Wind Turbines - Product Range
Our VAWTs were developed as a result of the classical Australian vane turbines falling over when subjected to a whirly gig – mini tornado, which caused the vanes to rotate at high speed and when the wind had passed the vanes had so much momentum they sucked themselves over, always falling face down. The VAWTs self stall at high wind speeds and have survived cyclonic wind speeds of 55m/sec.
These vertical axis wind turbines incorporate the latest in turbine technology, and now that we are manufacturing them in the UK we can offer unparalleled service and prices. The design life of these wind turbines is 25 years. Alvesta Ltd offers a full warranty for 10 years provided that the customer takes out a maintenance contract to annually service the turbine. The VAWTs have only one moving part so the annual maintenance contract is not an expensive option.
We can supply VAWTs with either three or six blades and on sites with low or marginal wind speed we would always recommend the six blade option as it generates more power with its larger blade area. On better wind sites the three blade option is usually sufficient but it is easily up-rated to six blades should circumstances and experience suggest that this is the best option.
You can choose between a lattice tower similar to the photograph above in heights from 6m to 18m or a more traditional single mast as an alternative in sizes from 6 metres to 12 metres. The latter is the more expensive choice and requires more substantial foundations. The lattice tower can be installed with earth footings whereas the single mast needs extensive concrete footings – the energy content of which is considerable. Towers and masts can be painted any colour within reason to suit the customer’s preference and location.
Your Alvesta salesperson will advise you as to the best size and configuration for your location based on your power requirements, the mean wind speed and the topography of the ground. They may also suggest other equipment that will help you achieve your energy objectives. Many customers opt to sell excess production back to the Grid and for this a grid tie inverter and an export meter will be required. Alvesta will supply the inverter but the export meter will have to be supplied by the power company. Alvesta can also supply battery packs for customers who prefer not to have or cannot have grid connection but want to store excess production.