Archive for July, 2010
Windmill Power From out of the Way Places
July 31st, 2010 | 
Author: Windmill power is one very important source of power that needs to be expanded. In a previous post we talked about the possibility of illness that could be caused by living to close to a windmill farm. If that concerns you then you are in luck. Plans for windmill farms located out in the ocean are in the works. So far five countries have embraced this clean and plentiful source of power and more are coming.
Although these offshore wind turbine farms are being fought off by residents of costal communities. For example a planed windmill project in Nantucket project has been kept from going forward for years. Others are still in the planning stages, “Early last month the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities announced approval to construct 96 wind turbines located 16-20 miles off the shore of Atlantic City.” stated by Anita Ferguson of the delmarvanow.com.
Unfortunately, the page to read the full article no longer exists.
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Residential Wind Turbines – Don’t Live to Close
The green power that comes from wind turbines is wonderful as long as you don’t live to close to a wind farm.
A pediatrician named Dr. Nina Pierpont has written a book on the medical problems people have had that live very close to wind turbine farms, Wind Turbine Syndrome “likely to become an industrial plague”
According the CTV.ca News Staff
“Some early findings suggest that wind turbines create a high intensity, low frequency sound that may have an effect on the body. Not only can the sound potentially cause debilitating illness. Some researchers believe that the vibrations the sound causes in the inner ear may lead to vibro-acoustic disease, which can cause dizziness, nausea and sleep disturbances.”
This does not appear to be a problem for all people that live close to residential wind turbines and many of there wind farms are a distance form communities.
It is still a good idea to keep in mind when wind farms are coming to your neighborhood, or when looking at property in an area with residential wind turbines near by.
Here is the link to the full story to help you decide for yourself if you want to live close to residential wind turbines.
Wind Turbines And Windmills In Europe
Europe is one of the highest rated countries concerning the use of wind turbines. Wind turbines generate more electricity for Europe as an alternative source of energy than the United States and Germany.
European Wind turbine manufacturers work diligently to make improvements. By letting consumers have a better understanding of the wind turbine and how it works. As well as how many wind turbines are already supplying an alternate source of energy for Europe.
European agencies believe that wind turbines not only have the potential to satisfy a much needed energy demand, but also has a significant and vital role in households and the economy. The energy battle will be won by those countries of the world that embrace a strategy of developing, deploying and exporting alternative energy solutions. The wind turbine is that solution, to a world that cannot afford to live without energy.
In fact, in Europe Wind farms are more correctly called wind power plants. More than ten percent of Europe today has this alternative energy source. The wind turbine. Most small homes and businesses are encouraged to invest in this alternative in an effort to conserve energy resources.
Europe contains the largest concentration of wind turbines. With nearly one percent of the nation’s 5 million inhabitants owning a wind turbine or have a share in a wind turbine. Europeans excel over many of the smaller places that are just realizing the use of wind turbines, and the benefits of the machines.
After years of playing second fiddle to mainstream power sources, Europe’s renewable energy sector is now going from strength to strength. Outnumbering wind turbines in the United States. Europe is setting the example. By the means of wind turbine plants being set into action all over the country of Europe.
According to statistics, 40% of the world’s wind farms over the next eight years will be controlled by Europe. As 13 of the 20 largest wind power markets are already located in Europe. Wind turbine power is essentially the same for creating electricity in Europe as it is in the United States, however Europe uses this alternate energy resource more.
Manufacturers in Europe operate much like those found in the United States. The same technology and performance of the wind turbine is basically the foundation for these companies too. The Wind turbine does differ in Europe in some ways. According to the wind indifference and gusts. But, Eastern Europe is pegged to grow by 33% annually in the wind turbine industry.
Many home owners in Europe consider buying a windmill for their home an investment, much like buying a car or anything else. Wind turbines are as common to them as cars. Yet in the United States it is a slower process. Europeans use the vertical axis windmill without even giving it a second thought. They already know the benefits of using the machine and the lower cost of living it enhances by saving on electrical expenses.
Wind turbines in Europe are beneficial to their economy as well as to the environment. This they take very seriously, according to the percentage of those wind turbines currently in Europe. Giving a better understanding of the statistics and resources of what the wind Turbine includes.
