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wind generators

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77Gypsy
Captain

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USA
356 Posts

Initially Posted - 07/06/2003 : 14:33:01

have any of you installed a wind generater on your boats? i was wondering if there were any smaller less expensive models for our boats.

Steve
78 C25 SR/FK - Gypsy
<img src="http://www.websdf.com/logo.jpg" border=0>

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JimB517
Past Commodore

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USA
3285 Posts

Response Posted - 07/07/2003 : 14:36:12

Solar panels work great on my boat. The United Solar Flex-11 is an 11 watt panel, costs $99. I have 2 (3 would be better). I also have a voltage regulator. Cost $30. If you had the 3 panels, you would be generating > 2.5 amps in clear sunlight for around $330.

I tie these on the boom when the sail is furled and lead a cord down into the salon where I have prepared a connection to the regulator and a socket to my charging system. The flexible panels are cool, they are laminated on a vinyl backing. You can bend these around curves, keep them pointed to the sun. Throw them on the bow, or put them anywhere they're out of the way. They are tough enough that you can walk on them. After a night on anchor, my batteries were fully charged by noon (with 2 panels). They generated significant current even on a cloudy day without direct sunlight!

Wind generators have a lot of problems on boats of our size. They make noise and vibration. They need a strong, permanent mount. The blades can have a large diameter - it makes mounting a serious problem. It takes a lot of wind to produce current. In too much wind they must be taken down.

Here's where you can buy them cheaper than Sailnet (a store here in San Diego but they ship worldwide).

http://www.solarelectricinc.com/

<img src="http://www.indiscipline.org/cat25/pictures/icon.jpg" border=0>Indiscipline 1978 FK #398

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MikeM
1st Mate

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72 Posts

Response Posted - 07/07/2003 : 15:19:41

I agree with Jim. You best bet is a solar panel. I have the same Unisolar Flexible Panel - 11watt and it works great. Be sure to use a regulator to avoid an over charge.

I wrap mine around the boom and actually lock it down since there is four grommet holes, one on each corner.

My boat is on a mooring so we do not have any shore power. This panel along with my alternator keeps the battery charged all summer long.

http://www.unisolar.com/

Mike M
Marblehead, MA
C25 #1212

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77Gypsy
Captain

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USA
356 Posts

Response Posted - 07/08/2003 : 19:15:40

wow! i think you both convinced me, it sounds like a good idea. a good addition to the ever growing "to-do" list.

Steve
78 C25 SR/FK - Gypsy
<img src="http://www.websdf.com/logo.jpg" border=0>

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Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.