Windstar turbine

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Array in Palm Springs

The Windstar Darrieus-based vertical-axis turbine is a lift-type device with straight, extruded aluminum blades attached at each end to a central rotating shaft and are operated as Linear Array Vortex Turbine Systems (LAVTS). Vertical-axis rotors each with their own 50-75kW generator are placed in three to any number of rotors in linear arrays with each rotor’s blades passing within two feet of its neighbor. In this configuration, the center rotors gain an increase in output and efficiency (reaching the 50% plus efficiencies of HAWTs). Each rotor unit has a dual braking system of pneumatic disc brakes and blade pitch.

[edit] History

In 2001 and 2002 three guyed versions of the Windstar 530 based on the 480/530/1066 prototypes where installed in Palm springs each separated by 20 inches. The close spacing of the turbines produces a "vortex/wall" effect that increases output of the interior turbines by 75% in 16mph wind with diminishing improvement until there is no effect above 42mph. The guy wires produced problems for turbine bearings. A key lesson from the guyed turbines is to use a superstructure to hold the top bearing in place and reduce downward thrust and weight.

The 1500 and 3000 turbine models build on the principles and designs of past Windstar turbines. Both new models stand 50 feet high with a 40 foot tall rotor and 50-75 kW generators. The Windstar 1500 is 37.5 feet wide and is designed for higher wind speed locations. The Windstar 3000 will be 75 feet wide to operate better in lower windspeed locations (14-16 mph). They utilize off-the-shelf generators, gearboxes, bearings and other components. They use extrude aluminum blades.