Media Release: FMR Ltd
16 December 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Custom designed blade revolutionises frost-fighting wind machines
The new Defender wind machine featuring a revolutionary custom designed blade is set to halve the noise from wind
machines used to protect vineyards and orchards from frosts.
Concerns about noise pollution have been raised throughout the country as wind machines become a popular and effective
means of frost protection. The machines drive the warm air that rises from the ground keeping it at ground level to
minimise, or prevent, the formation of frost.
Marlborough company FMR Group has been working with the University of Canterbury for the last 18 months to reduce the
noise level of the wind machines and have achieved a more than 10 decibel reduction.
The result is the Defender wind machine which will be in production from February 2009.
Developed from the FMR’s tried and tested Amarillo machine, the Defender will be available for installation for the 2009
spring frost season. And like the Amarillo, the Defender will have the benefit of the company’s 24 hour back up service.
FMR Group Ltd managing director Chris Clifford said they recognised the noise coming from wind machines was becoming a
real issue and were keen to find a solution.
“We turned to the University of Canterbury’s Department of Mechanical Engineering because it’s one of the few places in
the world capable of developing the type of technology we needed for this project,” said Chris.
The Department’s Acoustics Research Group measured and analysed the noise levels from the FMR Group Ltd’s existing
Amarillo wind machines.
This information was used to develop a method of predicting the noise levels and associated air moving performance of
the existing wind machines based on the blade geometry and operating characteristics of the machines.
Dr John Pearse who led the Acoustics Research Group said using this prediction method they designed, manufactured and
then tested a new blade which provided a substantial increase in air moving performance along with much lower noise
levels.
He said Defender’s new blades are the same length, but have a different shape and rotate slower.
“The blades are constructed from a carbon fibre composite which provides the required strength while enabling the
required blade shape to be obtained.”
Dr Pearse said they were able to use the FMR Group Ltd’s experience and expertise in wind generated noise, noise
measurement and prediction techniques as well as their acoustic facilities to develop the quieter Defender wind machine.
“The blade we have developed not only results in the wind machine being about half as loud but the noise has a more
pleasant character and is consequently less intrusive.”
Dr Pearse was impressed with the FMR Group’s commitment in addressing something that has been a real issue for vineyards
and orchards.
“Not every business is willing to take this type of technical risk but it has really paid off and I am very excited with
what we have been able to come up with for Chris and his team.”
Field testing of the prototype blade has been underway for the last year with final noise and performance testing
expected to be completed and fully documented this month but already Chris Clifford said he’s delighted with the
outcome.
“The new blades not only offer a huge reduction in noise but also increase the performance of the wind machines.”
FMR Group has worked to develop a wind machine which is specifically suited to the requirements of the pacific region,
with the latest model offering a composite engine enclosure, a new computer management system that allows full remote
monitoring and control and the new low noise, high performance blade.
“This was always a two pronged approach, our customers are looking for increased performance levels and maximised
efficiency, as well as a reduction in noise output and the Defender’s new design provides both.
“While the cost of research and development into the new blades has been significant, the results prove the money was
well spent.
“The major improvements mean we already have a high level of interest in the new blade from new and existing customers
both here and overseas,” he said.
“While the blade was primarily designed for the New Zealand and Australian markets there has already been interest from
USA and other countries due to the improvements we can offer.”
The new Defender wind machines will have a number of benefits for those in the rural sector. The performance increase
means less machines will be required on each property and in colder areas frost fighting performance will be increased.
In addition the low noise output will substantially reduce complaints and issues with neighbouring properties and will
allow machines to be installed into areas where traditional designs are too noisy.
While the new blade design will be standard on all Defender wind machines, FMR Group has recognised there is a
substantial demand for a retrofit option to install on existing wind machines and these will also be available next
year.
ends