Horizontal Vs. Vertical Wind Turbines
While all wind turbines provide clean fuel, not all are exactly alike. Wind turbines with a horizontal axis are more common; these turbines have blades spinning perpendicular to the ground. However, some newer turbines offer horizontal axis rotation, featuring blades that spin parallel to the ground, like a helicopter. Each type has distinct pros and cons. Does this Spark an idea?
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Size and Weight
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When assembled, vertical wind turbines can be quite small. However, they require bulkier materials and more costly shipping when compared to the long, thin and lightweight components of traditional horizontal wind turbines.
Wind Direction
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Unlike vertical turbines, horizontal turbines function properly regardless of wind direction according to High Plains Construction. Horizontal wind turbines are ideal for locations where wind direction changes regularly.
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Efficiency
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Because of their multidirectional capabilities, horizontal wind turbines are able to convert more wind into power for greater efficiency and better power output.
Ecological Impact
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Horizontal wind turbines are more likely to disrupt land-based ecosystems since many models spin much closer to the ground. Vertical turbines, however, have been known to kill birds and disrupt aerial ecosystems.
Maintenance
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Both horizontal and vertical wind turbines are easy to maintain. A typical wind turbine of either variety can function for several years without a tune up.
Cost
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Horizontal wind turbines can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than vertical turbines. However, you may save money in the long-run with a horizontal turbine's more efficient power output.
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References
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Comments
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please tell me that the output of which turbine is good in low intensity of wind..
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some body please tell me that the output of which turbine is good in low intensity of wind.....
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yes, please fix the Ecological Impact section: the HAWT and VAWT should be switched.
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Good point Jesreal. Both wind turbine designs are fine in multi-directional wind. The wind only blows from one direction at a time. How are vertical axis turbines more efficient in this circumstance. Perhaps they are more efficient for other reasons.
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Jesreal Arcillas
Feb 23, 2011
"However, some newer turbines offer horizontal axis rotation, featuring blades that spin parallel to the ground, like a helicopter." I think 'horizontal axis' should be 'vertical axis' since if the blades spin parallel to the ground, then its axis must be perpendicular to the ground (in a vertical position).
