Source - Wikipedia
The windmill is a device that converts the kinetic energy of the wind into mechanical energy that can be used for various purposes, such as grinding grains, pumping water, or generating electricity. Windmills have been used for centuries and are an important source of power in many parts of the world, including Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
The earliest windmills were likely developed in Persia (modern-day Iran) around 500 AD. These early windmills were vertical-axis windmills and were used to grind grains and pump water. The design of the windmill was further developed in Europe during the Middle Ages, and the horizontal-axis windmill became the most common type of windmill used in Europe.
Principle of Windmill
The basic principle of a windmill is simple: the wind turns the blades of the windmill, which are connected to a shaft that drives a mechanical device such as a millstone or a pump. The blades of the windmill are designed to capture the kinetic energy of the wind and convert it into rotational energy. The rotation of the blades is transferred to the shaft, which can be connected to various types of machinery depending on the intended use of the windmill.
(Source - Electrical Academia)
In the 800s, windmills were commonly used for grinding grains. The basic design of a grain-grinding windmill consists of a wooden tower, a set of sails, and a grinding mechanism. The tower of the windmill was typically constructed of wood and was between 20 and 30 feet tall. The sails were made of cloth or canvas and were attached to a rotating shaft at the top of the tower.
As the wind blew, the sails of the windmill would turn, rotating the shaft and transferring the energy to the grinding mechanism. The grinding mechanism consisted of two large circular stones, one fixed in place and the other rotating. The grains were poured into a hole in the center of the top stone, and the rotation of the bottom stone would grind the grains into flour or meal. The flour or meal would then be collected in a trough or container below the grinding stones.
In addition to grinding grains, windmills were also used to pump water. The basic design of a water-pumping windmill is similar to that of a grain-grinding windmill, with the addition of a pump mechanism. The pump mechanism consisted of a series of gears and levers that would lift water from a well or other water source and pump it to a storage tank or trough. The water-pumping windmill was an important technology for agriculture and irrigation, especially in areas where water was scarce.
Properties of Windmill
· Wind resource - The first and most important factor to consider is the wind resource at the site. A windmill needs a consistent and strong wind resource to generate power. The wind resource is typically measured in terms of wind speed and direction. A wind speed of at least 6 meters per second is generally required for a windmill to be effective.
· Site selection - Once the wind resource has been assessed, the site for the windmill must be selected. The site should be free from obstructions that could block the wind, such as buildings, trees, or other structures. The windmill should be located in an area where the wind resource is consistent and strong.
(Source - ResearchGate)
· Wind turbine selection - The type of wind turbine selected will depend on the wind resource and the intended use of the windmill. Horizontal-axis wind turbines are the most common type of wind turbine used for electricity generation, while vertical-axis wind turbines are often used for pumping water or grinding grains. The size and capacity of the wind turbine will also depend on the intended use of the windmill.
· Foundation design - The windmill must be securely anchored to the ground to prevent it from toppling over in strong winds. The foundation design will depend on the size and weight of the windmill, as well as the soil conditions at the site.
· Electrical infrastructure - If the windmill is being used for electricity generation, electrical infrastructure must be installed to connect the wind turbine to the electrical grid. This may require the installation of a transformer and other electrical equipment.
· Maintenance and repair - Windmills require regular maintenance and repair to ensure that they continue to function effectively. Maintenance and repair should be factored into the design and construction of the windmill, including the provision of access roads, service platforms, and other infrastructure.
· Environmental impact - The construction and operation of windmills can impact the environment, including the visual impact of the windmill and the impact on wildlife. These factors should be considered when selecting the site and designing the windmill to minimize any negative impact.
Written by - Narayanamanikandan B
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