The wind turbine generator
A key component of the domestic wind turbine, the generator is what produces electricity. The choice of generator is therefore crucial, as it determines future electricity production.
Presentation of the wind turbine generator
The generator of a domestic wind turbine is an alternator. That is, it produces alternating electric current.
Good to know: a dynamo, which produces direct current, can also be used as a generator. But this solution is not favored, as transporting direct current involves significant losses.
Operation of the generator:
The generator operates by putting a magnetic field, created by magnets, into motion. This movement is created by the rotation of the blades.
Thus, the stronger the magnetic field and the faster the movement, the more electricity will be produced.
Generator placement:
There are 2 placements depending on the type of wind turbine:
- For a vertical wind turbine, the generator is most often located at the bottom of the tower.
- For a horizontal wind turbine, it is generally installed at the top of the mast, directly behind the blades.
The alternating current must then be converted into direct current before the batteries with a regulator with an integrated rectifier. It will be converted back into alternating current from the batteries by an inverter to be used in the house.
