Wind turbines turning in no wind?

In summary, the speaker saw a field with 20 wind turbines while returning from a holiday. They noticed that the turbines were turning despite there being no wind. They wondered if there was an explanation for this, such as the turbines storing kinetic energy or having an electrical source. It is explained that there is more wind at the height of the turbines, as seen in the wind gradient.
  • #1
Kuzey Cem
4
0
So last week I was returning from a holiday (by car) and on the way I saw a field with about 20 wind turbines on it. They were slowly turning, as usual. At first it seemed normal but I suddenly realized, by the open window of the car, that there was no wind at all. So I wondered if there was an explanation for this? Maybe the wind turbines "store" some of the kinetic energy and use it for when there is no wind? Or maybe they have some sort of electrical source that keeps them going?
Thanks for your help.
 
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  • #2

What causes wind turbines to turn when there is no wind?

Wind turbines are designed with a special feature called a "yaw system" that allows the turbine to turn to face the direction of the wind. This feature is powered by a small motor that can move the turbine blades even when there is no wind. Additionally, wind turbines are often placed on high elevations where there is a constant, steady wind flow even when there may not be wind at ground level.

Do wind turbines produce energy when there is no wind?

It is not possible for wind turbines to produce energy without wind. While the yaw system may allow the turbine blades to move, they must be turned by the force of the wind in order to generate electricity. Therefore, if there is no wind, the turbine will not produce energy.

Why are wind turbines sometimes seen turning in no wind?

As mentioned earlier, wind turbines are often placed on high elevations where there is a constant wind flow. Therefore, even if there is no wind at ground level, there may still be enough wind at the turbine's height to turn the blades. Additionally, the yaw system may also be activated periodically for maintenance or testing purposes, causing the blades to turn even in no wind.

Can wind turbines be damaged by turning in no wind?

No, wind turbines are designed to be able to turn in both low and high wind speeds without being damaged. The yaw system is specifically designed to withstand the weight and force of the blades even when there is no wind present.

Is it normal for wind turbines to turn in no wind?

Yes, it is normal for wind turbines to turn in no wind. As mentioned earlier, wind turbines are often placed in areas with a constant, steady wind flow. Additionally, the yaw system may also be activated periodically for maintenance or testing purposes, causing the blades to turn even in no wind. This does not affect the overall efficiency or functionality of the wind turbine.

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