Wind Turbines And Birds
A column published in 2004 contained concerns raised by naturalists that birds were being killed by wind turbines. It is true that birds have been killed by the machines. Naturalists argued that though wind turbines could be a good thing, they were a risk when it came to the birds that inhabited the area where the wind turbine fields were located.
Small home wind turbines, designed for home use, rely solely on the wind to move the blades and were a concern as well. When the wind isn’t blowing and the wind turbine is not moving, this would allow birds to perch or try to build a nest. These machines were changed too, although most of the incidents with birds were in the wind turbine fields.
The first step is always knowing a problem does exist. However, that is also the means of finding a solution. There are more positive aspects and evaluations than there are negative with the wind turbine. Every product has a negative side, but every product has room for improvement, and better development.
Since this extensive column was published by the Buffalo Sunday News, researchers as well as Wind Turbine companies are taking extra measures of precaution so the machines are more “bird friendly.”
With new technology, researchers were also able to slow the rotation of the bigger wind turbines down. This was accomplished by making the blade angle in a different way. Also, larger wind turbines in the wind fields no longer have space for birds to get into the back where the shaft is located. In order for the bird to perch or nest. This means more bird fatalities were during bird migration apparently. Amazingly consumers believed companies designed the new wind turbines with carbon fiber blades that weighed more. This is not true. And the wattage output by these machines though rotating slower, remained consistent.
The result of a recent study indicated that the bird mortality rate at wind turbine fields had dropped. Communication towers now have more fatalities per tower than a wind turbine rotating in a field. Household wind turbine fatalities with birds have almost ceased completely.
There are approximately 16,000 wind turbines operating in the United States today. Companies and manufacturers as well as owners all comply with the guidelines and
restrictions concerning the environment and the safety of the birds
It is a continuous effort upgrading the larger wind turbines. Research is constant and improvements are made at a rapid pace. Not only for the efficiency of the wind turbine and how they operate but for the safety of birds too.
In an unofficial study, the conclusion stated that for one wind turbine there were three bird fatalities for one year. In effect a cat roaming loose in a residential area will kill on average of six birds in one year.
On average, research and development improvements are the highest priority concerning the wind turbine. And this process continues as more wind turbines are used. Providing better use, as well as safety for the environment and requirements that are in effect pertaining to the wind turbine.
New Technology In Wind Turbines
Companies are constantly working on new technology in Wind Turbine. Different types are tested for durability, performance, and efficiency. Wind turbine companies expand to a global field. Just as wind turbines are all over the world today.
Even though wind is the essential key to the wind turbine’s performance, the newly discovered technology goes beyond today’s state-of-the-art mega-watt-class wind turbines.
To give you an idea at a glance, of how wind turbines are being improved and inspected. Giving alternate energy information and letting you know the certain changes in the wind turbine as well as the generators and other equipment associated with the wind turbine.
The Air-X Wind Turbine, distributed by Southwest Windpower, uses a new microprocessor based technology. Creating an increased performance for the Wind Turbine. The Air Turbine is the world’s number one selling small turbine. It has improved battery charging capabilities as well as a reduced “flutter” noise from the machines. This comes from the use of the carbon fiber composite blades.
The development of research on wind turbines has increased since 2001, as more customers are in the market for alternative energy systems. Newer designs much like the Air-X are also equipped to actually shut down during large wind gusts to prevent damage to the machine. It takes just an eight mile an hour wind to get a turbine going. For optimal performance, a twelve mile an hour wind is all that is required for a small home used wind turbine.
Researchers are hoping to have “wind farms” all over the United States. Funded by the government. These “wind farms” will not only help out the economy by using a natural resource, but allow companies to expand their technology on the wind turbine even further.
By tracking and observation, of the wind turbines improvements on blade turning, weight of the tower, height of the tower, and many other conditions. The higher advanced wind turbines consist of many parts. Gear boxes, rotation devices, magnetic mechanisms, and other parts that ensure the quality and performance of the machines.
