Homemade VAWT - Low Wind Test

I made this Vertical Axis wind turbine from old bike wheels i found in the neighbours trash pile and a piece of PVC pipe I found in the basement. This is the first day with consistent wind since I made it, and it's cranking!

Wind speed 10-15 km/hr.

I am going to find an old treadmill or washing machine motor to rig up with a small cog to run off the big cog on the bottom wheel. Hopefully will get a good ratio to boost the rpm of the motor shaft.

Then we can see how much power this thing can put out! I'd like to take it somewhere really windy to see what it can do. The current location is alright, but doesn't get 360 degree wind, only northerlies and southerlies. Luckily (?) the cold southerlies blow quite hard sometimes so hopefully by the time i've made a solid base for the frame I'll be able to see it in some stronger winds.

Will post further updates. Enjoy :)

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• VAWT
• wind power
• generate electricity
• home made
• sustainable power
• free electricity

[kk2m2]

what is the angle of the blades please,

[olicarnivorous]

@kk2m2 I just cut straight into the rim of the bike wheel with an angle grinder, the curve of the PVC pipe creates the angle. The pipe is cut into thirds lengthwise. Cheers

[imikewillrockyou]

Looking good! A VAWT this size, if designed right, can put out a whole lot of energy.

[emagnets]

hey, good start.