Different Types of Wind Turbines

Getting a wind turbine installed can be one of the best methods of generating renewable energy. Since wind turbines extend in an upward direction, they don’t take up much space on the ground. But getting any kind of renewable energy source installed makes you question, “Is it worth it?”. 

It is normal to ask such a question as getting them installed is a heavy expense on anyone’s pocket. The answer is both yes and no. You need to think of the requirement of the wind turbine and where you are getting it installed. That is, if you are installing a heavy-duty wind turbine in an area where the speed of wind is not up to the standard benchmark, it will be a bad investment. Therefore, it is all about making a sound decision.

Wind turbines are generally of two different types; Horizontal Axis Wind turbines and Vertical Axis Wind Turbines. These types of turbines are installed for majorly microgeneration, that is the wind energy installation is done for home to generate electricity. Let’s have a detailed view of these two types of turbines.

Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines

Due to their efficiency and strength, Horizontal axis wind turbines are the most commonly used wind turbines. For any type of wind turbine, you need to make sure that the base is strong. Since these turbines extend vertically, it’s natural that there will be a heavy load on the base. On top of the tower, the rotor shaft is installed. It is installed at a good height so that it is exposed to stronger winds. The blades of the turbine are perpendicular to the wind.

When compared to the vertical axis wind turbines, these turbines produce more power with the rotation of the blades. The downside of horizontal axis wind turbines is getting the construction and installation done.

To support the weight of the tower, gearbox, blades, and generator, you need to get a very strong base constructed. Furthermore, you would need a crane to get the blades installed, as they can be extremely heavy to carry for a normal individual.

Also, these can suffer from structural damage if the wind flow is in a downward direction. To avoid major damage to the structure, you would also need to get a yaw control installed. This control allows you to find the direction of the wind flow and helps you to prevent any major damage.

Vertical Axis Wind Turbines

Unlike horizontal-axis wind turbines, these are not affected by frequent changes in the direction of the wind. The blades of the vertical axis turbine are installed perpendicular to the ground. This structure of the blade and rotor shaft gives them more durability against changes in the direction of the wind. 

Installing the shaft and its components high up on the tower can be a tedious task, so it is mounted near ground level. Since it is mounted at ground level, it reduces your maintenance cost and makes it even easier to install at locations such as rooftops.

The only downside to this turbine installation is the power, which is comparatively low as compared to horizontal axis turbines. Due to lower air drags, it loses its efficiency, when compared to the turbines which are installed at higher elevations, and exposed to higher wind speeds.

Which Turbine Is Best For You?

If you are looking to get wind turbine installation in Toronto, you must be confused as to which type of turbine to get. It can be a daunting task to choose because each of them has its own set of pros and cons. To make a sound decision keep certain things in mind.

Firstly, how much power do you need? If you need a turbine which can generate more power, then a horizontal axis turbine is the optimum choice. Whereas, if you are just looking to get a renewable energy source to reduce the electricity bill, vertical turbines might just work well.

Secondly, what kind of space do you have available? To install the horizontal turbine you would need decent enough ground space, whereas you can install the vertical axis turbine on the rooftop as well.

Thirdly, how much are you willing to invest? If you have the space for both types of turbines, then you must think about the cost. Now the cost is not just the installation investment, but also the yearly maintenance cost. Horizontal axis turbines come at a higher maintenance cost as compared to vertical ones. If it is affordable then you can opt for the horizontal axis turbine, if not then the vertical axis is a great choice.