Do-it yourself windmill (open source project): 3 phase 20-200 watts

[John Poole]

See http://www.earthtechling.com/2011/03...s-open-source/
where there is a guide to build your own windmill and build the alternator all from local parts -- though you have to buy magnets and specialized coated wire to make the armature for the alternator.

Produces 50-200 watts of power in a windy period with gusts reaching up to 20 MPH.

So 1 HP at 746 watts with my planer being 3 HP, I calculate I'd need 18 of these to run on a windy day to power my planer.

Do they make 3 phase light bulbs? <joke>

Joking aside, this is an intriguing project for the do-it yourselfers, and the concept of the project being "open source" seems a novel approach.

Highly recommended reading for those who tinker and like to build things.

[Derek Gilmer]

I'm taking one with me to meetings. I'll get 300 watts at least with the massive currents of hot air in there