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PROJECT FOR
WIND TURBINES
/ 1999–2004
Research into the construction of lightweight, high-
performance wind turbines was carried out for Fabricom
(Suez Group), starting from the theory of the ‘morphol-
ogy of structures using volume and displacement indica-
tors’ (published by the Royal Academy of Belgium),
discussed in Chapter 5. The concept was subsequently
used in the competition organised by Enelerga for wind
turbines at Cinisi and Pescopagano in Italy. The turbines
consist of two superimposed, cable-stayed conical sec-
tions, a vertical mast and a small conical base to hold
the electrical cabling. They require only small founda-
tions. It is worth quoting Philippe Samyn concerning
these structures: ‘These days, there is a certain paradox
in wanting to produce green energy with wind turbines,
given the large amount of material needed for the con-
struction of their masts and foundations, as well as the
heavy equipment needed to hoist the blades to the top
[of the masts]. Masts and foundations typically consist
of a large, heavy tubular steel structure resting on a
thick concrete slab, which itself is sometimes supported
by a large number of piles. The ground pollution caused
by this large amount of poured concrete is an additional
issue from an ecological viewpoint. Finally, the mast’s
imposing presence is not suitable for every location.
Using the [volume indicator] method, it has been
possible […] to develop a very light mast fitted with
studded cables. In addition, this morphology offers the
possibility of raising the mast vertically, after having fit-
ted it on the ground with the shaft and propeller, using
the mast’s bracing cables to raise it. This eliminates the
need for heavy hoisting equipment, which also means
that turbines can be installed in remote sites.’