Posts Tagged ‘science’

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Considerations When Mounting Solar Panels

February 19th, 2010

After you purchase your solar panels, you will be faced with some decisions about their installation. How will your solar panels be mounted? What parts will you need? If you are like me, then no matter which direction you choose the system should be reliable and secure.

Solar panels are often mounted on roof tops, because the roof structure is strong and already exists. If your roof is sloped in the right direction, then how convenient this is. And convenience is a legitimate player in any decision making process.

We would like to point out a couple issues with mounting solar panels on the roof, however. They are things to keep in mind for folks who live in northern climates, or who desire more optimal performance.

The first issue is the snow. When snow builds up on your solar panels, this will drastically reduce your electricity. And if your solar panels are on the roof, then cleaning them can be a little tricky.

As machine designers, we decided to tackle this problem common for us in the mountain regions. We don’t mind the snow, but the last thing on our minds is climbing the roof in Winter. So we developed the Rotek system, a simple mechanism for mounting solar panels that will improve performance and take on the snow.

With this design, the solar panels are installed remotely rather than on the roof. This provides additional space beneath the panels which Rotek puts to use. The panels can be rotated to almost any angle with a simple move. This feature is good for making seasonal adjustments based on the Sun.

A second advantage comes in Winter when the solar panels can be rotated toward the ground, and operated at steeply sloped or negative tilt. This prevents the buildup of snow on the photovoltaic surface. It is also good for periodic glass cleaning, maintenance, or for dumping a load of snow if the panels were left up in a storm.

The solar panels can be left in negative tilt so long as there is snow on the ground. We all know how well snow reflects sunlight, so the panels will still receive their beam radiation. A simple adjustment is all it takes to restore the solar panels to their original tracking angle when desired.

A second big issue with solar panels is their operating temperature. The cooler the panels, the more we maximize their discharge current. Roof mounted solar panels acquire much more heat, and the amount of energy lost at these higher temperatures can be as high as 20%.

Remotely installed solar panels will run cooler, and the electrical output will be better for this. There is fresh air to circulate on the back end (instead of a hot roof), and they can be located closer to the ground. The Rotek system, if used, would provide this additional advantage to your solar panel system.

Sooner or later the time will come to install your solar panels. The roof installed units will make a lot of sense, but those who want improved performance and adjustability should consider other options. The Rotek system is one such option, easy to install and simple to use without the extravagant cost.

Walter Hull is a mechanical engineer with expertise in solar power systems. For a limited time you can get his free checklist to solar power from your own yard.

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Alternative Energy That Shouldn’t Be Alternative Solar Energy How Do Solar Panels Work?

February 15th, 2010

If we are serious about decreasing environmental pollution, then solar energy should be a part of the equation it isn’t a part of the problem, so it must be part of the solution. It’s recognized as an “alternative energy source”, as it isn’t widely used as a main source of power for very many people. It’s expensive to produce solar panels, and in today’s world, calculators and lawn decor are two of the most popular solar powered gadgets used by the mainstream. So, the burning question that could maybe help solve our planet’s current dilemma is, how do solar panels work? How does a panel harness the sun’s energy and turn it into electricity?

Solar panels are made from special materials that absorb the sun’s rays and turn them into electricity that can power all sorts of electronic devices. Devices that we use electricity for everyday without thinking twice about could be powered by solar panels.

In today’s world, we’re using a growing technology called photovoltaic (PV) electricity. Special materials are used to turn the sun’s energy into electricity and it can be used immediately or stored in DC batteries.

These materials have been recently developed and they release electrons when prompted by sunlight. Another name for a photovoltaic panel is a “direct energy conversion device”. All of these effects take place on an atomic level without any moving parts.

It used to be that only space age technology, like satellites and space stations, used photovoltaic panels. They were reliable for their continuous solar energy conversion, and once in outer space, the sun’s radiation is at least 50% stronger than it is on our planet.

Those living far from an electrical grid, more than a mile, are more likely to use photovoltaic technology, especially in residential homes. Power transmission cables cost way more to install than a photovoltaic power array would. If you’re a notable distance from an electrical grid, then it may be a good idea to consider solar energy for your power source.

