WIND TURBINES

WIND TURBINES 

Should you wish to install a wind turbine in your home, take into consideration the surrounding environment of the placement location? If that meets the above then only you can have a wind turbine installation to be cost effective and efficient. It also depends on the area you are in as wind speeds vary a lot. If you live in South Africa, on an estate (security complex), the power from the wind is usually weaker than in the middle of a field in the countryside. If you live in the countryside, and are surrounded by many fields and open spaces, then the average wind speed approaching your home may be more powerful than inner town or city locations. In this article, we will learn the basics of understanding the process of electricity production through wind. There are two types of wind turbines. There are the vertical and horizontal types and these designs use the wind in slightly different ways regarding the wind energy harnessing process. Horizontal wind turbines are the more common design, and use angled propeller type blades to create friction when facing the wind, resulting in the spinning motion. The vertical turbine uses the wind to spin on a centre point on the ground, resulting in the whole construction spinning round. During that period the electricity production is significantly similar in both designs. The construction only makes a difference in the position and design of the blades which are used to create friction with the wind. Should you still not understand, imagine the power of wind coming from an electric fan. When it comes to an electric fan, the electricity is generated by blowing motion and a wind turbine works in a similar position only it is the opposite direction. Using wind to blow the blades, which are attached to a generator, creating the electricity?  The blades are attached to a long shaft and inside them is the wind turbine which then the shaft begins to be connected to a generator and then this begins to generate electricity.

WIND TURBINE FACTS

·         If there are any large hills or mountains close by, then the placement of wind turbines may not be your best option.

·         Wind turbines require a substantial wind speed to generate electricity efficiently. The faster the wind, the more output in watts you can generate (but you cannot go over your turbines capacity.)

·         If there is a forest or collection of trees nearby, then you may decide to opt for a different means of renewable energy such as solar or geothermal power due to a possible poor wind speed.

·         Before purchasing any turbines, you should consider researching and maybe even hiring a professional www.autogate.co.za to do a survey on the surrounding area, to determine if a wind turbine would be economically viable in your surrounding area.

·         If the surrounding area is fit to generate power from the wind, you may wish to go and purchase a wind turbine (like the one below), and choose where you plan to install it.

·         Many people suggest attaching small home turbines on a pole in a well exposed area, to harness the majority of the winds force.

·         Once installed in an open space, above any large objects, make sure your turbine is facing the most common wind direction. Some wind turbines are able to adjust themselves to face the position of the wind.

·         It is important that you receive expert advice when planning to purchase a wind turbine, as some may not be suitable for your requirements. A wind turbine supplier may be able to help you with this process.

·         An electrician www.autogate.co.za may be able to hook the turbine up to your power supply to provide your home with an extra boost in electricity, reducing the amount of power you use from your electricity provider.