Wind Speed At Different Heights Calculator

Wind Speed Formula:

\[ v_2 = v_1 \left( \frac{h_2}{h_1} \right)^\alpha \]

Known Wind Speed (v₁):

m/s

Reference Height (h₁):

Target Height (h₂):

Wind Shear Exponent (α):

(dimensionless)

Wind Speed at Target Height (v₂): m/s

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1. What is a Wind Speed At Different Heights Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates wind speed at a target height based on known wind speed at a reference height and the wind shear exponent.

Purpose: It helps meteorologists, engineers, and energy professionals understand how wind speed changes with altitude.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the power law formula:

\[ v_2 = v_1 \left( \frac{h_2}{h_1} \right)^\alpha \]

Where:

\( v_2 \) — Wind speed at target height (m/s)
\( v_1 \) — Known wind speed at reference height (m/s)
\( h_2 \) — Target height (m)
\( h_1 \) — Reference height (m)
\( \alpha \) — Wind shear exponent (dimensionless)

Explanation: The formula models how wind speed increases with height due to reduced surface friction.

3. Importance of Wind Speed Calculation

Details: Accurate wind speed estimation at different heights is crucial for wind turbine placement, building design, and atmospheric studies.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the known wind speed (v₁), reference height (h₁, default 10m), target height (h₂), and wind shear exponent (α, default 0.14). All height values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the wind shear exponent (α)?
A: It's an empirical constant that depends on surface roughness. Typical values range from 0.10 (smooth terrain) to 0.40 (urban areas).

Q2: Why is 10m the default reference height?
A: 10m is the standard height for meteorological wind measurements.

Q3: When would I need to adjust the wind shear exponent?
A: Adjust α based on terrain: 0.10-0.15 for open water, 0.20 for open terrain, 0.25-0.40 for built-up areas.

Q4: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a good estimate but actual wind profiles can vary due to local topography and atmospheric conditions.

Q5: What's the height limit for this formula?
A: The power law works well up to about 200m. For higher altitudes, logarithmic profiles are more accurate.