A wind turbine is one of the sources of energy. It is a kind of machine that uses the mechanical energy of wind that is converted into electric energy.
Each part in a wind turbine has a different function and is made of different materials. First, the blade is made of fiberglass and carbon fiber. The materials are chosen for the reason of having better strength and durability than the others. A blade is used for capturing the wind. When the wind gets strong enough, it will rotate. Second, the tower is made of steel. Steel is an appropriate material that has very good strength support needed for a tower due to its functions, which are to support the wind turbine above the ground and the place of the blade. Third, the nacelle (the housing on top), which is made of steel and aluminum. A nacelle is very important to protect the main component in the wind turbine. In the nacelle, there is a wind sensor which is used to measure the wind speed and determine the wind direction. Fourth, a generator which is made of copper, steel, and magnets. The generator is going to convert the mechanical energy into electric energy. A generator can produce an 1,5 megawatts output. And the last one is a foundation which is made of reinforced concrete and steel as the anchor of the wind turbine into the ground.
The location of wind turbines will influence the strength of the energy. Basically, the location of a wind turbine can be divided into two: onshore and offshore. Onshore means that the wind turbine is built on land. The benefits of this location are low cost and easier to maintain. As a consequence, the wind is weaker, unstable, and produces less electricity. This kind of turbine is usually used as a domestic turbine, which is used to fulfill the electricity needs of households. By contrast, offshore wind turbines are located in the sea. It requires a higher cost and a lot of effort to maintain, while the captured wind will be stronger and will automatically produce more electricity anyway.
As a conclusion, a wind turbine is a highly valuable machine that can be used to provide both large-scale needs of electricity and the small one. The suitable location will help people to get the suitable electric energy.
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