Overview
ISO/TS 19392-6:2026 is a technical specification developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that defines a standardized method for evaluating the ice adhesion of coating systems on wind-turbine rotor blades using a centrifuge. Effective icephobic coatings are essential for wind turbines operating in cold and humid environments, where ice formation can drastically reduce efficiency and present operational hazards. This document sets out procedures to measure the strength with which artificial ice adheres to coated test substrates, supporting comparative evaluation and reproducibility in testing rotor blade coatings.
By focusing on the centrifuge test method, ISO/TS 19392-6:2026 provides a consistent approach to assessing dynamic ice adhesion under controlled laboratory conditions, aiding in the development of high-performance anti-icing and de-icing solutions for wind energy applications.
Key Topics
- Artificial Ice Formation: The standard covers both “static ice” (ice formed in-place from liquid water) and “impact ice” (ice formed by supercooled droplets at high velocity), reflecting real-world icing scenarios.
- Centrifuge Testing Procedure: Describes how to prepare coated test panels, form artificial ice under controlled conditions, and use a centrifuge to measure the force required to remove ice.
- Sample Preparation & Conditioning: Outlines crucial steps for preparing and conditioning substrates, ensuring test consistency, and noting relevant details such as substrate material, coating thickness, and surface roughness.
- Test and Evaluation Parameters: Defines parameters for centrifuge speed, ice formation area, test temperature, and cycle repetitions to enhance reproducibility.
- Data Reporting: Establishes requirements for test reporting, including documenting test conditions, equipment used, and results for full traceability.
Applications
ISO/TS 19392-6:2026 serves a variety of stakeholders in the wind energy sector and coatings industry:
- Wind Turbine Manufacturers: Allows for standardized performance verification and quality assurance of rotor blade coatings designed to minimize ice adhesion.
- Coating Developers and Suppliers: Supports the R&D of advanced icephobic and anti-icing coatings, providing a consistent methodology for benchmarking and certification.
- Testing Laboratories: Offers a reproducible and recognized test protocol for assessing the performance of new or existing coatings under laboratory conditions simulating operational environments.
- Asset Operators and Maintenance Organizations: Facilitates the selection and application of optimal coating systems, improving turbine reliability and operational safety in cold climates.
- Regulatory and Certification Bodies: Ensures compliance with international practices and supports product approval processes in the renewable energy sector.
Related Standards
Adopting or referencing ISO/TS 19392-6:2026 may require consideration of several related standards, including:
- ISO 1513: Paints and varnishes - Examination and preparation of test samples
- ISO 2808: Paints and varnishes - Determination of film thickness
- ISO 4618: Paints and varnishes - Vocabulary
- ISO 15528: Paints, varnishes and raw materials for paints and varnishes - Sampling
- ISO 21920-2: Geometrical product specifications (GPS) - Surface texture: Profile - Part 2: Terms, definitions and surface texture parameters
- SAE ARP 5905A: Calibration and Acceptance of Icing Wind Tunnels
Practical Value
Implementing the methods outlined in ISO/TS 19392-6:2026 supports the development of durable and effective wind turbine coatings, enhances operational reliability in harsh environments, and standardizes the evaluation of icephobic properties globally. Utilizing centrifuge-based ice adhesion testing, as opposed to alternative methods like the shear test, enables the simulation of dynamic operating conditions on rotor blades. This ensures that coating systems meet performance expectations, contributing to energy yield optimization and reducing risks associated with ice accumulation.
Open preview (PDF)Paints and varnishes — Coating systems for wind-turbine rotor blades — Part 6: Determination and evaluation of ice adhesion using centrifuge