Choosing a Marine Wind Generator for the Green Sailor
The most important equipment any serious sailor will ensure they have while sailing around the world is a wind generator. In the present scenario, sailboats are equipped with sophisticated and high-energy technology, which is necessary for a safe and comfortable cruise. These are the factors to keep in mind when choosing a marine wind generator.
A marine wind generator installation is pretty easy and straightforward. They can be installed in a variety of places. Mizzen mast or stern posts are some of the common installation points.
Brain: A microprocessor-based controller in your marine wind generator will result in better operation, enhanced battery charging ability, more reliability, and the lessening of flutter noise from the blades.
The controller lets the most advantageous use of the wind to be tracked and sees to the effective delivery of the power to the battery. The brain of the generator permits it to monitor and manipulate blade rotation speed. This takes care of the buzzing noise frequently found with the small wind generators.
Output: Choosing a marine wind generator that starts producing power at around 5MPH, is the most viable option. It should go up from here. It should produce power at low speeds, but it must also control the blades in gale force winds. In the case of high winds, the turbines will control the blades, letting them turn slowly and in the process, generate small amounts of power until the storm is over.
Noise: A very common concern and a frequent complain of a marine wind generator is the noise. In fact, this is an issue with ALL types of wind generators. The blades cause a loud flutter noise during high winds. In high winds it is best if the brain of your turbine controls the blades and only allows them to spin slowly so as to protect both you and the machine.
Blade design also contributes to the noise. Look for an aero-elastic blade design for your next marine wind generator to minimize sound pollution as well as protect the turbine in gale force winds.
Size: It depends on the size of your boat. The most common size chosen for turbine blades is 36” in diameter. Benefits of this size include: less windage, less weight aloft, and is least likely to overpower the area of your boat.
Reliability: The marine wind generator you choose should include marine grade materials and stainless steel fittings. The generator windings must be properly sealed. The blades should have the capacity to withstand speeds up to many times the turbine’s maximum rpm.
Battery Charging: Ensure that you do not drain or over-charge the battery to make it last longer. Keep in mind that the charge controller of the wind turbines has the ability to read the battery voltage, compare it to the voltage setting and completely shut off all current going to the battery if it is fully charged. The turbine will startup and resume charging the moment the battery drops below its voltage set point.