Question

Explain the major pros and cons of mechanical power conditioning used by large scale wind turbines and the electrical conditioning used by smaller turbines ?

Answer 1

We know wind energy is the renewable energy source which comes from the wind in the open areas.
The large diameter wind turbines are placed in hilly areas which are being rotated by the high speed winds. These turbine blades rotates and make the flywheel also rotate which are then connected to gear box. Hence the gear box which is connected to generator will generate electricity which is called as wind power.

The power conditioning is nothinh but controlling the voltage generated by the turbines.

The mechanical power conditioning includes a mechanical voltage regulator which is shown below.

The magnet is connected to a mechanical power switch, which opens as the magnet moves into the field. As voltage decreases, the current also decreases, releasing spring tension or the weight of the core and causing it to retract. This closes the switch and allows the power to flow once more.

Pros:

1. It is highly sensitive to the small voltage fluctuations.
2. The relay is active all the time.
3. By the use of capacitor the losses are reduced.
4. These regulators are easy to troubleshoot.
5. They are inexpensive.

Cons:

1. The voltage and current limits are extremely hard to fix due to spring pressures.
2. If there is an error in the limits of voltage then entire set up is need to be changed.
3. These regulators frequently results in damage.

Electrical conditioning used by smaller turbines include the electric voltage regulators.

The cons of mechanical voltage regulators are overcomed by use of electric voltage regulators where we use high speed switches in place of a mechanical switch. (transistorized regulator)

Pros:

1. Speed of operation is increased.
2. Low or No maintanance.
3. As they are electronic devices, they have less voltage losses.
4. less noise
5.Simple design

Cons:

1. Due to incorrect connection damages are huge.
2. Zener diode used is costly.
3.Additional equipment called heat sink is required.
4. Low efficiency