Windmill Construction

The Basic Parts of a Windmill

Windmills are a great way to save money on your electricity bill and to do your part in saving the environment.  There are several ways to go about getting one for yourself.  Basic windmill construction could be done by yourself, or you could go about hiring a professional to do it for you, or some combination of the two. 

Before choosing any of these options, it is essential that you know the basic parts of a windmill. 

This article will help familiarize you with the basic windmill components, so you will know what you are doing whether you are undertaking windmill construction by yourself or simply conversing with a professional.  Take some time to study the list below. 

CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE WINDMILL CONSTRUCTION PLANS

Anemometer: This device will tell you how fast your blades are spinning, letting you determine how much electricity you are producing.  More high-tech windmills will even have regulation devices to save your windmill from damage in high-speed winds and severe weather. 

Blades: The blades work somewhat like the propeller of an airplane or helicopter.  They have a special shape that makes them spin when the wind blows across them.  Most windmills have two or more blades. 

Brakes: Not all windmills have brakes, but if you live in an area where there are frequently winds that could be damaging, brakes are very important. 

Controller: If your windmill has brakes, the computer system, or controller, will be responsible for determining when to use them.  Winds that exceed 55 miles per hour can damage your windmill, costing you in repairs.  A controller will prevent your blades from turning at dangerous speeds.  If you live in an area with tornadoes or hurricanes, a controller may be right for you. 

Gearbox: The gearbox is responsible for transferring energy from the blades to the generator.  Since there are so many moving parts associated with the gearbox, it is best if you can avoid using a windmill that requires one.  However, if you have a larger windmill, this may not be possible.  Do some research on the windmill you are considering to see if it requires a gearbox. 

Generator: The generator typically uses electromagnetic resistance to generate electrical energy from the rotation of the windmill's blades. 

Nacelle: If your generator is exposed, it is important to have a nacelle, which will shield it from rain and other damaging weather. 

Pitch: This word refers to the angle of the blades.  Having the right pitch is essential to making sure you are getting the most out of the wind available to you.  Do some research to determine your ideal pitch. 

Rotor: The rotor is responsible for attaching the blades to the generator shaft.  It must be very strong for windmill construction. 

Tower: It is important to have a tower that is tall enough to put the blades into the wind stream and strong enough to hold your windmill upright against powerful winds. 

Wind Vane: This part is also known as the tail, and it is responsible for keeping your windmill pointed in the right direction. 

After studying this list of parts, you should have a basic working knowledge of windmill construction, and how they work.  Though you are probably not ready yet to go out and build your own windmill, you at least have the knowledge required to be able to talk straight with the professionals.