Tip Speed Ratio of Wind Turbine

Below explanation is got from a forum:

The Tip Speed Ratio is a function of the airfoil used on the rotor blades. It can't be "improved", as such. High TSR rotors typically spin at high speed and have no torque to speak of. Low TSR rotors don't spin as fast and have more torque. Low TSR rotors are better for low winds, high TSR rotors perform best in high winds. The generator can be designed for either type.Vertical axis turbines usually run at very low TSR (2 or less), the typical range for horizontal axis machines is 4-8.

http://www.thebackshed.com/windmill/articles/DonBrown1.asp

Useful Link for Wind Power

Just went through two website talking about wind power, seems like very interesting for wind power fans.

http://www.integener.com

http://www.fieldlines.com

enjoy!!

Biggest Vertical Axis Wind Turbine in the world

Vertical-axis wind turbine in Cap-Chat, Quebec