Wind Power Calculation Formula

Wind Power Formula:

\[ P = 0.5 \times \rho \times A \times V^3 \]

Wind Power (P):

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1. What is the Wind Power Formula?

The wind power formula calculates the power available in the wind based on air density, swept area, and wind velocity. It's a fundamental equation in wind energy engineering and renewable energy studies.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wind power formula:

\[ P = 0.5 \times \rho \times A \times V^3 \]

Where:

\( P \) — Wind power (watts)
\( \rho \) — Air density (kg/m³)
\( A \) — Swept area (m²)
\( V \) — Wind velocity (m/s)

Explanation: The formula shows that wind power is proportional to the cube of wind velocity, making velocity the most significant factor in wind energy production.

3. Importance of Wind Power Calculation

Details: Accurate wind power calculation is essential for wind turbine design, site selection for wind farms, energy production forecasting, and renewable energy system planning.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter air density in kg/m³ (typically 1.225 at sea level), swept area in m², and wind velocity in m/s. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is wind velocity cubed in the formula?
A: Wind power is proportional to the cube of velocity because kinetic energy increases with the square of velocity, and the mass flow rate increases linearly with velocity.

Q2: What is typical air density for wind calculations?
A: Standard air density at sea level is approximately 1.225 kg/m³, but it decreases with altitude and varies with temperature and pressure.

Q3: How does swept area affect wind power?
A: Power output is directly proportional to the swept area. Doubling the rotor diameter quadruples the swept area and thus the power output.

Q4: What are realistic wind power values?
A: Power output varies greatly with wind speed. A 10 m/s wind through a 100 m² area can generate about 6,125 watts, while a 15 m/s wind can generate about 20,700 watts.

Q5: Can this formula be used for actual turbine output?
A: This calculates the theoretical power in the wind. Actual turbine output is lower due to efficiency limitations (Betz limit), mechanical losses, and other factors.