Axis Rod Building

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When people see the massive wind generators used to make power commercially, they assume that building a wind turbine has to cost a fortune. In reality, you can create wind power from the comfort of your home with readily available parts found at any hardware store.

Consider this an introductory lesson, not something you should act on right away. The purpose of this article is to give you an overview of what is involved and the cheap parts you can use.

Creating the blades

Small turbines typically have blades made from PVC pipe. It's strong, can hold up to the weather, not to mention the modest price. You will need pipe with a nice large diameter, typically around 2 feet. The pipe is cut into sections then cut again so the blanks taper at one end. Two tapered pieces are attached together with opposing curves. This creates a shape suitable for harnessing wind force. The goal here is to replicate a wing. To make it even more efficient sand down the leading edge to a rounded surface and the trailing edge to a sharp tapered profile.

Assembling the main unit

A small engine with a nice large flywheel is suitable to act as the generator. The next step is to attach the blades to the flywheel of the motor. Each blade will need holes drilled into it and the flywheel must be tapped to allow you to screw in a bolt.

Tip: A treadmill engine is perfect for a wind turbine project.

Mount the motor and add the tail

Any metal pipe with a base is suitable for a stand. You will need a pipe junction attached at the top of the stand so the windmill can freely spin as the wind changes direction. To build the tail, a square-shaped metal rod with a piece of sheet metal at the end works great. Attach the motor to the stand with hose clamps. Now you can connect your blade assembly to the flywheel.

Tip: Visit the scrap metal yard to find a nice, strong pipe stand.

Generating power

Because the voltage is unsteady you will be using the wind power to charge two batteries. Now if you were to connect a blade assembly to it and power the thing up, it would be a propeller, not a turbine. A key component you need to allow the electricity to flow one way only and charge the batteries is called a bridge rectifier. This is put in the chain in-between the battery and generator.

Tip: Golf cart batteries are the perfect size

Diagrams and detailed instructions

To complete the project and make free electricity at home, follow this Windmill Manual.

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