Wind Power Generator: Small & Cheap Alternator Suggestions

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on finding a small and inexpensive generator or alternator suitable for building a vertical wind-powered turbine system. Participants explore various options, specifications, and considerations related to the design and functionality of such generators.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests looking into building a generator from Volvo wheel hubs and winding coils, emphasizing the practicality of creating a custom solution.
  • Another participant proposes using a 12-volt DC motor from a car, noting that these motors can function as generators when run in reverse and are suitable for charging a 12-volt battery.
  • Concerns are raised about the need for gearing to ensure that the generator operates at higher RPMs than the windmill rotor, given that vertical axis windmills typically operate at low speeds with high torque.
  • A request for clarification on the definitions of "small" and "cheap" is made, indicating a need for more specific parameters in the discussion.
  • Further clarification is provided regarding the desired size (under a foot in diameter) and cost (less than $50), along with a power level of 1 kW or less, suitable for airspeeds under 15 mph.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the best type of generator to use, with some suggesting specific models or types while others question the definitions of "small" and "cheap." The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing views on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not settled on specific generator models or designs, and there are unresolved assumptions regarding the performance characteristics of suggested alternatives.

goober2906
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Hi,

I'm trying to build a vertical wind powered turbine system and I'm have trouble finding a small, cheap generator/alternator to use. Does anyone have any suggestions?
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
If you want to build something that works - rather than a science fair project check out these http://www.otherpower.com/
They discuss why you should make your own generator from Volvo wheel hubs and wind your own coils!
 
I'm not sure if this is too small, but any 12 volt DC motor from a car should work in reverse as a DC generator. These might be the motors that run the windshield wipers or those that operate the windows. The good thing about them is that they're already perfect for charging a 12 volt battery.

I have one I picked up at a swap meet. It has a large speed reduction through a worm gear. To use it as a generator that worm gear would have to be removed and some other means of gearing it up arrived at.

Most vertical axis wind mills are high torque/low speed and you need to arrange your gears or pulleys such that the generator is running at much higher RPMs than the windmill rotor. The slower the rotor, the more torque the wind applies to it.
 
Define "small" and "cheap".
 
goober2906 said:
Hi,

I'm trying to build a vertical wind powered turbine system and I'm have trouble finding a small, cheap generator/alternator to use. Does anyone have any suggestions?
What power level 1 kW, 10 kW, . . .?
 
Small, as in under a foot diameter, cheap as in less than $50 dollars.

1kW or less. nothing extravagant. Its for a small wind turbine to be used for airspeeds of less than 15mph.

Thanks!
 

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