One year after Renewable Energy Composite Solutions (RECS), a sister company of Christensen Shipyards, received a $1-million federal stimulus grant, production has begun on wind turbine blades.
RECS was created in 2009 to diversify Christensen’s business in light of the global economic crisis. The yard’s management team believed that its 20-plus years of experience with composite construction complemented the needs of the renewable-energy industry. In fact, the team particularly felt its vacuum-infusion process was a good fit. Since wind turbines, tidal turbines, and buoys have continuous exposure to environmental fluctuations, they require strength and corrosion resistance. RECS therefore could manufacture composite units with Kevlar or carbon fiber.
The cylindrical structure seen at left, inside the manufacturing facility, is an example of the RECS wind turbine blades. The shape of the blade and the cylindrical structure housing it are unusual, especially compared to the prevalent propeller-like blades atop tall towers. While the latter is indeed a wind turbine, it is just one type. The curving nature of the RECS blades reportedly have certain advantages, with one being less vibration. The overall shape also reportedly results in fewer bird strikes. This is a contentious issue in some communities where negotiations for wind turbine installations are ongoing. Yet another benefit: the ability to mount on bridges or buildings, making it more suitable for urban areas. There is no need for a tower; the structure mounts just as seen in the photo.
RECS currently has two contracts. One is with Oregon-based Skyron Systems, a wind-energy company, to create small wind turbine blades. The other contract is with SAIC, a Fortune 500 firm focused on scientific, engineering, and technology solutions for a variety of issues, including energy and the environment. RECS is making a wave energy test buoy for SAIC.
In an interview with The Columbian, a Washington State newspaper, Brad Given, director of operations for RECS, says the company faces the challenge of “legitimacy and pedigree,” in comparison to longer-standing firms. He adds that making more contacts within the renewable-energy industry should help RECS expand its business.
In related news, RECS received the 2010 Manufacturing Innovation of the Year Award for Midsize Companies. Seattle Business magazine and Impact Washington, a non-profit organization focused on making Washington manufacturers more competitive globally, sponsored the award. RECS received recognition for introducing 5S and Lean manufacturing techniques, both focused on more efficient production.
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