Build your own Savonius VAWT (Vertical Axis Wind Turbine)

Step 8 Time to make some power

I'll add a generator set soon. There's plenty on my workbench.

With the following assumptions:
m(air) = 1.2 kilos per cubic meter
area(frontal) = 0.7 square meters
windspeed = 5 meters per second (about 15 kph)

Then Watts = 0.5 x 1.2 x 0.7 x (5³⁾
= 52.5 watts

However Savonius Vawts seldom do better than 30%, so I better find about a 20 to 50 watt DC motor somewhere to try it out.

Check back soon...

Comments

[ecoego]

any update or news? I'm curious how much power you are getting out of just one of these. What will you be powering?

[sam D]

Hey there, I am now just moved my workshop to a 5m by 9m shed. Expect an update soon! I am going to build a little genset of about 10 watts. But you can check out my other vids on youtube - I have been playing with adaptive blades.
http://www.youtube.com/user/samdekok72

[nickjohnson]

those gaps between the boards in your workbench must drive you crazy!

[sam D]

Really handy for punching out nails and holding stuff. At first I thought so too - but like most ikea things you just gotta work em out. Cheers!