A energy efficient Wind Turbine system includes sending power via cables and wires to various components. What is so important about that now?

Today we will learn about the DC (direct current) cables and Safety Disconnects in our continued exploration of a Wind energy system. I had previously described the other various components found in the system map of the wind turbine used in alternative energy projects. This article continues down the system to the cables and wires that are required for the delivery of power for a alternative energy system.

Wire size is very important in joining the components of the wind turbine system. Allowances must be recognized along with knowing the limitations of all the components. Conducting current from the wind turbine requires a connection with DC wires since the output from the rectifier is DC (direct current).

DC is characterized with it’s low energy loss and ease of transmission over long distances and is favored for efficient delivery of electrical energy. Electrical code restrictions are based on the heat generation within the wire and a limit based on voltage drop over the length of the wire are both affected due to resistance.

Wires have resistance, the longer the wire run, the greater the resistance. This means that for longer wire runs you will need to use a larger wire to compensate. This occurrence is often referred to as "voltage drop". On longer wire runs, plan on using a larger size wire. There are specific voltage drop calculations that will depend on the wire size used, the length of the wire, the load applied, and the voltage in use. Refer to your National Electric Code and recommended certified Electrician.

The wind turbine installation manual will include charts that make recommendations for distance and size in both US and metric measurements. Calculating other wire runs, the current that the device will use should be multiplied by 1.25 to prevent the wire from handling more than 80% of its rated capacity and will allow for limited load growth. ( i.e., a 20A load must have an ampacity rating of 25A).

Use of the information gathered during a load analysis has provided the information in choosing or ‘mapping’ your wind system. Correct wire sizing for the wind turbine electrical output must be able to be met by the DC cables without worrying about damage, safety or deterioration.

Load growth refers to making provisions for allowing the homeowner to add more loads to the system without running more wire. It is recommended to keep this in mind during the design of your system.

A Safety Disconnect refers to a switch in the inverter that automatically disconnects power from your residence to the power grid to ensure the safety of repairmen working on a line they are assuming is “dead”. Ensure that your designer provides all information and actions to undertake in the event of such an occurrence. I would prefer not to be the cause of death for another person.

Lightening is a danger that can cause damage to the wind turbine and be the cause of high current damaging the whole system. Grounding can consist of a heavy duty conductor which runs from the top of the tower to a ‘grounding’ rod or buried galvanized plate. Lightening arrestors absorb voltage spikes on the wiring to protect sensitive equipment. Refer to a qualified electrician for further in-depth details.

I hope that I have managed to introduce and learn further about the inner parts and systems of a Wind Turbine system and hopefully provide detail yet kept it concise. Unfortunately, we will probably need to read regularly to envision the system as a whole. Read related –> here and there. 

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