Can wind turbines become even more sustainable than they already are? The answer is clearly yes. Tata Steel Netherlands is working together with several research institutes and other partners to develop a new generation of wind turbines - turbines that require less steel for the same load capacity and also have a longer service life. The ongoing research activities are intensive, with close cooperation with players from the wind turbine market. The declared goal is to realize a pilot plant by 2027.
Tata Steel contributes to the green transition in many ways every day. For example, it supplies steel that is produced with less waste and reduced CO₂ emissions, while all production processes are designed to be energy-efficient. In addition, the use of stronger steel ensures that less material is required overall - which also reduces fuel consumption. Furthermore, intelligent steels are used that cause fewer total losses and optimize occupant safety. We are also working on a safe, durable solution in the development of special steels for battery housings and battery cells. In the packaging industry, Tata Steel's high-quality tinplate steel helps to extend the shelf life of canned food, thereby reducing food waste.
Less steel, just as strong
So far, wind turbines have not been included in this list because they are traditionally made of very thick steel. In contrast, Tata Steel Nederland specializes in high-quality, thinner steel - the so-called steel on a roll, which is used in cars, washing machines and food cans. Until now, wind turbines have been manufactured from thick steel sheets (4 to 10 centimetres), which are welded into rings and stacked. This could now change, as a research team from Tata Steel Netherlands, together with TU Delft and other partners, is investigating whether it is possible to build wind turbines with the same load-bearing capacity using thinner steel and alternative steel structures - a new approach in turbine construction.
R&D Director Hans van der Weijde from Tata Steel Netherlands explains: “Think of the construction of wind turbines with (stiffened) panels or with spiral steel structures or with double-walled surfaces. Various players from the industry are involved in this research, because what is technically conceived must of course also work in practice.”
The new wind turbines are being developed as part of an industrial consortium led by Tata Steel Netherlands and TU Delft. Dr. Milan Veljkovic, Professor of Steel and Composite Construction, explains: “The double wall of the wind turbines requires a specific innovative technology in order to be able to connect the various segments. With this new building, we want to improve both the sustainability and competitiveness of the wind turbines.”
Innovation for a longer service life
In addition to reducing the proportion of steel, the research aims to extend the service life of the wind turbines. While the current turbines last around 15 to 20 years, a new generation is being researched - a goal that has been pursued for over 30 years. This new generation should be able to operate both on land and at sea. With the planned green steel investments in IJmuiden, Tata Steel also wants to make a significant contribution to the generation of green energy with wind turbines made of green steel.