The wind turbine is capable of handling extreme wind conditions and windy environments. However those closer to the coast require different specs. Such as heavier gauged towers and blades. These turbine machines also have more than three blades in most cases.
Enjoy the benefits of utility power and reduce your electric bill every time the wind blows. This utility-connected system with the use of wind turbines, has its incentives.
Though the image of the Windmill has changed tremendously, the Wind Turbine instills the same concept for small homes, and creating electricity by a windmill.
On a last note, the horizontal windmill is not in as high of a demand as the vertical windmill. Vertical windmills or Wind Turbines are used to create power. While the horizontal windmill was used mainly for irrigation and grinding grain. Both types are still an active part of our environment today.
Wind turbine technology improvements are essential for the further development of future wind turbines manufactured. What types work on homes, and what types work in wind turbine fields. An alternate source of energy for our generation, as well as generations to come.
Wind Turbines And Propeller Designs
Windmills, or known today more as Wind Turbines, are machines designed to convert the energy of the wind using rotating blades to create power. These machines have been around for over a century. They have gone from being built to aid in irrigation and grinding wheat, to the conservation of power.
Windmills and Wind Turbines have many designs. The type of design depends on the location and how these machines will be used.
Hopefully, you will learn more about the wind turbine, and the propeller designs by some of this information. As well, get a better insight of this powerful alternate source of energy the wind turbine can provide. A quick look at the basic of wind mills and how a windmill works.
In our modern day society, we build a windmill for power to lower costs of electricity by using a natural resource. The wind. Power is generated in the form of electricity by converting the rotation of turbine blades into electrical current by means of an electrical turbine generator. The power in the wind is extracted allowing it to blow past moving blades that exert torque on a rotor. This way an electrical current can be created. It is literally how a windmill works. Providing power for whatever need you may have.
More people are building Windmills on their own land. While there are others who buy Wind Turbines from established companies. There are several companies to choose from. Some tractor supply companies sell them as well. Public electric companies also assist you in buying Windmills or Wind Turbines, depending on where you live. You will see a lot of these machines in windy locations, and locations where there are no obstacles to interfere.
These power wonders consist of being built by a basic design although newer and better designs are being discovered all the time. The tower or base of the machine must be heavy enough to keep it grounded and tall enough for wind current. The turbine blades or “sails” are placed in a wheel shaped manner. Consisting of three or more blades depending on the size. Modern blades usually imitate the design of the propeller of an airplane for better performance. While these blades were made of wood in the past, more of them are being replaced with other materials. An outpost or shaft ascends out from the back of the wheel or “rotor” which allows the wheel to rotate freely in the wind moving the blades.
Companies that sell Wind Turbines can determine which type is right for your purpose. They can also provide additional information. To purchase the type with three blades or one with six, it is a natural and convenient way to harness the wind. These machines are all over the world today and more of them continue to rise.
On a final note, the wind turbine seems to be the “wave” of the future. Providing an alternate way of receiving a source of energy. No matter what your need is.
Windmill Blades, And From What They Are Made
Decades ago if you drove by a field and happened to see a windmill spinning in the wind, chances are the blades were made of wood. With new inventions and better technology today, wood is still used as material for turbine blades. The design is different however. And a lighter wood material is used, in order to carve the blade and faster speed rotation.
By knowing and understanding the different types of blades, and how they improve or decrease the effectiveness of a wind turbine, you can purchase this alternate energy source with confidence. Knowing it will meet your needs.
The most recent blade design is made of fiber-glass and epoxy resin. Although this blade is in its first stages and not yet marketed, what makes it unique is its curvature like tip. This allows it to catch low wind speeds and would be considered a good design for a wind turbine used in the Midwest.
Some turbine blades have actually been made with the raw material made for PVC piping. In strong lengthy winds they have been found to break. But inexpensive to replace.
Researchers have done experiments with several different materials for turbine blades. Weight, wind resistance, durability, speed rotation, sound output, and of course cost are evaluated. Glass has never been used in experiments although plexi-glass was tested. It failed due to not being able to withstand long periods of wind, and the sound output was ineffective.
Many materials have been tested poly foam and aluminum, to name a few more and their performance again was different. They were also found less effective.
