General Operation
Installation
Accessories
Wiring
Batteries
Radio Interference
General Operation
Why is the AIR so powerful for its size, weight, and
cost?
Almost every part of the turbine has been developed from
“the ground up” using 3-D computer models to help
analyze every element of the design. As a result, this
state-of-the-art turbine features the following:
The AIR-X is the only small battery charging wind
turbine that uses a microprocessor to track the cubic
power of the wind and adjust and stall the permanent
magnet (PM) alternator accordingly. Other PM alternators
are linear in their output and either stall or unload
the rotor blades making them very inefficient.
The AIR uses 12 Neodymium Iron Boron magnets, which are
the strongest magnets available in the world.
This is the first wind turbine to use blades with
advanced airfoils made of injection-molded
carbon-composite materials that meet the
strength-to-weight ratio requirements of this computer
assisted design.
The microprocessor controlled circuit and alternator
allows the turbine to self-regulate in high winds and to
automatically stop when the batteries are charged.
Most important, is the conviction and passion of our
team. While overcoming seemingly insurmountable
obstacles, together we have maintained our desire to
help change the world by providing quality renewable
energy innovations.
How does the AIR-X regulate my batteries?
The internal circuitry monitors the voltage at the
output of the turbine. When the maximum charging voltage
is reached (adjustable by the potentiometer on the side
of the turbine) the Autobrake is engaged. This cuts off
the turbine output, and the blades are braked to a slow
rotation. The Autobrake remains on until the voltage
drops to a level slightly below that of a fully charged
battery (12.75V for 12V, 25.5V for 24V) At this point
the Autobrake releases and the turbine resumes charging.
Can the output of my AIR be changed by the
potentiometer?
The AIR-X produces 100% of the power of which it is
capable according to the wind speed. The potentiometer
only changes the voltage setting at which the Autobrake
engages. Changing this setting will not increase the
ampere output of the machine but may overcharge your
batteries.
How do I adjust the regulator to stop charging at a
specific battery voltage?
Refer to Section 4.4 on page 22.
How does the AIR-X control power and RPM in high winds?
The microprocessor in the AIR-X constantly monitors
turbine RPM, and is programmed to stall the blades in
high winds. The blades are put into a low efficient
region which drops the turbine to roughly � of its peak
RPM. This allows the turbine to survive high wind events
with low mechanical stresses. Also, since the blades are
running inefficiently in stall mode, they are not
delivering substantial power to the electronics, and the
alternator and the power electronics remain cool in
stall mode. When the microprocessor senses that the wind
speed has dropped, it will release the AIR-X from stall
mode, and normal charging will resume.
What is the maximum wind speed the AIR-X will survive,
and do I need to take it down in a storm?
NEVER approach the AIR or any turbine in strong wind
conditions. The AIR is designed to run without attention
in storm conditions; however, if you wish to shut down
the turbine you can do that remotely as described in
Section 3.1.5 on page 12. The AIR is rated to 110 mph.
If you expect higher winds, shut down the turbine and
either lash down the blades or remove the hub and blade
set.
How long will the bearings or other wearing parts last?
According to engineering calculations, the bearings
should have a 10-year life in 12-mph (6 m/s) average
wind speed sites. Bearing life will vary from one
application to another; however, you should expect at
least a five-year performance in adverse conditions and
10 years in normal conditions.
The copper brushes should last a lifetime. The yaw shaft
has been tested to over 100,000 revolutions with no
visible wear on the brushes or slip rings.
Why is there a cut-out in the tail?
The cutout helps to balance the AIR on its turning axis
to better track the wind and to give it stability in
rough seas. This balance keeps the turbine pointed into
the wind even when the boat is heeled over. Since the
turbine is properly balanced, more power can be
extracted from the wind no matter how slight or
directionally unstable.
Installation
Can the AIR-X be connected in reverse-polarity to the
battery without causing any damage?
NO! If you connect the turbine in reverse-polarity to
the battery you will damage the turbine and void your
warranty. Make sure to connect the positive (red) wire
to the positive post on the battery, and connect the
negative (black) wire to the negative battery post.
Will it hurt my AIR to short-circuit the output?
No, the AIR-X is designed to be short-circuited as a
normal shutdown procedure. The function of the stop
switch is to both disconnect the turbine from the
batteries as well as short-circuit the output of the
turbine. BE SURE NOT TO SHORT YOUR BATTERIES!
Will it not short my batteries when I use a stop switch?
When a single pole, double throw switch that is rated
for proper current and voltage is connected as shown in
the manual, the turbine positive is disconnected from
the batteries BEFORE being connected to negative. It is
important that your stop switch be of the type that
opens the circuit between positions. This is commonly
referred to as a “break-before-make” switch. Be sure to
install a fuse in any case.
How do I know the AIR is charging?
