How to Create a Backyard Wind Turbine on a Budget

Introduction

Installing a wind turbine in your backyard can be an excellent way to reduce your electricity bills and carbon footprint. However, commercial wind turbines can be very expensive. In this article, I will provide a step-by-step guide on how to build a simple, low-cost wind turbine using commonly available materials.

Benefits of Backyard Wind Turbines

Some key benefits of having a backyard wind turbine include:

• Reduced electricity bills - Any electricity generated from the turbine reduces the amount you need to buy from the grid. This can save you money each month.

• Energy independence - Producing your own renewable electricity gives you energy security and reduces reliance on the grid.

• Low maintenance - Small wind turbines are very reliable and require little ongoing maintenance.

• Eco-friendly - Wind energy produces no greenhouse gas emissions, unlike fossil fuel power plants.

Component Selection

The main components required are:

Blades

• Select 3 wind turbine blades to capture the wind energy. Wood, plastic or metal will work.
• Longer and thinner blades are more efficient.
• Aim for a minimum blade length of 1.2m.

Generator

• This converts the rotational energy into electricity.
• A permanent magnet AC generator is a good choice for small DIY turbines.
• Select one rated for at least 400W.

Tower

• The turbine needs to be raised high above obstacles to reach stronger winds.
• 10m height is recommended as a minimum.
• Possible options include metal scaffolding poles or woodenutility poles.

Batteries

• Batteries store excess electricity generated for later use.
• Deep cycle lead-acid batteries are a cost-effective option.
• You will need a battery charge controller to protect the batteries.

Inverter

• An inverter converts the generator's low voltage DC output into 120/240V AC electricity for household use.
• Grid-tie inverters sync the current with the grid.

Wind Turbine Design

There are two main design options:

• Horizontal axis - The rotor spins horizontally around the tower. More efficient.
• Vertical axis - The rotor spins vertically around the tower. Omni-directional.

For DIY projects, a horizontal axis, upwind configuration is simpler to construct. The blades face into the wind upstream of the tower.

Safety Considerations

• Install guy wires to securely anchor the tower against strong winds.
• Place the turbine well away from areas frequented by people or animals.
• Use a braking system to stop the rotor in high winds.
• Ensure all electrical wiring is properly insulated and connections are weatherproof.
• Turn off and isolate the turbine before any maintenance.
• Check that your design complies with any zoning regulations and obtain permits.

Step-by-Step Construction

Follow these steps to build the wind turbine:

1. Create the blades

• Cut 3 identical blades from your chosen material using a template.
• Add a steel plate to the root of each blade for attachment to the hub.

2. Build the generator housing

• This protects the generator from the elements.
• Weld steel tube or angle iron into a cage structure and attach mounting plates.

3. Assemble the rotor

• Bolt the blades equidistantly around a central hub disk.
• Attach to the front generator mount via a bearing.

4. Mount the generator

• Fix the generator to the rear mount plate on the housing.
• Connect blades to generator shaft.

5. Construct the tower

• Cement pole sections or scaffolding into the ground.
• Make sure overall height is sufficient.
• Allow easy access up the tower for maintenance.

6. Install the turbine

• Hoist the turbine assembly up and bolt to the top of the tower.
• Attach guy wires from halfway up the tower for support.

7. Add electrical components

• Connect the generator to the batteries via a charge controller.
• Wire up grid-tie inverter and household circuit.
• Ensure all electrics are weatherproof.

8. Test operation

• Check the rotor spins freely before generation begins.
• Gradually bring up to full operating speed and load.
• Monitor performance and look for any issues.

Cost Breakdown

Here is an example cost breakdown for a basic 400W backyard wind turbine:

• Blades/hub - $120
• Generator - $350
• Charge controller - $180
• Batteries - $400
• Inverter - $250
• Tower/hardware - $300
• Total - approx. $1600

This budget setup should give you a functional wind turbine that will generate renewable electricity and cut your bills. With DIY labor and sourcing used components, costs can be reduced further.

Conclusion

Constructing a wind turbine in your backyard is an achievable project for the DIY enthusiast. Carefully select suitable components and design a sturdy supporting structure. Follow safety guidelines and build incrementally, testing as you go. Soon you will be harnessing free wind energy to power your home!