But still, the looming question is “how do solar panels work?” Well, solar energy is made up of two kinds of radiation. One is called “beam radiation”. Beam radiation can be visualized by imagining direct sunlight on your skin while at the beach on a clear, sunny day. These cloud-free days make a major contribution to solar energy being gathered by solar panels, but the solar panels need to be strategically placed to harness the most sunshine possible.

The second kind of radiation is called “diffuse radiation”. This radiation isn’t the most desirable for solar panels because, as its name suggests, its radiation is diffused, scattered in a multitude of directions. It’s the primary radiation source on an overcast day, or if you’re relaxing under a shade tree. It isn’t very powerful and to rely solely on diffuse radiation would be impractical to say the least.

For solar panels to work efficiently, a sunny location is mandatory. Beam radiation is the most effective since it’s the strongest. Most of Western America qualifies as a good locale for beam radiation those states are good candidates for the use of solar energy, but northern climates and coastal states are usually quite cloud-laden and sadly, not worthy of 100% solar-reliance.

Solar panels can be set-up to meet your specific needs. 12 volt, 24 volt, and 48 volt DC systems are the most common. The life expectancy of 12 volt solar panels is well over 20 years and they fall in the range of 12-14% efficiency.

Solar power is still “alternative energy”, and part of that is due to its high cost to produce. They’re so expensive because they are made of supremely pure silicon semi-conductor materials. New materials are being explored and they’re geared toward lowering production costs, making solar energy more readily available to the general public. Cadmium Telluride based solar panels are one of the new technologies being explored, and if these are successful materials then solar panels should become more affordable for the average citizen. This is great news for the environment as more and more people convert to solar energy, the atmosphere can begin to heal.

Soon enough, solar energy won’t be considered “alternative” anymore. You want to consider certain things if you’re planning on converting to solar power before making a decision, but it’s a step in the right direction for the environment. The benefits outweigh the cost when it comes to our planet’s health. Energy independence has become a common goal for many, and if you want to use solar as just a back up plan, then the choice is practically already made for you. The planet will benefit immensely once solar energy is accessible to everyone.

To find out more on how solar panels work check out some more information here.

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Thermal Solar Power Systems

February 13th, 2010

There is a category of solar power designs which generate heat directly from the Sun. They are called thermal solar power systems, and are a reliable and inexpensive way to make your life more self sustainable for years to come.

Thermal solar power can be used in as many ways as you can think. Designs exist from heating up your hot water tanks, to industrial steam generation and everything in between. Many of these systems are attractive because of their low cost and simplicity.

For small scale users like ourselves, thermal solar power can be integrated into our homes. The most practical applications are for hot water and home heating, and there are a variety of designs in use. Equally as important is that thermal solar power systems are affordable and easy to use.

Pebble bed heat exchangers are another application for thermal solar power. They are like the thermodynamic equivalent of a water tank. They give us a nice reservoir with which to store and distribute excess energy.

Pebble bed heat exchangers can be used in a variety of ways. They can be wall mounted units, or embedded in the floor. They can provide the heat source for everything from a family room, to a workshop, greenhouse, or dry sauna installation. They have good aesthetic qualities, being composed of natural materials, and can be incorporated in an attractive way into any home.

The typical operating temperatures for a thermal solar power system will range from 120F to 180F. We have technologies to boost these temperatures from 200F to 350F. Industrial grade technologies can achieve temperatures in excess of 700F. Most of us with fall in the hundred degree category, but for the tinkerers, mechanics, and home enthusiasts we may want to push 300 degrees for our special applications.

The solar collector is the most important component to a thermal solar power installation. A few different types include flat plate absorbers, evacuated tube absorbers, and parabolic trough concentrators. Their main purpose is to absorb solar radiation and generate heat for the system. With a good sized solar collector system, significant heat can be generated and distributed to multiple locations.

The lifeblood of the thermal solar power design is the circulating fluid. The circulating fluid is heated in the solar collector, and then pumped to all the system users. This fluid is typically oil, glycol, or water which is matched to the system temperatures and equipment in use.

Thermal solar power is a good first step for anyone getting involved with solar energy, and especially those with good amounts of Sun. The simplicity, potential savings, and environmental benefits make them an easy decision for those retrofitting or building a new home.

