- Wind generator towers are large structures that harness the power of the wind to create energy. Wind blows vertically and horizontally, but the majority of wind generators operate to capture only horizontal wind, since that is the most efficient way.
- Wind generators need to be located in a place that provides enough wind to supply and make it worth the power it will supply. Wind across the globe is separated into 7 classes, with turbines usually used in classes above 4. Anything less would not be efficient enough to place turbines in. Class 7 winds are located on mountain ridges and areas a few miles offshore.
- Wind generators have three-bladed systems attached to a large shaft. An electric generator is located right behind the three blades, and that is what is used to provide the power. The wind generators are made to rotate both left and right, depending on which way the wind is blowing.
- As the blades spin, they turn a turbine. The turbine is connected to a generator that also spins specialized wires across magnets. When the wires brush across the opposing magnets, electricity is created and sent down through a shaft that is attached to a power grid.
- Wind turbines are grouped together to across large swathes of land. They are strategically placed to avoid any interference with each other. The tower does not create any power when wind is not blowing, but the location usually provides a constant wind source that keeps the blades spinning and creating power. Wind generators have a 30-year lifetime.
Comments
green-energy said
on 9/24/2009 I would like to point out that wind turbines are not all large commercial towers.
You can make/purchase your own for home use.
A great way to reduce your energy bills and your carbon footprint.
http://www.squidoo.com/DIY-WINDMILL-ELECTRICITY-HOW-TO-MAKE-A-WINDMILL-GENERATOR