A Major Leap in Tidal Energy Manufacturing
Thermwood's LSAM Technology Prints a 2-Meter Tidal Blade Mold in Days, Not Months.
Thermwood Corporation, Purdue University, the University of Sheffield, the University of Oxford, and the University of Edinburgh are collaborating on an advanced double-sided Large-Scale Additive Manufacturing (LSAM) tool to fabricate a 2-meter tidal turbine blade.
The project began at the 2025 JEC Composites Show in Paris and is ongoing, showing how additive manufacturing is transforming renewable energy production.
At JEC 2025, Thermwood’s LSAM 510 printed both sides of this innovative tool live on-site using carbon fiber reinforced polycarbonate (PC), reducing tooling fabrication time from months to weeks. This marks a true leap in efficiency and performance.
Printed Live at JEC 2025!
Advanced Simulation and Precision Machining
Purdue University’s ADDITIVE3D technology simulated and optimized the printing process, modeling temperature evolution and post-processing effects. This predictive tool ensures confidence and precision in large-scale additive manufacturing.
Following printing, the University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre performed precision machining to integrate sensor placements, blade root locator mounts, and resin inlet/outlet features.
Innovative Blade Design and Real-Time Monitoring
The blade will undergo fatigue testing at the University of Edinburgh’s FastBlade facility and extended sea trials with a scaled turbine system. These trials will deliver valuable insights for the next generation of high-efficiency tidal turbine blades.
Next Steps: Testing and Impact
The Story Isn't Over
Fatigue testing and sea trials are underway. The results will shape the next generation of tidal energy.
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