Hey there,
As the seasons shift, we’re keeping things moving with exciting updates for wind energy professionals and epoxy users alike. From revolutionary blade repair tech to timely winter tips, here’s what’s new at Aerontec:
Enhancing Wind Blade Repairs with Bergolin's Advanced Solutions
As the exclusive South African distributor for Bergolin GmbH, Aerontec is proud to offer a complete range of wind turbine blade repair products, carefully engineered to meet the diverse challenges of the African climate. From coastal winds to desert dust, these solutions are built for performance, protection, and practicality.
A Complete Repair System, Designed for the Field
Bergolin’s portfolio includes a versatile lineup of materials that ensure field crews can work efficiently and effectively:
- Fillers: The three-component filler system offers outstanding control. Its 8-hour pot life gives technicians plenty of time to work on-site, and when speed is required, the addition of an accelerator triggers a fast, snap cure – perfect for time-sensitive repairs.
- Topcoats: Their water-based topcoat is UV-stable, providing long-lasting durability against sun exposure and weathering.
- Leading Edge Protection (LEP): Developed for extreme operational conditions, these coatings offer superb erosion resistance – extending blade life and maintaining aerodynamic efficiency.
BergoLED Speed Repair System – UV-Curing for Rapid Results
In high-wind areas where turbine downtime costs add up quickly, Bergolin’s BergoLED Speed Repair System delivers a significant breakthrough. This UV-curing system enables repairs to be fully cured within minutes, cutting overall repair time by up to 90%. It’s fast, portable, and currently undergoing OEM certification – poised to become the new standard for efficient wind blade maintenance.
Watch Out for Amine Blush this Winter – Especially on the Coast
As cooler, wetter months roll in, so does the potential for amine blush—a surface contaminant that can interfere with epoxy bonding if not properly managed.
Amine blush presents as a waxy or greasy film on the surface of curing epoxies. It forms when the amine hardener in the resin system reacts with moisture and CO₂ from the air—a common scenario in coastal boatyards during winter. Inland builders benefit from drier climates, making this issue less frequent.
Why It Matters
While amine blush won’t affect the structural integrity of the cured laminate, it will compromise adhesion for secondary bonding, coatings, or paint.
How to Handle It
- Clean the surface with warm water and a Scotch-Brite pad—no solvents, as they may smear the blush.
- For prevention, consider applying peel ply. Once removed, it takes the blush with it, leaving a textured, clean surface ready for the next layer.
This simple habit offers low-cost insurance for ensuring bond integrity during winter builds. Not sure if you’re dealing with blush? Reach out—we’re happy to assist with troubleshooting and product support.
For questions or orders, contact us at info@aerontec.co.za or give us a call. We’re always happy to help you find the right solution.
The Aerontec Team