How to Build a Wind Generator

Capture the power of the wind by building your own wind generator. Get to know the basic steps involved to decide if a wind generator would work for your location and budget. Especially considering rising energy costs, investigating alternative power--such as wind power--is well worth the effort.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Find an ideal site for the wind generator. In order to work efficiently, the wind generator will need to be positioned 30 feet higher than any obstruction within a 400 foot radius.
2. Determine the prevailing wind direction in the area. Note any general patterns of cloud and weather movement; pay attention to the direction storms typically move, and which way the trees blow. Contact the local airport or weather station for tips.
3. Position batteries as close to the generator as possible to maximize efficiency (consider using 24 or 48 Volt battery banks).
4. Choose between a stationary wind generator tower and a tilt-up variety. Either must be securely anchored and preferably built with 2- to 3-inch steel pipe. While the tilt-up tower eases access the generator and the stationary may force you to climb, the latter is a more sturdy option.
5. Buy or make an anemometer to determine the wind speed at the selected wind generator site. It is important in order to ensure the generator is working to capacity, and also to know when to shut the generator down during heavy weather.
6. Decide between a commercial or homemade generator/alternator. There are several price and quality options, but the specific type will depend on size and power output needs. If you're adept at mechanical construction, consider researching a homemade style that would work for you.
7. Harness the wind. You're going to need a rotor to catch the power of the wind and change it into energy you can use. The rotor slows the wind down and the alternator/generator collects its energy. Research different rotor designs online, and match the recommendations and specifications to your particular tower, considering size, wind and power output.
8. Design a system to move or rotate the tower out of strong winds to protect the wind generator from damage. Check out examples online--some allow the generator to continue running.
9. Develop a system to regulate the power when batteries are fully charged; you must provide an occasional outlet for the build-up. Try the traditional method of turning on connected lights, or research other options, such as shunt regulation, diodes or bridge rectifiers.
10. Design a method to transfer the power down the generator tower. Consider using a pendant cable or slip rings.

Tips & Warnings

• Constructing a wind generator is fairly complicated; this is a general reference to help you decide if it's a feasible option for you. Research in depth before undertaking the project, and make sure you're experienced with electricity and construction, or else be well-advised before you begin.

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