Thermal power systems are typically less expensive than solar power electricity, and can create household hot water and heat reliably. With the addition of pebble bed storage and higher operating temperatures, then the amount of potential uses suddenly becomes many. With the markets of sustainability re-growing their roots we expect to see a variety of new designs and installations in years to come.

Walter Hull is a mechanical engineer with expertise in solar energy power systems. For a short time you can get his free guide to solar energy from your own land.

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Is Solar Energy Right For You?

February 11th, 2010

Chances are, you are already using solar energy in a variety of forms. It is the primary fuel source in the creation of food, fresh water, petroleum, and wood. The question we propose is “why use solar energy to power your homes”? Is it realistic for generating useful heat and electricity?

The answer is that solar energy is reliable and free. From the early morning dawn to the late evening set, the Sun will shine each and every day. Solar energy may be the single most consistent thing there is on our planet.

Last we checked the government can’t tax it, and there is no pollution or greenhouse effect. And solar energy needs no refinement, it’s ready to go. Like a gift from heaven, perhaps nothing more perfect than pure solar energy.

Yes, it is true that solar energy systems are not the most efficient. But you will be using the lowest costing and most reliable fuel source on the planet. No monthly charges, and no swings in the markets. And most important for some us, we are covered when there are power outages, emergencies, and large storms.

The difficulties in using solar energy are with selecting the right application and the right equipment. How much does a solar energy system cost and how difficult is it to integrate? How simple or elaborate should it be? In my location, is solar energy right for me? Here we present a few straight forward answers to help your case.

If you have a sunny climate with lots of solar energy, then put it to use. You will save money in the long run, and living in an environmentally friendly way. We would estimate that at least 50% of the United States could be using solar energy in some way.

The more rainy and foggy your climate tends to be, and the more north you go, then the more difficult the prospects for using solar energy. A little more calculation and investigation may be needed.

When it comes to making heat and hot water with solar energy – absolutely. We call this passive solar heating. These are low cost systems that can be designed directly into your business or home. The designs for passive solar heating systems can be relatively simple and inexpensive.

Another popular form of solar energy is Photovoltaic (PV) electricity. These semi-conductor panels will convert solar radiation into useful electricity. It is true that there is a significant manufacturing investment in making PV panels, and they can cost some money. So the decision to make PV electricity should be more carefully considered.

The more efficiently you use electricity, then the more Photovoltaic energy is right for you. PV systems can involve significant up front costs, but they will pay themselves off over the long run. This time period for payoff depends on your Utility’s electrical rate, and the amount of electricity you plan to use. In certain States experiencing high electrical rates, such as California (which has a lot of Sun), absolutely a solar energy system could be right for you.

If you are far away from the electrical grid and building a new home, then solar power is easy to justify. You can save money by avoiding expensive transmission cables routed to your property.

Emergency reserve energy systems are another potential benefit with solar energy. A person could charge a large bank of batteries and keep them on standby. When it comes to emergency reserve energy, for some of us the cost is no element. We just want to be covered in times of natural disaster.

We should and could be making great strides in cutting greenhouse emissions and capturing energy from the Sun. If it’s there then let’s use it. Whether for heating your house, your hot water, or making electricity, solar energy solutions can be both a money saving and environmentally friendly path toward energy independence.

Walter Hull is a mechanical engineer with expertise in solar energy power systems. For a short time you can get his free checklist to solar energy from your own land.

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How Electricity Is Produced From Wind Energy

February 8th, 2010

Wind energy has been used for many years as individuals have used wind power for sailing, wind mills for manufacturing and pumping water and more recently conversion into electricity using wind turbines. Wind power is a renewable energy that is considered a good option instead of burning fossil fuels. Of all the renewable energy sources it is the most efficient and you only need a light breeze to produce electricity.

The very first uses of wind for energy was in the form of wind mills and sailing as people have been using wind for more than thousands of years to propel ships. Windmills have also been used for many years for milling grain as well as pumping water for irrigation. These irrigation windmills was the main reason that farming and ranching could occur in the US, as there are vast stretches of land that do not have ready access to water.

