Small Wind Turbines

Introduction According to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), Small Wind Turbines (SWT’s) are defined as those having a capacity of 100 kilowatts (KW) or less. Small wind turbines have also been described as turbines with a rated power of less than 10 kW. Many small wind turbines can look like a miniaturized, ‘back yard’ version of the large, utility-scale, three-bladed commercial turbines.... [Click here to Read more]

Residential Wind Turbines

Introduction Residential wind turbines provide an efficient, cost-effective method to produce free electricity from the wind. A homeowner can save significantly on their electric bill by installing a simple wind turbine on their property. Residential wind turbines can be built by DIY homeowners, or they can be purchased online. With electric bill reductions of 50 to 90 percent being common, residential... [Click here to Read more]

Wind Turbine Blades

Introduction Wind turbine blades are an important component of a wind turbine. Generally, a wind turbine includes a rotating shaft that has several blades attached. The rotor is mounted on a housing or nacelle, which is positioned on top of a truss or tubular tower. Wind turbine blades are very similar in function to glider wings. Both are designed for maximum lift and efficiency with minimum drag.... [Click here to Read more]

Wind Turbine Design

Introduction Wind turbine design is still evolving, and many different designs are available. As wind turbine design is improved and larger numbers of turbines are being manufactured, wind turbine costs are being reduced. Wind turbine design is based on several factors, including available technnology, cost and schedule, and marketability. Wind turbine manufacturers wish to optimize their machines,... [Click here to Read more]

Vertical Wind Turbines

Introduction Vertical wind turbines are making an impression in the alternative energy scene these days for their unique design and new applications. Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWT’s) are enjoying a revival of popularity, as they offer a number of advantages over more conventional Horizontal Axis Wind Generators (HAWT’s). Vertical wind turbines are not a new concept; since the Persians... [Click here to Read more]