Today we continued to explore the University of Twente and learn more about sustainability. We also went to the largest wind turbine farm in Holland and learned more about how wind turbines operate.
We began our day with a lecture learning about wind turbines. I learned about two types of turbines, drag, and lift. Drag wind turbines are designed to capture lots of air to rotate. Conversely, lift turbines use airfoil shaped blades to create lift and spin the motor. The lecture also talked extensively about aeroacoustics and how different designs are being used to reduce the noise produced by the turbine. Specifically serrated edges on the turbine’s blades help break up the airflow which mitigates noise. After the lecture we had a sustainability focused tour around the University of Twente. We learned about various sustainable practices implemented such as solar panels, and water refilling stations. A very interesting sustainable practice is a large pool of water used to control the temperature in buildings. After the tour we visited the largest wind turbine farm in Holland.
At the wind turbine farm, I learned a lot about how turbines are made and the pros and cons of using them. One amazing thing is that the turbines are built using a giant crane, and the giant crane is built using smaller cranes. Another thing I learned is that wind turbines often produce too much energy, which costs the company extra money to transport. Wind turbines are sustainable in many ways. Instead of using fossil fuels they use the energy from the wind to create electricity. The more natural energy is used the less competition for resources there will be. For example, if each region had their own natural energy production it would be less enticing to invade other countries to get their fossil fuels. This is sustainable in a way I never thought about as it reduces the incentives for wars. Lastly, we visited Elburg for a tour and dinner. During the tour we learned about the rich history of Elburg and after we enjoyed a nice dinner in the town.
