How do turbines operate?
Wind turbines are sophisticated machines with computer controls. A typical operating sequence is as follows: When the wind speed reaches the cut-in speed of the turbine (usually around 10 mph), the turbine blades will spin up to operating speed, usually around 14 to 29 rpm (varies by turbine model), and start generating electricity. As the wind speed increases, the generator output increases. When the wind speed increases to the rated wind speed (usually around 30 to 35 mph), the generator will output its nameplate-rated capacity (i.e. a 750-kW turbine would now output 750 kW). As the wind speed continues to increase, the generator output will remain at the rated capacity (i.e. 750 kW) until the wind reaches the cut-out speed (usually around 55 to 65 mph). At this wind speed, the turbine will deploy its tip-brakes and then apply its disk brake, stopping the blades in a few revolutions. It will then rotate itself 90 degrees out of the wind and park itself. If the wind speed drops to a l
