Experiment in Energy

Measurement of Power Output

from a Wind Turbine

Instructor:
Prof. Wei-Cheng Wang

1. Aim
To measure and analyze the output of the wind turbine by changing the blade position.
2. Application
A wind turbine is meant to always work with the best efficiency. The core aim is to utilize
the maximum possible mechanical output from the wind and convert it to electrical
output.
The output depends on different factors, wind speed and load by the consumer is not
influenced by the wind turbine. However, state-of-the-art wind turbines are able to vary
the blade position in order to optimize the output. The dependence of the output on the
blade position is to be examined within the framework of this experiment.
3. Theory
A. SCENARIO

Wind turbines work by converting the kinetic energy in the wind first into rotational
kinetic energy in the turbine and then electrical energy that can be supplied, via the
national grid, for any purpose around the UK. The energy available for conversion mainly
depends on the wind speed and the swept area of the turbine. When planning a wind farm
it is important to know the expected power and energy output of each wind turbine to be
able to calculate its economic viability.
B. PROBLEM STATEMENT
With the knowledge that it is of critical economic importance to know the power and
therefore energy produced by different types of wind turbine in different conditions, in
this situation we will calculate the rotational kinetic power produced in a wind turbine at
its rated wind speed. This is the minimum wind speed at which a wind turbine produces
its rated power.

C. MATHEMATICAL MODEL

The following table shows the definition of various variables used in this model:

Under constant acceleration, the kinetic energy of an object having mass m and
velocity v is equal to the work done W in displacing that object from rest to a
distance s under a force F, i.e.:
E=W =Fs

(1)

According to Newtons Law, we have:

F=ma

(2)

E=mas

(3)

V 2=u2 +2as

(4)

(V 2u2 )
a=
2s

(5)

Hence,

Using the third equation of motion:

we get:

Since the initial velocity of the object is zero, i.e. u = 0, we get:

2

a=

V
2s

(6)

Substituting it into Eq.(3), we get that the kinetic energy of a mass in motions is:
1
2
E= mV
2

(7)

The power in the wind is given by the rate of change of energy:

1 2
V dm
dE 2
P= =
dt
dt

(8)

As mass flow rate is given by:

dm Adx
=
dt
dt

(9)

and based on the definition of velocity we get

dm
=AV
dt

(10)

Hence, from Eq.(8), the power can be defined as:

1
P= AV 3
2

(11)

4. Procedures
A. Install the instruments and measurement system as shown in Figure 1.
B. Measure current intensity and voltage at different angle of incidence for two
different wind speeds.
C. The range selector switch of the multi-meter voltage must be set to position DC
V20, and the switch of the multi-meter current must be set to position DC A 200
m.
D. Illustrate the dependence of the output on the angle of incidence for both wind
speeds in a common graph.
E. Settings :
Wind turbine principle: Uplift
Number of blades: 3
Blade shape: level
Angle of incidence: 0-90 in increments of 15
Wind speed: 7 m/s and 10 m/s
Load resistance: 50
F. Equipment setup

Fig.1 Experimental equipment set-up diagram

Caution:
A. The components must only be operated with the specified voltage.
B.1 If the main cable is damaged, it must only be replaced by an expert professional.
B.2 while disconnecting the main cable, grab the connector and never grab the cable.
B.3 heavy objects should not be placed onto the mains cable.
B.4 mains cable should not be bend to too narrow radius or around sharp corners.
B.5 The ambient temperature (room temperature) must not fall below and/or exceed 10

and/or 40 during operation.

B.6 The system is designed to be used in dry and clean rooms.
B.7 In the case of condensate water formation, the system should be left over for
acclimatization time of up to 5 hours.
C. Operating the system outdoors and/or in moist rooms is inadmissible. Protect the
system against moisture, splashing water, and the effects of heat. The system must not be
used in connection with easily inflammable and combustive liquids, gases, or dusts.
D. The modules must only be commissioned under the supervision and instruction of a
competent instructor. In schools or training facilities, system operation must be monitored
responsibly by trained skilled personnel.
E. In commercial facilities, the accident prevention regulations of the Association of
Commercial Trade Associations for Electrical Systems and Equipment must be observed.
If a module must be repaired, only genuine spare parts must be used. The use of any spare
parts which do not meet standards may result in serious material and personal damage!
5. Discussion
A. What is the ideal angle of incidence in each case for a wind speed of 7m/s and
10m/s?
B. What is the connection between wind speed and angle of incidence do you
assume?
C. Consider whether a wind turbine with stationary rotor blade positions can work
ideally or not. Explain with valid reasons?
D. Please infer which technical requirements state-of-the-art wind turbines should be

considered for the operation.