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Wind assisted deep-well pumping

Conference · · ASAE Publ.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6484633
A 37-kW, vertical-axis wind turbine was successfully coupled to an existing irrigation pump by installing a combination gear drive between the pump and electric motor. The system operated as a wind-assisted system because the wind turbine reduced the load on the electric motor and saved energy. To synchronize the two power sources, an overrunning clutch was used in the mechanical drive line. This clutch was essential to the power train because it allowed the wind turbine to operate at its maximum efficiency without causing any loading on the electric motor at low windspeeds. The clutch, combination gear drive, and connecting shafting are all commonly available in irrigated areas. Results indicated that as much as 40% of the pesent energy consumed in irrigation pumping can be generated by wind power. Wind energy systems for irrigation appear best suited for limited irrigation of crops like cotton and sorghum, rather than full irrigation of crops like corn and alfalfa.
Research Organization:
Dept. of Agriculture, Bushland, TX
OSTI ID:
6484633
Report Number(s):
CONF-8009144-(Vol.2)
Conference Information:
Journal Name: ASAE Publ.; (United States) Journal Volume: 4-81
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English