DNV is introducing a new ‘Special Level’ Type Certificate for wind turbines. It differs with respect to the Type Certificate according to IEC 61400-22 in that blade fatigue testing will not be required.
The Special Level Type Certification will provide DNV’s clients with an additional approach to help increase competitiveness in the rapidly-developing wind energy market. DNV still strongly recommends the entire IEC 61400-22 Type Certification system is completed as part of a blade development process, as fatigue testing of blades reduces the wind turbine’s technical and commercial risks. However, the Special Level Type Certificate can provide a fast and flexible path to the market, with reduced time and expense, with the option to transition to a full IEC Type Certificate at a later time. Introducing more flexibility in the scope of certificates allows for verification levels consistent with the demands of different market, financial, and regulatory requirements. Blade fatigue testing, which is part of IEC 61400-22 will still be required for DNV’s other type certification products.
The Special Level Type Certification will provide DNV’s clients with an additional approach to help increase competitiveness in the rapidly-developing wind energy market. DNV still strongly recommends the entire IEC 61400-22 Type Certification system is completed as part of a blade development process, as fatigue testing of blades reduces the wind turbine’s technical and commercial risks. However, the Special Level Type Certificate can provide a fast and flexible path to the market, with reduced time and expense, with the option to transition to a full IEC Type Certificate at a later time. Introducing more flexibility in the scope of certificates allows for verification levels consistent with the demands of different market, financial, and regulatory requirements. Blade fatigue testing, which is part of IEC 61400-22 will still be required for DNV’s other type certification products.
