Wind Farms Catch Fire 10X More Than Reported
Friday, July 18, 2014 - 00:30
in Physics & Chemistry
Government subsidies have made wind farming a leader in the renewable energy sector. It isn't just politicians tired of subsidies and environmentalists and homeowners who don't want them near their homes, they also catch fire more than is reported. Wind turbines catch fire because highly flammable materials such as hydraulic oil and plastics are in close proximity to machinery and electrical wires. These can ignite a fire if they overheat or are faulty. Lots of oxygen, in the form of high winds, can quickly fan a fire inside a turbine. Once ignited, the chances of fighting the blaze are slim due to the height of the wind turbine and the remote locations that they are often in. read more
