Wind Power
Wind generation is hard to beat: Given sufficient wind, turbines supply free energy, not affected by shade and daylight hours – theoretically up to 8 1/2 kWh per day in case of a 350W unit.
The challenge is too much wind, whose forces could destroy a turbine. Simply shutting down, as many units require, protects the turbine. This, of course, is not attractive, because the moment there is plenty of wind, the generation stops. Unsupervised use may also not be feasible or advisable. Further challenges are noise, vibration and overly “nervous” wind-tracking, where the unit overreacts to changes in wind direction or the vessel rolling due to wave.
The challenge is too much wind, whose forces could destroy a turbine. Simply shutting down, as many units require, protects the turbine. This, of course, is not attractive, because the moment there is plenty of wind, the generation stops. Unsupervised use may also not be feasible or advisable. Further challenges are noise, vibration and overly “nervous” wind-tracking, where the unit overreacts to changes in wind direction or the vessel rolling due to wave.
This is where Superwind has the edge:
Once wind-speed exceeds the nominal speed of 25 K, the blade angle is adjusted to limit aerodynamic loads at the rotor and the resulting high forces – all while generating full power.
Once wind-speed exceeds the nominal speed of 25 K, the blade angle is adjusted to limit aerodynamic loads at the rotor and the resulting high forces – all while generating full power.
Lynx has two Superwind 350-ll turbines on the arc, producing about
- 2 kWh at 12K apparent wind
- 10 kWh at 20K
- 17 kWh at 25K
The adjustment mechanism is integrated into the hub – well protected from the elements.
It is mechanical and maintenance free – allowing months of unsupervised use in rough conditions such as for self-contained high-mountain weather stations.
The vibration dampening system ensures proper tracking even in turbulent locations and prevents unwanted oscillations due to wave action.
The wind tunnel-optimized special surface (called “sharkskin”) of the rotor blades eliminates most noise.
Acoustic decoupling built into the mast mount prevents the transmission of vibration or generator hum to the deck and below.