The
Wind Turbine Tower

Why do you need the wind turbine mast?

The wind turbine tower is an essential part of your residential wind turbine generator. It would be easier to install the wind turbine on ground level however there are good reasons to install the wind turbine on an higher level above ground. First, you want to avoid turbulent winds caused by ground level obstacles such as buildings, barns and trees. Second, the wind velocity is higher as one goes to higher altitudes and higher wind velocity translated to higher delivered electricity power.

What is the cost impact?

Like everything else, the tower comes with a price tag. The cost of the mast, including shipping and installation can approach that of the turbine and the associated inverter,

What is the required height and what are the available tower types?

Usually you will need a tower that is 60 feet (18 meters) to 80 feet (24 meters).
The two most popular types are the

• The scaffolding pole. Basically, a long strong metal pipe (mast) installed upright and supported by strong wire guys (usually a set of 4 wires from the highest point and another set of 4 wires from half height. Concrete foundation is required for the base and for the guy wires anchor points. The advantages of this type are simplicity and cost. The disadvantages are a larger periphery (real estate) is required around the mast and fencing the area is a necessary safety precaution.
• A lattice structure on a concrete foundation, It is more expensive but it is self supported (frre standing) and its footprint is smaller

Installation and maintenance

How to install a heavy turbine on the top of the tower?
How to get there for maintenance?
A common solution is to use a tilt-up tower. In this type, the concrete base is fittted with a hinge, so the mast can be taken down for maintenance and the turbine can be installed in the horizontal position before the pole is lifted up

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