The very first usage of wind to create electricity occurred in 1888. The first wind turbine was used to create hydrogen in the 1890s but it was soon converted to producing electricity. Small wind turbines are used to provide power to rural buildings and today there are larger wind farms that are being used to produce electricity for large networks. What is known as the modern wind industry really began in 1979 when wind turbines began to be regularly produced.

Wind occurs because the surface of the earth is not evenly heated, as the poles get less sunlight than the equator. This causes cooled and heated air to move which in turn produces wind. It is projected that the amount of power that could be harnessed form the wind is more than the human population currently uses. So just think about having almost cost free power.

The amount of power that is generated by the wind is dependent on the speed and as the wind speed doubles the amount of power produced increases eight fold. However there is a cap as wind turbines can only go so fast and generate so much energy. You do not need high winds at all time though as a lot of energy can still be produced with 15 mph breezes. As such, wind power is a valuable method for alternative energy.

The main issue with wind energy is storage as wind power cannot be dispatched at different times but needs to be used immediately. Many companies have looked into different types of batteries, storing it within the energy grid and even hydroelectricity. Many times surplus energy from domestic wind turbines are fed back into the electrical grid and the energy company will purchase this energy and you will receive electricity credits.

A wind turbine used to collect the power of wind will contain a rotor shaft, gearbox and brake assembly. Generally within a wind farm the different turbines are interconnecting for power collection and communication networking. Wind energy uses induction generators to collect the power and change it to electricity.

The best types of generators are doubly fed machines as they will function when errors occur within the grid. You need to be aware of the power factor, dynamic behavior and frequency constancy when a system fault should occur.

Wind power should be thoroughly considered in order to promote a greener society. Educate your children to become future scientists by purchasing them science lab equipment.

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Power From The Sun – Free Solar Energy

January 31st, 2010

The Sun can be thought of as a giant nuclear furnace stationed in the sky. It is a tremendous source of solar energy, cranking out massive amounts of radiation each and every day.

This solar energy arrives to Earth as electromagnetic radiation, where it is absorbed and utilized in the biosphere in numerous ways. The Sun and solar energy it emits is arguably the most essential element to our existence.

This electromagnetic radiation, also referred to as light waves, includes an entire spectrum of different wavelengths. X-rays are some of the shortest light waves, where as radio waves are some of the longest. Solar energy falls in between, composed mostly of infrared waves, waves (colors) visible to the human eye, and ultraviolet waves. Life on Earth has heavily adapted toward these wavelengths that we receive.

The Sun emits solar energy in the range of infrared, visible light, and ultra-violet wave lengths. Thank goodness for this, because if the Sun emitted solar energy as X-rays or Gamma rays, we would all be toast.

The Earths natural landscapes, they absorb solar energy and produce heat. It is the heat absorbed by mountains and plains that create local wind patterns. It is the heat absorbed by the oceans that creates the famous currents. Solar energy is responsible for thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes. It melts the mountain snows which form many of our rivers.

The mountains, plains, oceans, and lakes, they too absorb solar energy and convert it to heat. Gradually everything becomes warm and wind patterns develop. Glaciers melt and create rivers. Rain storms distribute water, fill up aquifers, and sustain forests and plant growth. Ocean currents are set in motion.

Each and every day we should all be giving thanks to the Sun. It may be the most important element to our existence which we take for granted. Imagine if one day we woke up and there was no Sun? It would be like losing power at your home, but a million times worse. Probably most people would fall into an immediate panic.

So if theres one thing for sure, as long as solar energy is here humans will be here. Solar energy is responsible for almost everything that surrounds us, in every form.

With the recent advances in materials and industry, we now find ourselves with some new inventions for working with solar energy. It is now possible to make electricity directly from sunlight in a photovoltaic device. We can harness solar energy in absorption and concentrating collectors and store the heat.

We are entering a new age of energy generation for fulfilling our daily needs. We believe modern civilization has only just begun with these new age energies. Reaping the benefits of solar power and solar heat is in its infancy.

How much can we rely on these new technologies to power our daily needs? Does making power from solar energy really save in the long run? How difficult are solar energy systems to integrate, and what types of technologies are the best? We pondered these very questions ourselves, and decided to share some of the answers.

