Introduction of Wind Power - Wind Systems, Power of Wind, Betz Impulse Theory
11 Enrollments Level : IntermediateRelevance
Wind power is one of the most prominent renewable energy sources, offering a sustainable solution to the world’s increasing energy demands. Understanding the principles governing wind formation, global and local wind systems, and the mechanisms by which wind energy is converted into usable power is crucial for advancing wind energy technologies. This building block explores the fundamental aspects of wind systems, including global wind circulation patterns, the power potential in wind, and the theoretical limits of energy extraction from wind turbines. Betz’s Impulse Theory provides key insights into the efficiency constraints of wind turbines, helping optimize energy conversion processes.
Abstract
This building block provides an overview of wind power, its formation, and the physics governing its movement and energy potential. The discussion begins with the basics of atmospheric circulation, detailing global wind systems, including the Hadley, Ferrel, and Polar cells, as well as local wind systems like sea-land and mountain-valley circulations. The kinetic energy of wind and its potential for electricity generation is analysed using mathematical models. The theoretical limit of wind power extraction, known as Betz’s Law, is discussed, highlighting that no wind turbine can capture more than 59.3% of the wind’s kinetic energy. The building block also explores impulse theory’s application in calculating forces on turbine blades. Understanding these principles is essential for designing efficient wind energy systems and maximizing renewable energy utilization.
Learning Outcomes
1. Understand the principles governing wind formation and movement.
2. Identify and describe the major global and local wind systems.
3. Calculate the power available in wind using fundamental equations.
4. Analyse wind turbine efficiency and the factors affecting energy conversion.
5. Apply impulse theory to wind turbine force calculations.
6. Assess the role of wind energy in meeting global energy demands.
Prior Knowledge
1. Basic Physics.
2. Fundamental concepts of energy and power.
3. Basic calculus and algebra for equation derivations.
4. Renewable energy sources and their applications.
Keywords
- WindPower
- BetzLaw
- RenewableEnergy
- GlobalWindSystems
- ImpulseTheory
- TurbineEfficiency
- KineticEnergy
- P4ELECS
- WindEnergy
Elements
1. About this Building Block
Descriptor
Description of the Building Block.
2. Video and knowledge clips
Interactive Lecture Video
This is an interactive lecture video that combines spoken explanations with presentation slides to deliver the core content. Throughout the video, learners will encounter embedded self-assessment questions designed to check understanding of key concepts. These interactive elements make the video more engaging and help reinforce learning through immediate feedback.
Link to access the interactive lecture video:
https://ilu.th-koeln.de/goto.php?target=crs_499331&client_id=thkilu
3. Reader
Reader
This is the readable paper or comprehensive textual content of the lecture.
4. Podcasts
Podcast
An audio conversation designed to make learning engaging through informal discussion and interesting facts. It supports experimental learning and supplements the core material.
Link:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/4keZOqSxKqvU3BHzrspBvq?si=FJxFy-WnRHWeavhQgas6Yg
5. Presentations
PPT
The presentation slides used during the lecture video. These provide visual summaries and key points but do not contain the full explanation.
6. New References
References
The academic and scientific sources used to build the content of the reader and other elements.