The turbine blade made of carbon fiber is light weight, and has a razor sharp edge which allows it to literally cut through the wind and makes it virtually silent. This is the material preferred and used in most wind turbine machines sold today.
Another factor evaluated was how many blades would be placed on a turbine windmill. Three blades almost instantly became the most popular. More blades seemed to increase noise and slow down the actual rotation of the turbine’s propeller formation. After more research was done the concept of using more than three blades was no longer a factor.
The bigger commercialized wind turbines were more effective in putting out the expected wattage than one with six blades. This was proof that three blades were better. These turbines are as big as two football fields or more in size.
The smaller wind turbines for home use also remained with the propeller style and three blades as a result of its performance, producing the correct type of wattage expected.
Carbon fiber blades in the right formation was the inventive solution for the vertical windmill and the wind turbines of today.
The wind turbine blades as a whole, are simply part of their design. However, an important “part” to the quality of performance of the entire wind turbine machine.
Water Pump and Windmill Pricing
When it comes to purchasing a wind turbine, a water pump or “windmill” accessories, what is it the consumer should look for? The first step, is finding the best manufacturer equipped to answer all your questions about the machines and have the best quality machines to do exactly what the consumer wants to do. That is to save money by using an alternative energy source.
By giving you some idea of windmill pricing, you will have an idea of how you can save in the long term view of owning a wind turbine. What this consists of and how to go about having an alternate source of energy of your own.
Putting an exact price for a water pump or Wind Turbine (windmill) would be impossible to do. A more practical solution is a pricing range. Many things must be factored into the price. How tall the tower will be, is an example.
The average cost of a wind turbine can be any where from $1,500.00 to over $4,000.00. This depends on the consumer, and the manufacturer you are purchasing it from. The tower raising kit averages from $300.00 to $500.00. This is something you have to buy, regardless of the wind turbine. The actual height of the tower is also taken into consideration.
Pricing is basically set on a wind turbine’s performance. Simple wind turbine kits have the lower price range. Turbines equipped with higher battery charging, faster blade rotation, and accessories, to name a few details, are in the higher priced bracket. The blades are also a consideration. Although virtually all the turbine models are based on the design of an airplane propeller, the materials used to make the blades are of many different materials. This can also increase the price as well. Sometimes there is also an installation fee.
Water pumps that I have researched, range from $300.00 to $1,000.00. Designed especially for aqua and marine usage. But once again, it depends on the consumers needs and the company that is selling it.
The main consideration put into the cost of buying the wind turbine (windmill) or the water pump is based on “wattage” the machine is capable of producing. The more wattage it can produce, the higher in price range it will be. If the wattage output is lower the machine will cost less.
Most Wind turbines (windmills) and water pumps are made to look sleek and not big and bulky. Sleek enhances performance but it also interests the consumer too.
A homeowner would not want a wind turbine or water pump machine that is equipped to be put in a wind turbine field or plant. These turbines, which are larger cost a larger amount of money and will not be effective for the small home. Smaller wind turbines and pumps are specially designed for homes and the cost is lower.
The price of a wind turbine seems to be of little amount, when compared to the savings of the future. Having an alternate energy source affects the economy and the environment. Providing the next generation with resources as well.
The Good And Bad In Windmills For Your Home.
It is exciting to know there is an alternate source of energy that can be used to meet your needs. When considering an alternate energy source such as windmill power, there are several things to consider. Stay open minded, and then decide what’s best for you.
The first thing that might be an appeal of a windmill is lower utility bills. Some wind turbines are designed to harness the kinetic energy in the wind and convert it to electricity. However, small wind turbines may not have batteries and the amount of power generated relies completely on the wind. The point being that if wind is blowing at least seven to ten miles per hour, the wind will serve as the alternate energy source. If not, the wind turbine will have no output and the electricity needed for the home will be purchased through the utility company. In a normal residence, a home is provided power by a local utility company if the wind is weak or non-existent, and by the wind when conditions are better.
On the other hand, if the wind turbine produces more power than the house needs, the extra electricity in some cases is sold to the utility company, or there’s at least a reduction in the home’s utility costs. This can be a nice little bonus that could help pay for the windmill that much faster.
