Remote locations and the sheer number of wind turbines will present maintenance problems. DuPont™ Voltatex® resin extends life of heat-sensitive generator components. (Photo courtesy of U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory.)

DuPont is providing key solutions to the wind industry.  DuPont™ Voltatex® resin, a coating originally developed nearly 60 years ago to protect electrical systems in armored military vehicles, insulates key components of wind generators from damaging heat, thus extending their life.  In certain high-heat situations, Voltatex® is used in combination with DuPont™ Nomex® paper and pressboard for additional thermal protection.

As vast arrays of wind turbines, popularly known as "windmills," appear around the world, keeping them running reliably for years -- and even decades -- is expected to become a huge issue.  With some turbines perched atop 400-foot towers, many in remote terrain or far at sea, durability and reliability of the units will be paramount concerns.  Future wind power installations, or "wind farms," could contain hundreds of power generating towers.

"One of the best ways to protect these turbines and minimize maintenance is to encapsulate the key components of the generator that protect them from the extreme heat inherent in the generation of electricity," said Arthur Boxman, global business manager for DuPont electrical insulation systems.  "Our products were designed specifically to contribute to the sustainability of the wind industry.  It is worth noting that up to 25 percent of their content consists of renewable materials."