Moulds

Large moulds are used to manufacture offshore wind turbine blades. They provide the precise shape required to ensure the blades' aerodynamic performance and structural integrity.

Description of Manufacturing Process
Large billets of aluminium are prepared and shaped using large gantry CNC machines to remove excess material and form the general outline. Precision 5-axis CNC machining is then used for fine detailing. Coatings such as gel coats are then applied to improve durability and facilitate the extraction of the blades.

Description of Supply Chain
Raw material suppliers provide aluminium sections. CNC manufacturers machine the billet into the required shape. Blade manufacturers then use the moulds to manufacture the carbon fibre or fibreglass blades.

Scottish Opportunity
Relevance to Scottish Supply Chain: Low

Blades manufacturers have existing suppliers which are unlikely to be displaced due to the size of the moulds and the associated transport costs. Local demand is likely to emerge if blade factories open in Scotland.