Alternator which is light in weight

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on selecting a lightweight alternator suitable for a small impulse turbine power source, with specifications of either 12V * 25A or 200 * 1.5A at approximately 500 RPM. The user seeks advice on which specification is more appropriate, emphasizing the need for low moment of inertia for ease of rotation. Key insights include the importance of estimating mechanical power output from the turbine, with a calculation example showing that 500 RPM at 1 Newton-meter of torque yields 52 watts. Additionally, the distinction between small DC motors and alternators is highlighted, noting that both can serve as effective DC generators.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrical specifications (e.g., voltage and current ratings)
  • Basic knowledge of mechanical power calculations
  • Familiarity with DC motors and alternators
  • Concept of moment of inertia in rotating systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research lightweight DC generators suitable for low RPM applications
  • Learn about calculating mechanical power from torque and RPM
  • Explore the differences between permanent magnet stators and rotors
  • Investigate the use of small DC motors in hobbyist projects as generators
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for engineers, hobbyists, and anyone involved in designing or selecting lightweight power generation solutions, particularly those utilizing small turbines or low RPM applications.

darkprinz
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friends...

one urgent help ..

i need an alternator which is light in weight and the shaft should be easy to rotate because we have a small impulse turbine as power source ... when i enquired a shop out here .. he is asking me some specs... like 12v * 25 amp or 200 *1.5amps .. the speed of rotation will be around 500 rpm...

please tell me which of the above two specs are more suitable for my application ... it should not be heavy i.e moment of inertia should be less .. please also tell me the adv and dis-adv of both the specs .. thanks in advance :wink:
 
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Hi darkprinz-
You first need to estimate the amount of mechanical power you expect to get (as input) from the turbine. For example, 500 RPM at 1 Newton-meter of torque is 52 watts. Then you should look at possible alternators (or dc generators). There are a lot of small dc motors used in toys and other hobbies that make for good dc generators. The main difference between a small alternator (dynamo) and a dc brush motor is that one has a permanent magnet stator, and the other a permanent magnet rotor. For a steady RPM, the rotor inertia doesn't matter.

Bob S
 

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