Is It Possible To Make Your Own Wind Turbine?

It's no secret, wind power is in. Each year the Wind Power Industry grows dramatically. Wind is a free and abundant energy source that cannot be over looked as an alternative, or a supplement to common grid connections. But wind turbines are not cheap. A wind turbine system requires a substantial investment. And with many people having their financial resources already stretched, just cannot afford the large investment. Is it possible to build your own wind turbine and save money in doing so? Yes, you can make your own wind turbine. Can you save money by making your own turbine? The answer to that depends on if you are skilled and patient enough. If you build a wind turbine and it doesn't work correctly or it doesn't last very long, you really haven't saved anything. Building a wind turbine requires certain trade skills, but is not out of the question for the DIY homeowner. Below is a list of the skills, tools, and materials needed to construct a wind generator.

Some Skills You Need

Experience with power tools is a necessity. You must also be proficient at cutting metal and plastic as well as sanding and drilling. Some mechanical experience is a plus. Some knowledge of electric wiring is required. Being able to follow and execute a plan is the key. Welding is not necessary but is a great advantage in making your mast. Mind map your project out and complete it step by step. You must have patience and not be in a hurry. Remember, quality work is what you are after!

Tools You Will Need

Here is a basic rundown on the tools you will need to have on hand in order to build your own wind turbine. This is a basic list and may not reflect all the tools you may need.

   •    Drill and Drill Bits
   •    Hacksaw
   •    Jigsaw
   •    Metal File
   •    Sandpaper
   •    Crescent Wrenches
   •    Pipe Wrench
   •    Screwdrivers
   •    Crescent Wrench
   •    Vise
   •    Wire Cutters
   •    Tape Measure
   •    Magic Marker
   •    Thread Tapping Set
   •    Welder
   •    Clean working area

Materials You Will Need

These are the basic materials you will need for constructing a wind turbine. As a basic list, these materials will be based on the plan you choose. You should plan on having a little more materials on hand than your specifications call for. If you make a mistake, you can re-fabricate that part.

   •    1 DC Motor
   •    1 50 amp Blocking Diode    •    4 feet of 8 inch PVC pipe
   •    2 square feet of 1/8 inch sheet aluminum or other light weight material
   •    25 feet 2 inch iron pipe
   •    4 feet of 1 inch square metal tubing
   •    1 Flange Hub
   •    Assorted Bolts and Nuts
   •    Assorted Sheet Metal Screws
   •    Assorted Washers
   •    Welding Rods

With these skills, tools, and materials it is possible to make your own wind turbine. The last main ingredient is a good plan to build from. There are several DIY kits or plans for building your own wind turbine. It is best to choose a wind turbine plan that features some video instruction. Take your time and do quality work. Remember that your new wind turbine will only be as good as you make it.

This Article was written by Marty Kaye, a Homemade Energy enthusiast.
Reproduction or republication of this article in whole or part, in any form is prohibited.
Copyright Marty Kaye - plus5free.com © 2010

Additionl Resources For Wind Generators And Wind Energy

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