Assignment-1

A comparative study between HAWT (Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine) & VAWT (Vertical axis Wind Turbine) For the conversion of wind speed as a kinetic energy into electricity, the machines used are known as Wind turbines. These turbines were initially installed and used by James Blyth in 1891. Since then there has been various machine designs which are used but they are majorly classified into two categories: 1. HAWT (Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine) 2. VAWT (Vertical Axis Wind Turbine) These machines are different in working by the axis of their rotation. The following figures are given for each of these machines.

Now the comparative study is given below for the users. VAWT v/s HAWT: Advantages
They can be packed closer together in wind farms, allowing more in a given space. Low effect of slowing down the air flow VAWTs are rugged, quiet, Omni-directional, and they do not create as much stress on the support structure. Designing wind farms using VAWTs can result in power output ten times as great as a HAWT wind farm the same size.

Disadvantages
VAWTs have a tendency to stall under gusty winds. VAWTs have very low starting torque, as well as dynamic stability problems. The VAWTs are sensitive to off-design conditions and have a low installation height limiting operation to lower wind speed environments. The blades of a VAWT are prone to fatigue as the blade spins around the central axis. The vertically oriented blades used in early models twisted and bent as they rotated in the wind. This caused the blades to flex and crack hence over time the blades broke apart Low efficiency of conversion around 10%

HAWT v/s VAWT: Advantage

Blades are to the side of the turbines center of gravity, helping stability. Blades are to the side of the turbines center of gravity, helping stability. The ability to pitch the rotor blades in a storm so that damage is minimized. Tall tower allows access to stronger wind in sites with wind shear and placement on uneven land or in offshore locations. Most of them are self-starting. Can be cheaper because of higher production volume. High efficiency of conversion about 50%

Disadvantage
Has difficulties operating near the ground and with turbulent winds because the yaw and blade bearing need smoother, more laminar wind flows. The tall towers and long blades are difficult to transport and need a special installation procedure. When placed offshore, they can cause navigation problem.

Cost effectiveness: The cost of establishing a HAWT of 2MW is about $ 1-3 million while that of a VAWT of 100W is about $200-$600. As shown by the above tables HAWT posses various improved benefits as compared with the VAWT so through this comparative study we can assume that HAWT is a better option as if now, unless the situation in terms of technological advancement does not change. So if the VAWT should be replacing the HAWT the improved technology has to be evolved.

Submitted By: Avijit Bajpai (M-11-05) Mohit Pandey (M-11-09) Paritosh Kotwal (M-11-12)