For a precise indication of charge current you will need
to install an amp meter in your system. The meter or
meter shunt should be installed in-line on the positive
wire. The meter should be located on the wiring between
the stop-switch (if used) and fuse or breaker. Southwest
Windpower carries a 0-30A, analog (needle-reading) meter
that may be purchased directly if one is difficult to
find in your area.
I can measure a small amount of current back-feeding to
my AIR. Is this normal?
The AIR-X internal circuitry consumes a maximum of about
20 mA when it is not charging. This is about the same
current draw as a small clock. If you are concerned
about this small amount, you can install a stop switch
and switch to “OFF” to disconnect the turbine.
If you observe your turbine oscillating in the manner
described above, check the fuse or breaker for the
turbine as it may be expired.
I’m not ready to attach my wires to the batteries. Can I
simply leave the AIR-X wires unattached?
Always short the AIR-X negative to positive when it is
disconnected from your system, and the blades are
installed. BE SURE NOT TO SHORT YOUR BATTERIES! The
turbine will prevent itself from over-speeding and over
voltage, but as explained above, this is a high-wear
condition for the turbine and should not be left that
way for any substantial amount of time.
I have multiple turbines installed on my system, and
they seem to function erratically. Why is this?
Check your wire sizes to be sure they are at least as
big as those specified in your AIR-X marine manual
(bigger is always better, but more expensive.) Be sure
all of your wire connections are very solid, have no
gaps, have no corrosion, and no crimp terminals are
used. If your turbines are at various distances from the
batteries, make sure turbines with longer wire runs have
bigger wires.
There will be some variation at what voltage turbines
will enter into regulation based on the relative wind to
which each turbine is exposed. Small differences in line
loss can be significant in strong winds.
Accessories
Where can I locate a stop switch?
If you want to install a stop switch it must be a 50-amp
or greater DC Single-Pole Double-Throw toggle switch
(see Section 3.1.5 on page 12). This can be purchased
from some automotive electrical repair shops, your
dealer, or from Southwest Windpower directly.
Can I use household AC fuses or breakers to fuse my AIR?
You should only use DC rated devices with your AIR-X, as
AC components are typically sized differently. Because
DC breakers and fuses in the required sizes may be hard
to find in your area, Southwest Windpower carries a 30A
and 50A breaker. You may purchase these from some local
dealers and distributors or from Southwest Windpower
direct.
Can I use an external charge controller to regulate my
AIR-X?
We recommend using only diversion load type charge
regulators with the AIR-X. These regulators divert
excess power to a heating element or power resistor when
the batteries are full. This excess power can be used to
assist in hot water or room heating. PV type regulators
should never be used. Series type regulators that
disconnect the power source when batteries are full will
often give undesirable results such as causing the
Autobrake to fluctuate on and off when the batteries
become full.
I just installed my AIR-X with an automotive style amp
meter, but I don’t see any current. How can this be?
Given that all wiring has been done correctly, and other
precautions have been heeded, chances are that the amp
meter is wired backwards and the needle is attempting to
move in the negative direction. If “zero” is on the
left-hand side of the meter, then the needle cannot move
and looks as if the unit is not producing. Simply
reverse the leads on the meter and see if current will
register.
Where can I locate tubing to make a tower?
The AIR-X marine uses 1 1/2” schedule 40 steel pipe.
(Actual outside diameter (O.D.) of the pipe is 1.875
inches, 48 mm) Steel pipe is available at any hardware,
fencing, or plumbing store. Aluminum pipe can be found
at most electrical hardware stores. Ask for electrical
aluminum conduit.
Wiring
The recommended wire sizes on your chart seem small for
400 Watts output. Why is that?
Because the output of the AIR-X follows the cubic power
in the wind, the output increases rapidly with
increasing wind speed until over-speed stall occurs and
the output power drops off to about 75 watts. The wiring
could be sized for the maximum current output of the
turbine, but this output is seen primarily in gusty
conditions.
We have recommended wire sizes that are intentionally
small to save the customer from spending a lot of money
on wiring, while still experiencing no more than a 5%
annual energy loss due to resistive line losses. In most
cases this will be acceptable for local electric codes –
please contact your installer or local electrician to be
certain of your area’s specific requirement.
What is the difference between copper and aluminum wire?
Aluminum wire is less conductive; so generally it must
be bigger for the same amp load and resistive losses as
copper. The AIR-X uses copper or tinned copper for the
yaw wires.
What is the difference between welding cable and
standard stranded cable?
Welding cable is typically very finely stranded to be
very flexible, where as standard cable will typically
hold its shape. Always be sure that the environmental
rating of the insulation of your power cable matches the
application.
Why does my AIR-X marine regulate before my batteries
are fully charged?
This can happen if the AIR-X is connected in parallel
with another charging source, and there is some distance
between this connection and the batteries. The other
charging source can create a voltage drop because of its
own current output, which will raise the voltage that
the turbine “sees”.
