Will N52 Magnets Offset Costs vs N50 in a Piggot Wind Turbine?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the cost-effectiveness of using N52 magnets versus N50 or N35 magnets in a Hugh Piggot-designed homebrew horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT). The participant considers purchasing N52 magnets priced at approximately $10 each compared to N35 magnets at about $1 each. They plan to use N45 magnets instead, which are 2"x 1/2"x 1/16" and cost $1.15 each, while also increasing the number of windings in the coils to generate sufficient voltage at lower RPMs. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the magnetic properties of the magnets and suggests consulting datasheets for detailed specifications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of magnet grades (N52, N50, N35, N45)
  • Familiarity with wind turbine design principles, specifically Hugh Piggot's methods
  • Knowledge of coil winding techniques for generating voltage
  • Basic understanding of magnetic properties and their impact on turbine performance
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the magnetic properties and performance differences between N52, N50, and N35 magnets
  • Study Hugh Piggot's wind turbine design principles in detail
  • Learn about coil winding techniques to optimize voltage generation at low RPMs
  • Examine datasheets for various magnet grades to understand their specifications and applications
USEFUL FOR

Individuals interested in building homebrew wind turbines, hobbyists exploring alternative energy solutions, and engineers focusing on magnet applications in renewable energy systems.

vadslram
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I'm back in school after decades away and taking alternative energy .. just because it was interesting.
In the wind power class we talked about Hugh Piggot and the home brew HAWTs he makes and teaches. That gave me the bug to see if I can do it. I'm pretty sure I can buy a used turbine on EBay for cheaper, but that's not the point.

My question for the brains here is:
Will a N52 set of magnets generate enough extra to offset the costs vs a N50 or less.
It seems like a 50 x 20x 3 N52 runs around 10 bucks a piece but the same size N35s are around a dollar. I was tempted to get 24 of each and see the difference but $240 seems like a more expensive hobby question then I want to play with.

Also he recommends the 50mm magnets and the coils are wound to match. If I go with a smaller magnet with the same coil will it work at all or wind the coils smaller will it not generate at all?
 
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vadslram said:
My question for the brains here is:
Will a N52 set of magnets generate enough extra to offset the costs vs a N50 or less.
It seems like a 50 x 20x 3 N52 runs around 10 bucks a piece but the same size N35s are around a dollar. I was tempted to get 24 of each and see the difference but $240 seems like a more expensive hobby question then I want to play with.

your question is about the magnetic properties of your proposed magnets
a link to their datasheets would be the first step toward an answer.

That said, the "how to " article you linked is best one I've seen.
 

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