The Different Styles Of Wind Turbines Readily Available

The use of wind power is among the most environmentally friendly ways of generating electricity

. There are two types of wind turbines used in this form of alternative energy, known as horizontal axis and vertical axis. A turbine works by creating friction as its blades rotate. This is then converted into electricity by a generator.

Turbines can be used to generate electricity for a whole city or for one household. There are many small ones available for the home. The most common are the horizontal axis types, which are either free standing or mounted onto a roof. These are popular with people who wish to reduce their carbon footprint and save money. In some countries it is even possible to sell electricity from the turbine to an electricity grid.

The horizontal axis types are the most common and probably the most familiar to people. They have a propeller that rotates on a horizontal axis. As a winds speed is higher at altitude, the propeller is placed on a very high tower along with the generator. The propeller is movable so it is always facing the winds direction, and is mostly used in an area where the winds direction is fairly consistent.

The advantages of the horizontal axis types are that they can produce more energy. The disadvantage is that they are more difficult to maintain due to their height. Also a lot of pressure is placed on the propeller particularly during very high winds, so they are more prone to failure.

The vertical axis styles are not so commonly seen, they have vertical blades and the generator is at the bottom. As the air pushes against the arms, the whole unit rotates. These units are often put in locations where the direction of the air currents is less consistent. They are often mounted on top of buildings or where there is a wind tunnel, for example between two buildings.

Vertical axis turbines have two subtypes. These are called Darrieus and Savonius. The eggbeater-shaped Darrieus turbine produces more energy than its Savonius counterpart; however they require energy to begin rotating. The Darrieus models tend to be used where winds are less reliable. The Savonius models have two scoops on either side, which catch air currents, making the unit rotate. They do not produce as much electricity, but do not require any energy to get going. Savonius turbines are usually used where there are less turbulent winds.

The vertical Axis types can be grouped much closer together in a wind farm and take up less space. They are easier to maintain as the generator and main parts are close to the ground. They also do not require a turning mechanism, as they do not have to face the direction of the air flow. They are unable to produce as much energy as the horizontal types of wind turbines, but they can be placed at locations where a horizontal axis turbine cannot.

by: Cody Samet

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