Efficiency & LIPAHow Wind Power Works
Wind energy is a form of solar energy created by the uneven heating of the Earth's surface by the sun. Most small wind turbines use a horizontal axis propeller, or rotor, to capture the kinetic energy of the wind and convert it into rotary motion to drive a generator, which usually is designed specifically for the wind turbine. The rotor consists of two or three blades, usually made from wood or fiberglass. (These materials give the turbine the needed strength and flexibility, and have the added advantage of not interfering with television signals.) The structural backbone of the wind turbine is called the mainframe, and it includes the "slip-rings" that connect the wind turbine - which rotates as it points itself into changing wind directions - and the fixed tower wiring. The tail aligns the rotor into the wind.
Basic Parts of a Wind Electric System:
- Fiberglass/ composite rotor assembly (usually 2 or 3 blades)
- A drive shaft with support bearings
- A generator (or alternator mounted on a frame)
- A tail to keep the turbine properly directed
- A tower to support the rotor and drive train
- Foundation/ guy wires to stabilize the structure
- Other components (controllers, electrical cables, interconnection equipment, invertors)
To avoid turbulence and capture greater wind energy, turbines are mounted on towers. As a rule of thumb, turbines should be mounted at least 30 feet above any structures or natural features within 300 feet of the installation. Smaller turbines can go on shorter towers. For example, a 250-watt turbine may be mounted on a 30-50 foot tower, while a 10 kW turbine will usually need a tower of 80-120 feet. Towers come in a variety of designs, including tubular or latticed, guyed or self-supporting. Wind turbine manufacturers also offer towers, and can ensure that the tower meets required building and safety specifications as well as being compatible with the turbine.
New York Wind Power
New York Wind Video Courtesy of
John Robinson
