February 2026: New Standards Enhance Ice Adhesion Testing for Wind Turbine Coatings

In February 2026, the Paint and Colour Industries saw significant progress in standardizing test methods for evaluating ice adhesion on wind turbine rotor blade coatings. Two aligned standards have been published: CEN ISO/TS 19392-6:2026 and ISO/TS 19392-6:2026. Both documents introduce a centrifuge-based methodology for determining the resistance of coating systems to ice adhesion—a critical factor for wind turbine reliability in cold climates. These standards not only provide researchers and manufacturers with a reproducible framework for testing but also help ensure safer and more efficient turbine operation. As demand for renewable energy grows, the ability to measure and control ice adhesion on rotor blades directly supports industry goals for performance and safety.

Overview

The Paint and Colour Industries encompass a vital segment of manufacturing and technology, particularly in high-performance, outdoor applications like wind turbine blades. Coatings in this context must withstand severe weather, mechanical stress, and, notably, ice accretion. Effective standards are essential for managing quality, safety, and international trade, especially as wind energy expands into colder regions.

This article dives into two newly published international standards for February 2026, detailing:

• Their scope and technical requirements
• Implications for manufacturers, quality teams, and engineers
• Best practices for compliance and implementation
• The broader impact on wind turbine performance

By the end, you’ll be equipped to understand and act on these updates to maintain compliance and competitive advantage in the coatings sector.

Detailed Standards Coverage

CEN ISO/TS 19392-6:2026 – Ice Adhesion Testing Using Centrifuge

Paints and varnishes - Coating systems for wind-turbine rotor blades - Part 6: Determination and evaluation of ice adhesion using centrifuge (ISO/TS 19392-6:2026)

This standard provides a detailed methodology for measuring the adhesion of artificial ice to coatings on wind turbine rotor blades. The process leverages a centrifuge to simulate dynamic ice removal forces experienced during real turbine operation. Recognizing the diversity of icing scenarios, the standard defines basic ice types while leaving test parameters adaptable for specific applications.

Key requirements include:

• Preparation and conditioning of test panels, including substrate selection, surface roughness, and coating thickness (as per ISO 2808).
• Formation of artificial ice on the coating surface using standardized procedures, with careful control of ice properties and temperature.
• Use of a centrifuge to apply controlled, quantifiable forces that separate ice from the substrate, offering dynamic assessment versus static shear tests.
• Evaluation of adhesion strength post-test, including quantitative analysis and reporting protocols.
• Adaptability for a range of environments and conditions, enhancing real-world relevancy.

This methodology prioritizes reproducibility, safety, and comparability across laboratories and testing organizations. The standard also includes updates from previous versions, such as more information on alternative test methods; explicit handling of units and symbols; and greater consideration of surface conditions (e.g., mold presence).

Key highlights:

• Establishes a reproducible centrifuge test for dynamic ice adhesion
• Defines substrate and coating preparation, ice formation, and reporting steps
• Allows comparison of different coating systems and designs for rotor blades

Access the full standard:View CEN ISO/TS 19392-6:2026 on iTeh Standards

ISO/TS 19392-6:2026 – Global Alignment on Centrifuge-Based Ice Testing

Paints and varnishes — Coating systems for wind-turbine rotor blades — Part 6: Determination and evaluation of ice adhesion using centrifuge

Developed in parallel with CEN ISO/TS 19392-6:2026, this international specification delivers a harmonized approach for global industry stakeholders. The ISO document reiterates the importance of a standardized centrifuge-based testing method for simulating and evaluating ice adhesion on wind turbine blades under real-world, operational conditions.

Crucial specifications include:

• Utilization of test substrates and ice formation processes reflecting operational realities of wind turbine blades.
• Precise control and documentation of test parameters, enabling reliable comparison and regulatory acceptance across borders.
• Guidance on evaluating test results, including measurement of force/displacement at failure, and standardized reporting format.
• Comprehensive normative references (e.g., ISO 1513 for sample prep, ISO 4618 for terminology, ISO 15528 for sampling, and SAE ARP 5905A for tunnel calibration).

Of note in this revised edition:

• A new note clarifying centrifugal versus shear methodology for ice adhesion measurement.
• Additions to address surface contamination (such as mold), enhancing real-world applicability.
• Improved structure for data reporting and result calculation, ensuring greater transparency and consistency.

Key highlights:

• Offers a harmonized global framework for testing and reporting
• Includes expanded definitions and normative references for comprehensive scope
• Mirrors technical advances and practical feedback from previous editions

Access the full standard:View ISO/TS 19392-6:2026 on iTeh Standards

Industry Impact & Compliance

Implementing these updated standards impacts several key areas for businesses in the Paint and Colour Industries, especially those supplying or maintaining wind turbine blades:

• Quality Assurance: Harmonized test protocols mean greater reliability and confidence in performance claims for icephobic coatings, enabling robust product differentiation and reduced risk.
• International Trade and Market Access: By aligning with globally recognized ISO and CEN specifications, organizations can streamline certification and regulatory processes, opening access to new markets.
• Risk Management: As ice accretion can cause efficiency losses, material damage, and safety hazards (due to ice throw), compliance with stringent adhesion testing directly reduces liability.
• Procurement and Specification: End-users, including utilities and turbine manufacturers, gain consistent methods for qualifying suppliers and verifying that products meet operational safety criteria.

Compliance timelines depend on national adoption patterns and specific industry regulations—but early adoption offers a competitive edge.

Benefits of adopting the standards:

• Enhanced operational safety and reduced downtimes
• Better data for engineering optimization and warranty support
• Transparent, defensible results for audits and regulatory review

Risks of non-compliance:

• Rejection of products in tender processes
• Increased performance-related incidents (icing damage, unplanned maintenance)
• Regulatory penalties and damaged reputation

Technical Insights

While the standards each provide granular guidance, several technical themes emerge:

Common Requirements:

• Rigorous substrate and coating preparation, ensuring valid, repeatable results
• Control of test environment (temperature, humidity) for artificial ice formation
• Use of standardized ice types and documentation of ice thickness/mass
• Centrifuge settings calibrated to simulate realistic operational stresses
• Post-test examination for substrate damage or residual ice

Implementation Best Practices:

1. Align laboratory capabilities with requirements for test panel preparation and centrifuge operation.
2. Ensure staff are trained on new procedural updates, particularly concerning documentation and safety controls.
3. Incorporate new testing data into coating selection and R&D processes to support continuous improvement.
4. Establish transparent reporting protocols matching the standards’ guidance for audits and external review.

Testing and Certification Considerations:

• Use internationally accredited laboratories for third-party verification
• Document all deviations and observations, especially concerning unusual surface features (e.g., mold or contamination)
• Track changes across different coating technologies to benchmark performance

These best practices help streamline certification, reduce disputes over performance, and build stakeholder trust.

Conclusion / Next Steps

With the February 2026 publication of CEN ISO/TS 19392-6:2026 and ISO/TS 19392-6:2026, the Paint and Colour Industries have gained essential new tools for evaluating and ensuring the performance of wind turbine rotor blade coatings in icing environments. These standards set a new bar for accuracy, comparability, and operational relevance in ice adhesion testing, supporting both safety and innovation as the wind energy sector expands.

Key recommendations:

• Review your current coating testing protocols for alignment with these latest standards
• Engage with certified labs and update internal processes to match the new specifications
• Monitor additional updates in the ISO 19392 series for broader advancements
• Visit iTeh Standards to access, compare, and implement the full text of the standards

Stay informed and proactive—leveraging the latest specifications to deliver high performance and compliance in wind energy applications.