To find out how to use solar energy as a nearly free source of power for your home get Walter Hull’s checklist on easy solar power from your yard.

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Present-Day And Future Alternative Energy Sources

January 20th, 2010

The major past energy sources have included petroleum and coal. With the sharp increase in energy prices, depleting non-renewable sources of energy, the increase of green house gases impacting global warming, the future of using alternative ‘green’ sources of energy looks bright. Governments around the world are feeling the pressure of consumer demands for alternative renewable energy sources that will not harm the environment.

Wind Power is one method of producing ‘green energy’ that is becoming popular all over the world. Wind turbines are used to create power. Wind turbines can be placed wherever there is sufficient amount of wind. The higher the number of installed wind turbines, the more electricity will be produced.

Solar energy is one alternative energy source that is expected to see an increase in use in the future. This form of energy makes use of the sun for power and heat. Solar panels harness the power of the sun without polluting the planet and atmosphere. The solar panels power generators provide the electricity. The solar panels are installed on the roofs of residential and commercial buildings. In the future, larger solar panels will be built that can power hundreds of thousands of homes Solar energy requires does not require any other energy source to operate and it is free of pollution. Sunlight can be harnessed as usable heat or converted into electricity using photoelectric cells, solar panels, or using synchronized mirrors called heliostats that follow the sun as it moves. Methods for using solar power to replace a gas-powered engine by heating hydrogen gas in a tank have also been developed. There have been positive results with powering a generator.

Hydro Power is another alternative energy source with proven results. The flowing water drives the turbines which produces the energy. The energy created is dependent on the strength and force of the water flow because rapid flowing water drives the mechanisms that help with producing electricity. The current is then sent through a transformer where the electricity is transmitted over power lines. This is an eco-friendly form of energy and in the future, it is expected that more hydro power stations will be erected where there is a suitable water supply.

Current technologies for new renewable green energy sources, particularly solar power and wind power, are proving to be quite promising for the future. As well, Geothermal Energy which is heat energy extracted from the earth to create steam to power the generators that produces the electricity, is another potential future large energy source. There is also much research and development going into Nuclear Fission. Salinization of water at river estuaries as an energy supply is another possible source of alternative energy because many experts suggest that it will be millions of years before there is any impact. Nuclear fusion and artificial photosynthesis are two other energy technologies currently being researched as possible future energy sources.

Much of the traditional sources of energy are becoming unsustainable making new greener sources of energy the wave of the future. Many corporations, ‘green’ entrepreneurs, and governments are investing in the future of the planet and its inhabitants by investing in alternative renewable energy sources. An investment in ‘green’ energy means a future of low energy costs and a greener sustainable environment.

Alternative energy sources don’t have to be hard to come by. If you want to experiment with green energy, look up for more resources online. There is a huge repository of information waiting for you there.

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Solar Power – The New Energy Source

January 16th, 2010

The United States is currently offering tax incentives for those wanting to switch to solar power. A lot of people are wondering if they will qualify for these incentives. If you have a system installed and live in the U. S. Then you should qualify. These don’t cover the entire price of the system though and you could still be looking at quite a bit of out of pocket expense.

Any time electrical energy is generated by the sun it is considered to be solar energy. A special system will usually be needed to harness this energy to run electrical devices. Besides the actual solar panels you will usually need a converter box that will be hooked up to your electrical pole. For safety reasons a professional may need to install these. Your electrical company will need to give permission as well.

The do it yourself kits look like something I would love to try if only as a science project for my son. These promise that anyone can do this but I have a hard time believing I could set up a system like this. Any time electricity is involved there is also a certain amount of risk. Fires, explosions, and electrocution all come to mind.

Most people have come to understand that fossil fuels simply can’t last forever. In the next few years we may see a great reduction in the amount of fossil fuel used in all countries. Solar power is only one of the alternatives being considered. Starting now can help you prepare for the future and save a lot of money on electricity at the same time.

You don’t even have to worry about cloudy days. Solar energy work with your regular power source to make sure you always have electricity. They combine to ensure you stay up and running weather it’s your home or business. If the solar energy is low it simply and automatically switches to your alternative energy source.

