- Sonnenenergie
- Windenergie
- Treibstoff aus Sonnenenergie
Interactive exhibit
Photo: Nicola Pitaro
WHILE THE WIND BLOWS
There are many types of wind turbines. Find out what role the rotation axes – horizontal or vertical – and the shape and angle of the rotor blades play in power generation.
- Select rotors and mount them on the towers.
- Select the wind speed using one of the three blue buttons. Watch what happens: are the rotors turning? Which shapes work best with which axis of rotation?
- Look at the displays: are the rotors turning? How fast?
- What happens when you change the wind speed, shape or
- angle of the rotors? Try it out!
- Put the rotors back when you’re done.
EXPLANATION: IT WILL BLOW YOU AWAY…
Not every wind turbine is suitable for every location. The familiar turbines with a horizontal axis generate a lot of electricity and are therefore often used in large wind farms. When wind directions change, they align themselves so that they are optimally positioned in the wind.
Turbines with a vertical axis operate independently of the wind direction. They are suitable for use in windy locations in industrial areas, where the electricity generated can be produced and used directly on site. As these areas are already zoned, this can positively influence public acceptance.
Most wind turbines start to rotate at wind speeds of approx. 11 km/h and must be shut down at speeds above approx. 100 km/h to prevent damage.