Generate Electricity With a Wind Turbine
What defines a wind turbine? A wind turbine is sometimes called a windmill or wind generator. The names are at times used interchangeably, but there are differences. The wind turbine is the device that makes use of the wind energy to produce mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is either used as is or changed to electricity. A windmill uses the mechanical energy as is for pumping out water or for grinding jobs, whereas the wind generator uses it to produce electricity. Are there different kinds of wind turbines? There are two types of wind turbines, classified according to their orientation:
The DIY Route to Building a Windmill
- Horizontal Axis Turbines – The blades in these wind turbines turn along a horizontal axis.
- Vertical Axis Turbines – These turbine blades rotate along a vertical axis.
The horizontal axis wind turbines are most popular. They are more efficient than vertical axis turbines. What are some of the advantages of implementing a wind turbine to generate electricity? We will now look at the major benefits of a wind turbine:
- Power-Saving:: Wind turbines utilize a free source of energy – the wind. Thus they are a cost-effective method of producing electricity. And since they don’t use non-renewable resources, they also benefit the earth as a whole.
- Cost Saving: After the initial installation expense, all you’ll all you’ll have to pay for is their upkeep. The energy comes free and there is no other fuel.
- Impact on the Environment: The wind turbines are environment friendly in the way that they do not give off detrimental gases or impact the environment in any way.
- They Provide a Consistent Power Supply: A wind generator can make you independent from the the local power company. No more power outages!
Building Your Own Wind Turbine
What conditions are necessary for installing a wind turbine? While installing your own wind generator can be very beneficial for you and the environment, certain conditions must first be met. Here are some aspects to consider before installing a wind turbine. Ensure that the following two pre-requisites are met:
- The site for installation is at least one acre in size.
- Local wind speed must be around 11 mph
- The base and tower need to be sufficiently strong to stand up to turbulence
- Ensure proper tower height and distance between the generator and the cells.
A Video of Self-Build Wind Power