The first book on wind energy designed specifically with technicians in mind! INTRODUCTION TO WIND PRINCIPLES, 1/e covers all aspects of installing and troubleshooting wind turbines, giving technicians the knowledge they need to handle even complex maintenance tasks. Writing clearly and simply, Thomas Kissell explains how wind turbine blades harvest wind energy, and how generators convert shaft turning energy into electricity. He shows how electrical and hydraulic systems control the speed of wind turbine blades, energizing blade pitch and yaw position controls. Mechanical subjects such as gears, transmissions and gearboxes are discussed in detail. Many pictures and diagrams are included, and all math and data is provided: no calculus or other mathematics is required. Some additional features include: Comprehensive, in-depth coverage—including wind turbine installation and troubleshooting, towers, blades, generators, control, and much more History, background, trends, and demand projections—Provides the context needed to understand the growing role of wind energy Coverage of all parts of vertical and horizontal wind turbines—including small, medium, and large wind turbines Essential electrical coverage—including basic electricity theory, magnetism, motors, generators, PLC controls, and the electrical grid Extensive discussion of mechanical topics Towers, tower designs, and safety- walks through the advantages and disadvantages of each type of tower, discusses the principles of safe tower design and construction, and explains nacelle installation Integration of wind-generated electricity into the grid