How to Build a Wind Generator

A wind generator is a device which generates power by harnessing the energy of the wind. Traditionally, wind turbines were used in windmills wherein they used to rotate by the force of wind and power the mills. The same technology is used to generate electricity today, wherein the energy harnessed from wind is stored in batteries and used to power electrical appliances.

This alternative source of energy is absolutely pollution free and doesn't produce greenhouse gases or any toxic waste. As the basic source of this energy, wind, itself doesn't have any threat of extinction, we can depend on the energy forever. It doesn't require fuel, therefore the cost of harnessing energy for future use is negligible. You only have to spend on initial investment of purchasing a wind generator. And if you still want to minimize your financial investment, you can build one of your own.

Material Required

The basic components of a wind generator include the blades, its body, a motor, the hub, a tail, batteries and a diode. You would also require tools like a saw, bolts, a hammer, etc. Its blades can be either purchased or constructed at home. If you are planning to make wooden blades, cedar wood will be the best option as it is strong and flexible. You can even use PVC pipes to make the blades. The body and the tail of the generator can be made from recycled double-wall stainless steel chimney pipe. It can sustain rough weather and will thus keep the inner components of the generator safe. The tail helps in keeping the generator facing towards the direction from which the wind is coming.

Building a Wind Generator

Choose a motor which is rated for high DC voltage, low RPM and high current. The size of the motor will depend on the size of the blades of the generator. A motor above 40 volts or more will be an ideal bet. The generator hub can be constructed from a circular piece of steel. Attach the blades and motor to the hub with the help of bolts. Batteries are used to harness the energy that is produced by the generator. The batteries can be connected to the generator by a thick wire. As batteries are sensitive to excessive heat or cold, they need to be placed at an ideal location away from these weather factors. It's wise to place them at a spot wherein they can be continuously monitored. You can attach a wall meter to determine whether the batteries are charging or not. The wind generator diode attached to the generator will allow you to monitor whether the current is flowing in right direction, that is towards the batteries and not towards the generator. The last, but the most important thing, is to purchase a good quality inverter and attach it to the batteries. This inverter will send alternating current power to the outlets in your home.

Though wind power constitutes only about 1.5 percent of worldwide electricity used today, one can't deny the fact that it has come a long way (in fact, doubled over the last three years) to become one of the top contenders to replace fossil fuels today. And going by the fact that it is cheap and environment friendly, it wouldn't be surprising to see the world accept it in years to come.