Description
The Computer Controlled Wind Energy Unit (“EEEC”) is a laboratory-scale system designed to study the conversion of kinetic wind energy into electrical energy and the factors influencing this generation.
The unit consists of a stainless steel tunnel, an aerogenerator, and an axial fan with variable speed (computer controlled). The core components of the aerogenerator include a rotor (or turbine) that can accommodate up to four blades, and a generator.
The fan’s rotational speed is adjustable to control the airflow, which in turn sets the rotor of the wind energy unit into motion. The generator then converts the rotor’s kinetic energy into electrical energy.
The aerogenerator’s incidence angle and each blade’s angle can be adjusted. The blades are removable, allowing for different configurations.
This unit also includes:
- A DC Load Regulator
- An auxiliary battery charger
- A battery
- A DC Loads module, which contains DC lamps, a rheostat, a DC motor, a load selector, and switches to choose the load type.
Key parameters measured by the system include air temperature, air speed, rotor speed, voltage, and current. A temperature sensor is placed before the aerogenerator’s rotor, while air speed is measured with a sensor in the tunnel. The rotor’s rotational speed (RPM) is also monitored, and voltage and current sensors measure the output to determine power.
Real-time monitoring provides the DC voltage and current from the aerogenerator, both before and after the regulator. Additionally, the system measures the thrust force on the wind turbine in the direction of the wind, as well as the mechanical torque during operation.
The Computer Controlled Wind Energy Unit (“EEEC”) is equipped with the EDIBON Computer Control System (SCADA), which includes:
- The unit itself
- A Control Interface Box
- A Data Acquisition Board
- Computer Control, Data Acquisition, and Data Management Software Packages for controlling and monitoring all parameters in the process.
This setup allows for a comprehensive study of wind energy conversion and turbine performance.
