Category Wind turbine power

Can you store electric power from a wind turbine?

Indulge yourself in the wonder that is wind energy! This form of power is an efficient alternative source of energy that can make any household self-sufficient and is fast becoming the most popular option when it comes to providing energy for small homes.

This structure can be of great help to rural areas that are not within the scope of electric grids. Since their energy sources are limited, they can finally turn to a solution that can help them get electricity where they need it the most.  Even people who are on the grid itself use this technology when given a chance since using homemade wind turbines as an alternative energy source is a wonderful way to save up on electric bills.

This contraption can be a great substitute for solar panels during the rainy days.

Since off grid residents tend to use solar powered equipment, they are left helpless during storms and cloudy days. Having homemade wind turbines can really be a lot of help during those days. They can even work the storm to their advantage and increase productivity with these machines.

How does a wind generator work? This machine draws the wind’s momentum and slows it down with the use of its wind turbines. This gathered energy is then used to turn a generator that is stored inside to produce electricity. Power generated from these structures can depend upon the strength of the wind and the structure of the turbine itself

But what happens during those times when wind is not available? Is the technology simply rendered useless? Can electricity generated from these homemade wind turbines be stored?  This has been the problem for most wind generated power sources since the wind does not always go on par with electricity needs. Times of day that require a huge amount of energy consumption is when wind velocity is at its lowest. So what can you do about it?

Since more power is required to operate huge industries, larger vessels are required to store energy. Thus companies are now developing media that can help them store wind energy. For normal energy storage in small environments such as households you can use storage devices such as vehicle batteries. Using devices like these can help you maximize windy days by storing energy to help you during non windy days.  In general, the concept of storing wind energy is in fact possible. It would be more effective to be able to stack up on energy so that you can direct it when you want and how you want it.

The power of the wind is in the palm of your hand. Never run out of power again. This energy source may run low sometimes, but it will never truly dissipate and it is everywhere. This is an infinite energy source that will outlive everybody from this world. Take advantage of this energy source now! Not only will you harness energy the natural way but you will also save money in the process.

How to Increase the Maximum Capacity of Homemade Wind Turbines

Maximum Capacity of Homemade Wind Turbines:

Wind turbines have been marketed as a viable solution for alternative energy. However, not all turbines are created equal. Some for those who are seriously considering making homemade wind turbines, here are some things that one could do to increase maximum capacity.

Increase Rotor Diameter

One of the best things to do to increase wind power capacity is to increase the rotor diameter. In other words, install bigger rotors. A bigger rotor will mean having a bigger sweep area, or the total area encompassed by the rotor as it turns. And as a rule of thumb when considering what rotor to install: the sweep area is directly proportional to the power output. A bigger rotor = more power. One important thing to consider though when planning on getting really big rotors, it is best making sure that all legal permits are met before installing the rotors. The reason for this is that big rotors in a wind turbine can be a potential safety hazard especially if things go wrong.

Setup the Wind Turbine in an Area of Strong Winds

Another factor determining overall turbine power is the wind velocity. A basic formula state that the overall power capacity of the turbine is proportional to the cube of the wind speed. So if the wind speed doubles, the power output is multiplied by two to the third power! It is therefore most recommended to setup wind turbines in areas where gusts are relatively strong and a common thing. Now, this may sound really exciting and all, but it could be a bit challenging to say the least. Not everyone has the luxury of living in a windy place. Those living in windy areas are definitely in luck, but for those who live elsewhere, it is high time to look for another good alternative energy source because wind power may not be the best available option.

Consider the Sea Level

Something that also has to be factored in when trying to maximize power outputs in homemade wind turbines in the sea level where the turbine is located. The closer one gets to sea level, the denser the air becomes. This is called air density and it plays a part in the overall output of the wind turbine. When setting up a turbine, it is best to place it just a few meters above sea level. Positioning a wind turbine in higher areas is still possible however, and a lot of people do it but setting up the turbine within sea level range is by far the most ideal.

Make sure to use high quality materials

Aside from all the factors listed above, maximizing power output from homemade wind turbines will also mean getting the top of the line materials for the job. There is a theory that the maximum possible energy to be extracted from any wind turbine is only 59.3 percent. That means even with a full gust, only 59.3% of that gust can be converted to useful energy! It is therefore important to make sure that all materials are high quality to maximize that 59.3% useable energy.