Greentech company takes next step towards commercialisation
Greentech innovator Katrick Technologies is poised to achieve yet another milestone in the development of its revolutionary Wind Panel technology. Following the successful validation of Technology Readiness Level 5 (TRL 5) by the University of Strathclyde and testing at the Silverstone Sports Engineering Hub, the company is now conducting a second round of rigorous testing at the University’s state-of-the-art wind tunnel.
The Wind Panel, a modular and flexible system, has attracted significant attention in the renewable energy sector due to its unique design and ability to capture low-level and ground effect winds. Unlike conventional wind turbines that rely on rotary parts, the panels employ patented aerofoil technology and oscillations to harness wind energy. This makes them suitable for a wider range of environments, including urban areas.
Wind panel prototype in wind tunnel
The University of Strathclyde’s recent TRL 5 validation confirms that a rigorous engineering development program is in place, reducing technical and commercial risk in the Wind Panel’s journey to market. The next testing phase at the University’s wind tunnel is a critical step toward achieving TRL 6, as defined by NASA as “technology demonstrated in relevant environments.” During the next round of testing, the team at Katrick Technologies will focus on an in-depth analysis of the aerodynamic performance of a single duct from the panel. It will allow the team to further explore the interplay between the front and back aerofoils and the lift of each foil. This will determine optimal power generation across various wind conditions.
The company has also previously tested a prototype in the wind tunnel at the Silverstone Sports Engineering Hub, where it gathered initial data on the panel’s performance under a range of wind conditions.
“During our work at Silverstone, we put our prototype to the test under operational wind conditions and we proved that the system works effectively,” explained Vijay Madlani, CEO of Katrick Technologies. “Testing it further will allow us to validate these results and to prove that our Wind Panels have the potential to revolutionise wind power. The University of Strathclyde have been instrumental in our journey so far and working with them on this next stage of validation will bring us closer to getting the product to market.”
A key element of the panel’s design is the ducting effect, seen in Ducted Wind Turbines (DWTs). This concept uses a duct to focus more wind onto the rotor and increase its speed for increased power generation. The initial results from the Wind Panel test showed that this ducting effect resulted in a 1.5 times acceleration of wind, even at lower speeds.
Katrick Technologies is dedicated to reshaping the renewable energy landscape with its innovative solutions. With the Wind Panel’s potential already proven in previous tests, this next stage of validation will reinforce its promise for the renewable energy market.
To learn more about Katrick Technologies and its cutting-edge green technologies, visit the website here.
