Introduction: Wind Mill (vertical Axis Wind Turbine)

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About: Former novelty inventor. I have had some great successes and none of them are financial. I have built and contributed on more than 100 creations. I am transitioning more into a mentor role and I help others fo…

Students of Drafting and Engineering at Truckee Meadows Community College (T.M.C.C) build their own version of a vertical axis windmill. The plans were drawn by using the free student versions of AutoCAD / Inventor offered by AutoDesk to students of the school.

The goal was to make it out of the most affordable parts from any hardware store. This was made with 2 sheets of plywood, 11 2x4's, 2 PVC pipes, paint, skate bearings, bolts and screws and cost less than 200$ per unit without the generator (300$). The reason for the size was that the generator was 'high output' and could barely be turned by hand, if you choose to use a car alternator, then you should downsize this design and switch to metal flashing. I hope to have a link for files soon.

If you are in RENO, I recommend the drafting program for 3D AutoCAD. It will help you design and create whatever you like to build.