Components In a HAWT

Question 1

Anemometer

Answer 1

Used to measure wind speed

Question 2

Blades

Answer 2

Lift and rotate when wind is blown over them. Most have either 2 or 3 blades.

Question 3

Brake

Answer 3

Stops rotor in emergencies.

Question 4

Controller

Answer 4

Used to start machine as well as stop machine at speeds of about 55mph as it is not advisable to operate turbines at this speed.

Question 5

Gearbox

Answer 5

Connects low speed shaft to high speed shaft and used to increase rotational speed to produce electricity.

Question 6

Generator

Answer 6

this converts the rotational or KE of the shaft to electricity

Question 7

Nacelle

Answer 7

This is a structure located at top of generator that contains components.(housing)

Question 8

Pitch System

Answer 8

Used to adjust angles of blades in respect of wind direction

Question 9

Rotor

Answer 9

Blades and hub form rotor

Question 10

Tower

Answer 10

Supports overall structure. Taller turbine gather more energy as higher up (wind speeds higher)

Question 11

Yaw drive

Answer 11

this is used to adjust the position of rotor blades to keep them facing the wind when direction changes.

Question 12

Yaw Motor

Answer 12

Used to power yaw drive

Question 13

Wind Vane

Answer 13

Measures wind direction and communicates with yaw drive to ensure yaw drive is positioned properly with respect to wind direction.