technical University of Denmark (DTU)

Want to see this solution first hand?

Add the case to your visit request and let us know that you are interested in visiting Denmark

Blaest

Challenge

As the size and complexity of wind turbines continue to increase, there is a growing need for testing facilities capable of certifying the performance and structural integrity of very large turbine blades. These larger blades present unique challenges in terms of testing requirements, and ensuring their reliability is critical for the future of wind energy. Access to facilities with the capacity to test such large-scale components is essential for manufacturers aiming to meet the evolving demands of the industry.

Solution

The Danish Blade Test Centre (Blaest), a collaboration between DNV, FORCE Technology, and DTU, has emerged as a leading facility for wind turbine blade testing. Drawing on decades of expertise, Blaest provides all the necessary structural tests for the type certification of turbine blades. In addition to standard testing services, Blaest offers special services such as non-destructive testing (NDT) inspections and blade repair, in partnership with local collaborators.

In 2020, Blaest expanded its capabilities with the opening of a new 5,000 m² test hall, equipped with three test rigs. This expansion enables the facility to test turbine blades up to 110 metres in length, a critical feature as the industry moves towards larger and more powerful wind turbines.

Result

With the addition of the new test hall and expanded testing capacity, Blaest now has the ability to support the certification of the next generation of large-scale wind turbine blades. The centre’s advanced facilities enable the testing of blades that meet the growing demands of the industry, ensuring their performance and durability in a range of operating conditions. Blaest continues to play a central role in advancing wind turbine technology, contributing to the development of more efficient and reliable turbines for the global market.

Front page of 'Wind energy - powering the future'

Publication: Wind Energy - Powering the future

Discover our white paper on wind energy, and learn about how wind is pushing the ambitions for a renewable energy transition.

Explore the white paper