Types Of Generators Used In Wind Turbines Pdf
Wind turbines are a great source of renewable energy. They use the wind to generate electricity, which can be used to power homes, businesses, and even entire cities. A wind turbine consists of various components, including the blades, rotor, generator, and tower. The generator is one of the most important components of a wind turbine, as it is responsible for converting the kinetic energy of the wind into electrical energy. There are different types of generators used in wind turbines, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will discuss the different types of generators used in wind turbines in detail.
Synchronous Generators
Synchronous generators are the most commonly used generators in wind turbines. They are similar to the generators used in conventional power plants, and they operate at a constant speed. Synchronous generators have a rotor and a stator, and they require a direct current (DC) voltage to operate. The DC voltage is provided by an external source, such as a rectifier or a battery. When the rotor rotates, it generates an alternating current (AC) voltage in the stator windings. The AC voltage is then converted into a usable form of electricity by an inverter.
Synchronous generators are reliable and efficient, but they require a complex control system to maintain a constant speed. They are also expensive and require periodic maintenance.
Induction Generators
Induction generators are another type of generator used in wind turbines. They do not require a DC voltage to operate, and they are simpler and less expensive than synchronous generators. Induction generators have a rotor and a stator, but the rotor is not connected to a power source. Instead, the rotor is allowed to rotate freely, and the wind provides the torque to drive the rotor. The rotor generates an AC voltage in the stator windings, which is then converted into a usable form of electricity by an inverter.
Induction generators are less efficient than synchronous generators, and they require a larger wind turbine to generate the same amount of electricity. They are also more difficult to control, as their speed varies with the wind speed.
Permanent Magnet Generators
Permanent magnet generators are a newer type of generator used in wind turbines. They use powerful magnets to generate a DC voltage in the stator windings. The DC voltage is then converted into a usable form of electricity by an inverter. Permanent magnet generators are simpler and more efficient than other types of generators, and they do not require an external power source to operate. They are also more reliable and require less maintenance.
Permanent magnet generators are more expensive than other types of generators, and they are not suitable for use in large wind turbines. They are most commonly used in small-scale wind turbines for residential or farm use.
Conclusion
There are different types of generators used in wind turbines, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Synchronous generators are reliable and efficient, but they require a complex control system. Induction generators are simpler and less expensive, but they are less efficient and more difficult to control. Permanent magnet generators are newer and more efficient, but they are more expensive and not suitable for use in large wind turbines. When choosing a generator for a wind turbine, it is important to consider the specific needs and requirements of the project.
