Vertical Axis Wind Turbines

Vertical Axis Wind Turbines

People have been harnessing the wind’s power for centuries to pump water and perform other mechanical tasks. But it’s only been in the last few decades that the expertise for converting the wind’s energy into electricity has made the necessary strides to become an alternative source for energy production. Most of this technology has been applied to large scale operations and some smaller units for home use.

For the home owner interested in producing their own electricity, choices have been limited primarily to investing in a horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT). These units can carry a hefty price including the installation of a large tower, maintenance, plus the regulation in some areas regarding tower height, noise concerns and environmental issues.

For city dwellers with no place to erect a HAWT, wind power has not been an option at all. The vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) provides a more economical alternative for the small scale user. Some of the most recent designs have overcome the problems of early models such as their inability to self-start in light winds plus issues of noise and vibration levels. Most of the new technology works well in an urban or suburban environment where some wind turbulence is inevitable unless the turbine is sited well above any surrounding buildings.

A HAWT has to physically rotate to face into the wind every time the direction changes, requiring a large tower to place the rotors above all obstructions. The VAWT doesn’t require such clearances and can keep producing power in these turbulent areas.

Most vertical axis wind turbines are very silent, emitting only a slight humming sound near the equipment. The turbines turn at a lower speed unlike the larger tower turbines where the blade tips can travel at supersonic speeds becoming a threat to bats and birds traveling thru them. For these reasons they are safe to use in population centers, public spaces, parks, wildlife parks and on buildings. Some of the more adventurous designs have the look of sculpture adding another dimension to your installation.

The VAWT systems have a larger wind speed range and are able to self start in light winds, sometimes 2-3 meters per second, and continue producing electricity at much higher wind levels than the traditional HAWT units.

If you are considering alternative energy sources to lower your utility bills or to minimize your impact on the environment, vertical axis wind turbines offer new technology that can help you achieve your goals.

Article Summary

Most vertical axis wind turbines are very silent, emitting
only a slight humming sound near the equipment. Some of the
more adventurous designs have the look of sculpture adding
another dimension to your installation.

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