REP Wind Power Technologies 2

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of a wind turbine's pitch control system?

Accepted Answer

Adjust blade angle to optimize power output and prevent overspeed

Answer

Pitch control adjusts the angle of attack of rotor blades to maximize energy capture at low winds and limit power at high winds to prevent mechanical damage.

Question 2

Which wind turbine configuration places the rotor downwind of the tower?

Accepted Answer

Downwind turbine

Answer

Downwind turbines position the rotor on the lee side of the tower, allowing the rotor to self-align with the wind but experiencing tower shadow effects.

Question 3

What does the term 'wake effect' refer to in a wind farm context?

Accepted Answer

Reduced wind speed and increased turbulence downstream of a turbine

Answer

The wake effect describes the turbulent, lower-velocity airflow that exists behind an operating turbine, which reduces energy output of downwind turbines.

Question 4

A wind turbine rated at 2 MW with a capacity factor of 35% would produce approximately how many MWh annually?

Accepted Answer

6,132 MWh

Answer

Annual production = 2 MW × 8,760 hours/year × 0.35 capacity factor = 6,132 MWh.

Question 5

What is the function of a nacelle in a horizontal-axis wind turbine?

Accepted Answer

Houses the gearbox, generator, and drive train components

Answer

The nacelle is the enclosure mounted atop the tower that contains the mechanical and electrical components including the gearbox, generator, and control systems.

(REP) Certified Renewable Energy Professional Practice Test

(REP) Certified Renewable Energy Professional Practice Test

REP Wind Power Technologies 2