Of course they also have individual products that run on solar power as well. Some have even made cars that will run with solar panels. They also have lights that run on solar energy. Some of these are outdoor lights and you can get these for good prices. They can be very useful and convenient.

There is a lot more to using solar energy than I had thought. If you want to go solar you will need things like inverter boxes. I am not sure how these work and they sound complicated. This is part of the reason I am skeptical about do it yourself projects of this nature. One of the sites I visited also mentioned the need for permits.

Keep in mind that electricity of any kind can be dangerous. Check all local laws and follow any safety instructions before you try to do any electrical work on your own. Professional advice may be helpful. If you know an electrician then they may be willing to give free advice on this matter.

More and more people are switching to solar power at least in part for their homes and businesses. You can start now or wait a few years until the prices come down and supplies are more widely available. The sooner you get it the sooner you can save money on your electrical usage.

Solar power provides an efficient and environmentally friendly source for energy. In order to promote a greener society, wind power should also be considered as an alternative option.

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Reviewing The Popular Forms Of Hot Water Heating Systems

December 25th, 2009

We have a tendency to all get pleasure from the thought of getting easily accessible hot water in our home, and it’s the presence of hot water heating systems that creates this happen.

No matter your needs might be, the employment of water heaters within residences is something that you will undoubtedly need to think about if you’re getting into a recently made home, or simply in need of a new heating system for water.

There are some unique sorts that you may have to settle on, and I’d like to expand further regarding 3 of the foremost commonly used ones. Hopefully you’ll be able to confirm which one of them is most appropriately suited to your house and needs, resulting in a successful addition to your home.

If you are similar to most homeowners, you will simply want to buy a gas water heater. There are many reasons that people go with gas, and probably the most common one revolves around the fact that gas water heating systems are the most affordable to buy.

On another hand, they are typically the toughest to take care of since they’ll need regular gas refills in order to keep them active.

If you’re someone who has a preference for convenience, then you may want to choose an electric hot water heating system. The explanation for this has to do with the truth that the only thing you need to do is leave it plugged in, and the unit runs on its own, giving you conveniently readily accessible hot water whenever you need it.

A last possibility that appears to increase in popularity as time goes by is the solar water heater. This method is the best energy efficient approach of going about things, and you’ll rest assured that you will not need to fret about expensive energy expenses.

However, this hot water heating system can typically sell for hundreds more money than the other two models previously discussed.

Get more facts about on demand hot water heaters at this writer’s web site.

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Hot Water Heaters and the Various Kinds

December 11th, 2009

There’s a wide range in initial costs associated with the purchase of any hot water heating systems, but the real cost may come during the years that follow. Your monthly energy bills may be profoundly impacted by the unit you choose, and this is one of the many factors you should consider when buying a hot water heater for your home.

Let’s take a look at a few of the different types of options available on the market. Hopefully one of these will appeal to you more than others, leading to a successful purchase that satisfies your needs.

Any discussion of hot water heating systems should begin with gas, since these are the most popular option in homes. Since they require the smallest investment with respect to buying one, people usually opt for these.

What people forget about is the fact that gas costs can add up to a lot of money over time, as any water heaters will regularly consume their supply of gas before needing more.

If that doesn’t appeal to you, it may be in your interest to look into some of the many electric hot water heating systems offered up for sale. On the plus side, you won’t have to worry about refilling it with gas. Then again, you should expect a higher energy bill due to the electrical consumption involved here.

If you’re both environment conscious and have a long term outlook with respect to costs, you should definitely look into a solar water heater. The up front investment is higher, but the long term costs will work to your favor.

For those looking to save on energy bills but without the budget to pay for a solar model, the on demand hot water heater might be a nice compromise. These only operate upon your request, though the water can take a bit longer to heat up. Large families with a constant need for hot water may struggle to do well with these, since a larger water tank will generally take even longer before it heats up.

Now that you have a basic understanding as to the most popular options, hopefully one of these hot water heating systems makes the most sense for your situation. Review the possibilities thoroughly by doing some more research, and I’m confident that you’ll find a great fit for your home and your needs.

While we’ve gone over the basics of the subject here, a lot more reading about solar hot water heating can be accessed by anyone in search of more information.

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