Most people with their own wind systems use three banks of batteries. These banks are
set up so each bank can be monitored. Having one bank Charged and In Reserve,
allowing the system some freedom. No single bank is allowed to drop below 65% of it's
rated capacity. When such a condition occurs that bank switches or is switched directly
into the wind generator's charging circuit. People that have an average wind speed of
less than 10 m.p.h. need to look elsewhere for their power. Wind speed averages this
low usually mean numerous periods where there will be days without wind. Under these
conditions it is impossible to maintain a healthy battery storage system.
A 480 amps charging capacity is inadequate for charging more than three batteries if 60
amps is its maximum rating. The BOSCH alternator that was used in for the axle prop
has a rating of 40-100 amps depending on speed and a voltage rating of 14. It's actual
start-up condition @ 10 m.p.h. was 13.8 volts, 38 amps, 524 watts respectively. As
wind speed increases, current and wattage also increase proportionately. In high wind
conditions, operational Dummy Loads are used. Pre water heaters, DC water pumps for
the yard and heating elements in the winter months. We also employ various mechanical
devices to prevent overspeed conditions. This is the largest problem with any wind
generating system - overspeed. The formulas that we use are intended to take an
alternator or generators operational perameters into consideration, that's why when done
properly, the work so well.
Offered by Jay.