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Winds having following speed are suitable to operate wind turbines.
5−25 m/s
10−35 m/s
20−45 m/s
30−55 m/s
5−25 m/s
Quick Summary: Wind turbines are designed to operate efficiently within a specific wind speed range, typically defined by cut-in, rated, and cut-out speeds. The range of 5–25 m/s covers the operational window for most utility-scale wind turbines, ensuring kinetic energy extraction while avoiding damage at extreme speeds.
Wind turbines are designed to operate efficiently within a specific wind speed range, typically defined by cut-in, rated, and cut-out speeds. The range of 5–25 m/s covers the operational window for most utility-scale wind turbines, ensuring kinetic energy extraction while avoiding damage at extreme speeds.
P=21ρAv3Cp — Power extracted from wind
Cp=PwindPturbine — Power coefficient
The wind turbine extracts kinetic energy from the wind using the blades to generate torque. The mechanical power produced is given by P=21ρAv3Cp. Below the cut-in speed, there is insufficient torque to overcome inertia. Above the cut-out speed (typically 25 m/s), the turbine is locked or feathered to prevent structural failure due to excessive aerodynamic loads.
Cut-in speed: The minimum speed required to start electricity generation (usually 3–5 m/s).
Rated speed: The speed at which the turbine reaches its maximum rated output power.
Cut-out speed: The speed at which the turbine is shut down to prevent mechanical damage (typically 25 m/s).
Power is proportional to the cube of the wind speed (v3).
Sustainable and renewable energy source.
Low operational and maintenance costs after installation.
Intermittent nature of wind resource.
Noise pollution and visual impact on landscape.
Grid-connected wind farms.
Off-grid power systems for remote areas.
Most commercial wind turbines operate between 3 m/s and 25 m/s.
Option B, C, and D suggest higher minimum speeds (10, 20, 30 m/s), which would result in poor capacity factors as wind rarely remains at such high speeds consistently.
A is correct — The standard operational speed range for utility-scale wind turbines is approximately 5–25 m/s.
Remember that power is proportional to v3; even a small increase in wind speed results in a massive increase in power output until the rated capacity is hit.