Site Selection

Site selection is very important for both effective performance and safe operation of your wind turbine. Because wind power is a cube function of the wind speed, a 10% increase in wind speed will result in approximately a 37% increase in the wind power available from the wind and a similar increase in turbine performance. For example, wind energy at a wind speed of 5 m/s is twice as much as wind energy at a wind speed of 4 m/s. And it is always true that as the tower gets higher off the ground, the wind speed grows stronger.  As a rule of thumb, therefore, your wind turbine will get a better performance as the tower erects higher.

In order to ensure the normal operation of your wind turbine, please refer to the following rules:

1.    The wind turbine will generate greater energy power at a higher wind speed as the tower gets taller.

2.    The wind turbine will be severely damaged and its operational life span can be affected if it is installed in a site where there is unstable air flow or severe turbulence. Furthermore, turbulence can substantially reduce the capacity of the wind turbine to generate power. Therefore, a site with severe turbulence should not be chosen but avoided at all cost.

3.    The recommended tower height should be at least 27 feet above ground. 

Trees and various objects can block the air flows. The following data are provided for your reference:

(1)  The tower should be at least 20 feet higher than the highest obstacle.

(2)  The tower should be at least twice as high as surrounding obstructions (trees, buildings, etc.) if they must be located close together.

(3)  If there are houses or trees in the surrounding area, a good rule of thumb is to choose a tower site that is at least 15 feet away from any obstructions. Note: A shorter distance requires less wire as well as reduces the amount of power “lost” in the wires and voltage drop through the wire.

IV. Hardware Selection

Because the height of the tower, i.e., the length of the pipe or tubing depends on the height of any surrounding obstacles and the distance between the tower and the obstacles, and also because the tubing or pipes are heavy yet readily available through most fence suppliers or plumbing companies, it makes more sense to purchase locally. ARI-450 and ARI-600 wind turbines are designed to be mounted on a 2.5 inch inner diameter and 2.97 inch outside diameter pipe. Before setting up your tower, purchase from your local store tubing or pipes with a 2.5 inch inner diameter and a 2.97 inch outside diameter.