The effects of power production from coal or natural gas generation on the environment might be another consideration for the consumer. Household wind turbines create no pollution when generating electricity. In order to provide electrical services to one home, the utility company generates approximately 1.2 tons of air pollutants which ultimately go into our atmosphere.
Consumers must consider the location of the windmill as well. Obstacles such as buildings, trees, or anything else that could prevent wind getting to the turbine would definitely be a disadvantage, making the cost of the wind turbine harder to justify. However, some companies provide towers high enough to place the wind turbine blades above turbulence and obstacles so you can enjoy alternative energy with much more efficiency and reliability.
Of course, the final consideration is the cost of buying and installing a small wind turbine for the home. Figuring out f it will be an investment and basically pay for itself over time, or end up being a money pit because of things like the possibility of no wind, constant maintenance and upkeep, as well as restrictions, laws, or guidelines about where the windmill can be located and its size, height, etc. This could be a big knock against the idea of purchasing a wind turbine.
It would definitely be in your best interest when considering the purchase of a small windmill for the home to check with manufacturers or companies that sell windmills, and learn as much about them as possible. Understanding the concepts of wind turbines can only benefit you in your decision about whether or not to get a wind turbine. Whether you opt for a windmill as an alternative energy source, or look elsewhere, knowing what they can do, and familiarizing yourself with them makes this decision a whole lot easier.
Plans For Building a Windmill.
Building a windmill does not have to be difficult. All you really need are a shop, basic power and hand tools, and of course dedication to actually get the job done. A machine in the eight to eleven foot range can be built pretty easily, and you could have it up and running in a week or two.
If you want to take a shot at building your own wind turbine, be sure to be safe and legal. Remember to make sure you are located where a windmill can be placed. Above all, find out about the zoning laws in your area. Any restrictions that might be enforced, and what you have to do in order to have a windmill where you are located should be considered. It would be a shame to get the machine up and running just to have to remove it because you didn’t familiarize yourself with the restrictions. Do this first, before you even make your plans for the model. Go over your plans long before you build a windmill.
Before beginning, give yourself a plan. Have an idea of what you want to accomplish. Starting with drawings or a small model of your windmill are a good idea. They don’t have to be complex. As an example, think about what and how you would need to build the tower. It should be high enough for good wind strength, but heavy or grounded securely so it won’t fall over. Think about looking at some manufactured designs and see how they are put together.
Of course, the materials you use depend on what you want the windmill to do, the normal weather conditions in your area, and your budget. Find out what works in windy situations, and what doesn’t. Some people have even used scrapped car parts. Special skills might help too, such as welding, if you are working with steel or other metal material, or carving, if you are working with wood. Whatever material you choose should fit the function you want the windmill to perform. Some companies sell windmill kits you can build yourself. The key no matter what material you use is to create a sturdy machine that can withstand the wind.
The blades for the windmill can be made with wood as long as the wood is light weight. You can also use aluminum or even steel, but the steel blades might be too heavy to be practical. The length of the blades depend on the size you want your windmill to be and the height of the tower. Angle the blades like you would see on a typical household fan to collect the most wind, and taper the blades so they are thinner at the end. Three blades work the most efficiently, but you can always experiment with more. Once the windmill is completed, you will need an anchor or shaft to connect the windmill to the tower while allowing the blades to turn to face into the wind. Picture an old time weather vane on a barn to get an idea of how to attach it to the tower.
Once the windmill is completed you can connect the windmill to an alternator or generator. A windmill extracts energy from moving air by slowing the wind down and transferring the energy into a shaft, which turns your alternator or generator to create electricity. Car alternators work great for this function.
Usually power companies or wind turbine dealers have pamphlets or other literature to assist you with designing your windmill. Your windmill can be primitive and simple, yet still be an effective windmill. Have a good understanding of windmill or wind turbine design and function before you build one. It might even be a good idea to experiment first and decide if you actually want to attack the concept of building a full scale windmill. Use your creativity, ingenuity, common sense safety measures, and most importantly, have fun.