WIND TURBINE TESTING
ICC-SWCC review utilizes two data streams en route to certification: structural analysis and field-testing. Field testing takes by far the longest time to complete as testing must be performed in “free air.” Consequently, ICC-SWCC makes several field testing options available to expedite the process for applicants.
ICC-SWCC applicants may choose to use an accredited or non-accredited laboratory, or to conduct the testing themselves (subject to ICC-SWCC policies). Presently there are a limited number of testing organizations that are accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 to conduct testing to the standards utilized by ICC-SWCC. Testing organizations who are not accredited are subject to site inspections by an assigned and qualified inspector at the outset of testing to confirm compliance with ISO 17025 and the applicable test standards. The applicant is responsible for Site Evaluation Fees, which include travel costs, and are assessed by ICC-SWCC.
All testing must comply with the applicable standards and ICC-SWCC Policies. Testing costs are the responsibility of the certification applicant and must be negotiated and paid directly to the testing organization. ICC-SWCC does not conduct testing directly, nor does it select the testing organization to be used for a given application. Details about field testing requirements are provided in the Rules for Wind Turbine Product Listing Reports.
ICC-SWCC maintains a list of test organizations that provide testing services for small and/or medium wind turbines seeking certification for information purposes. Applicants are not required to use a testing organization on the list, but ICC-SWCC must approve the testing organization to be used in advance in order to ensure that the resulting report will be acceptable for use with an application. This step is normally completed during the Preliminary Review. Note: The list may not be all-inclusive, nor is it and endorsement of any test organization or individual.
Applicants with existing test reports and other certifications for their turbine(s) should apply for a Preliminary Review to determine the applicability to the SWT or MWT programs. Existing test reports may be used in whole or in part to support an application for ICC-SWCC certification, subject to the approval of the ICC-SWCC Certification Commission and compliance with ICC-SWCC policies. If additional or “gap” testing is required (in addition to existing test reports) to satisfy the requirements of the certification program, these will be identified during the Preliminary Review.