How to Convert an Alternator to Wind Power
An alternator is a electricity-producing device. An alternator is similar to a generator, but it is more efficient and produces alternating current (AC). Every modern car uses an alternator to charge the battery and run the electronics, but these alternators use a current bridge to convert the AC to direct current (DC). In a practical sense, if you want to use an alternator to convert wind power into electricity, you will want to produce AC, meaning you will need to remove the current bridge from a car alternator. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Old car alternator
- Screwdriver
- Large, old windmill
- Open-end wrenches
- Clutch
- Mounting bolts
Instructions
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1
Remove the current bridge from the alternator using the screwdriver. The current bridge is the little box where the wires leave the alternator.
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2
Disassemble the back of the driveshaft of the windmill using the open-end wrenches. You will need to be able to slide the clutch onto the end of the driveshaft in order to connect the fan blades to the alternator.
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3
Slide the input side of the clutch onto the back end of the windmill's driveshaft and tighten it in place. A small bolt or screw on the clutch is used to secure the input side to the driveshaft.
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4
Slide the driveshaft of the alternator into the output of the clutch and tighten it in place. If you hold the alternator, you should be able to slowly spin the fan blades without turning the alternator's driveshaft. At higher speeds, the clutch will engage, turning the alternator and producing electricity.
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5
Mount the alternator to the side of the windmill's frame. Make sure the alternator is secure, because at higher wind speeds, considerable torque can be placed on the alternator by the fan.
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Tips & Warnings
Use the smallest car alternator and the largest farm windmill available. This will allow you to produce electricity even when wind is light.
References
- Photo Credit Thomas Northcut/Photodisc/Getty Images
