Wind energy is one of the oldest forms of energy. The wind mills of the Netherlands and the wind generators of the outback have been used to mill wheat, drive a blacksmiths hammer or pump water for irrigation and have been in use for hundreds of years.

Now there is increased interest in wind turbines and wind generators. These range from; small portable units available for yachts to large scale wind farms that can supply a small town. Wind generators are in principle the same as water generators, the difference is that the design and look of the systems suit the fluids that they both use. Obviously wind being a gas uses a large fan/propeller style whereas a water generator uses the turbine style of impeller because of the characteristics of the liquid/water.

If the energy is used directly to power machinery or equipment it is called a windmill. However if the energy is used to make electricity it is called a wind turbine, wind generator or a wind power unit. These electric generators are simply fan blades connected to a generator. This assembly sits on top of a tower so that the unit gets “clean” (non turbulent) wind for higher efficiency.

For example; the 5450 model for domestic use produces 500w at 24 volts at 8 meter per second wind speed. The unit operates from 3 m/sec and upto 30m/sec. For more information go to Jaycar electronics.

For a more in depth analysis on wind energy and related research click this link to go to the CSIRO wind energy research unit Australia’s foremost science research centre.

Image supplied by Jaycar.com.au click the link in the article for more.