Commercial wind turbines are designed to withstand very high wind speeds without sustaining damage. The "speed" of a wind turbine can refer to several things, but when discussing its resilience to extreme weather, the relevant measure is the survival speed.
The survival speed is the maximum wind speed a wind turbine is engineered to endure without suffering structural failure or damage. When wind speeds reach this level, turbines are typically shut down safely by pitching the blades out of the wind and applying brakes.
Wind Turbine Survival Speeds
Based on available data, the survival speed for commercial wind turbines varies depending on the model and design.
Here are the typical survival speed ranges:
- General Range: From 40 m/s (144 km/h, 89 MPH) to 72 m/s (259 km/h, 161 MPH).
- Typical Speed: Around 60 m/s (216 km/h, 134 MPH).
- High-End Capability: Some robust turbines can survive speeds up to 80 metres per second (290 km/h; 180 mph).
This data highlights the significant engineering required to build turbines capable of operating in diverse and sometimes harsh environments.
Survival Speed Data
| Measure | Metres per Second (m/s) | Kilometers per Hour (km/h) | Miles per Hour (MPH) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Range Min | 40 | 144 | 89 |
| General Range Max | 72 | 259 | 161 |
| Typical | 60 | 216 | 134 |
| High-End | 80 | 290 | 180 |
Note: These figures represent the maximum wind speed a stationary, non-operating turbine can withstand.
Understanding the survival speed is crucial for turbine siting, design, and ensuring grid reliability during extreme weather events.