Be sure to check ALL of your wire connections. All
connections should be soldered, split bolted, or secured
in a terminal block. CRIMP-ON TYPE CONNECTORS MUST NEVER
BE USED! These are poor connectors for high currents and
will almost always have some resistance at the
male/female connection that will increase your voltage
drop and line loss.
How does wire sizing or voltage drop affect the
regulation of my AIR?
Due to the smart controller of the AIR-X, wire size
should not have a large effect on the regulation. The
AIR-X uses the power lines to sense battery voltage, but
before measuring the battery voltage, the AIR-X will
momentarily stop charging. This allows the turbine to
make a voltage measurement with no line loss in the
system. This is an improvement over the AIR 403 which
can only measure the battery voltage plus line loss in
the system. The voltage measurement routine takes place
periodically as the batteries approach the regulation
set point. Output is cut for a fraction of a second, and
the whole process will not be apparent from the outside.
It will not affect the net energy generation of the
turbine.
At a minimum, Southwest Windpower still recommends using
the wire size listed for your system in section 3.1.2 to
avoid power transmission losses.
Batteries
What kind of batteries should I use with my AIR?
Only batteries intended for power system applications
should be used. This means “deep cycle” type batteries,
and not the Marine deep cycle type as these are not
intended for the same application. Typically “true”
deep-cycle batteries will be rated in amp-hours and have
some indication of the number of charge-discharge cycles
that are available. Beware of the dubious claims of
“deep-cycle” claimed by the manufacturers of inexpensive
batteries.
Why shouldn’t I use automotive batteries in my DC
system?
Automotive batteries are meant to discharge a large
amount of current in a very brief time. The lead plates
are thinner and often porous to allow rapid discharge.
They will also wear faster and are not intended to be
discharged far below their normal voltage. True deep
cycle batteries are intended for more moderate loading
and deeper discharge, and are made with thicker, longer
lasting plates. The casing and construction of batteries
intended for renewable energy systems is typically much
tougher and of higher quality than automotive batteries.
Is lightning protection necessary?
Lightning protection is ALWAYS a good idea when erecting
a metal tower. The Delta Lightning Arrestor (model LA
301-DC) is widely used in outdoor power and antenna
applications. While this is still no guarantee that
Mother Nature wont find a way, these arrestors are not
very expensive and may save some very expensive
equipment.
Radio Interference
What effect does radio interference have on my AIR-X?
The internal circuitry of the AIR is shielded and
filtered to prevent radio interference, and has been
tested to insure electro-magnetic compatibility.
What effect does my AIR-X have on radio transmissions?
The AIR-X normally does not affect radio transmitters.
Care should be taken, however, to route power lines from
the AIR-X away from the power and antenna lines of a
radio transmitter. An old ham radio operator’s trick is
to twist positive and negative wires together to provide
an even distribution of EMF noise across both wires,
which serves to cancel out the electrical noise created.
This technique can be used on the AIR-X power lines, on
the radio’s power lines, and on transmission wires.
Transmission lines should always be kept as far from
power lines as is practically possible. Proper grounding
of the AIR-X and other system components must also be
observed.
Will it affect the regulation of my AIR-X to install an
RF (radio frequency) filter?
An RF filter should not affect the regulation of the
AIR-X, but any electronic devices placed in line with
the turbine must be rated for the proper current and
voltage. It is best to place any line filters on the
power lines for the load device (transmitter) that
requires it, and as close to the device as possible.
Skystream Hybrid 6 wind-solar system
increases energy production of the solar array
by up to 35 percent compared with a fixed mount
system. This helps offset changes in weather
through the seasons and delivers more overall
energy in many locations. Skystream Hybrid 6 is
based on the Skystream 3.7 wind turbine, which
is among the most highly tested and certifed
small wind turbines available.
Contact
US! For more Information and Specs email your
requirements.
Wind
Generators The all-new Air Breeze. Quieter, more efficient, and
precision engineered to deliver more energy at lower wind speeds than any
other wind generator in its class. The Air Breeze is the latest generation
of Air — with more than 100,000 sold in 120 countries — the world’s most
popular small wind generator
Small wind systems are used for individual homes and businesses that are
off-grid and grid-tie. A small off-grid wind system consists of a wind
turbine, which generates electrical power, a battery bank that stores the
power, and a Xantrex inverter. In many locations hybrid systems that include
solar panels and a generator are used to ensure a “round-the-clock”
electricity supply.
A grid-tie wind system may be as simple as a wind turbine and a Xantrex
grid-tie inverter. Depending on the amount of power being used by the
household, electricity is either fed to or accepted from the utility.
The wind turbine is placed on a tower at a height of up to 100 feet where
the rotor blades are exposed to faster and less turbulent wind. This enables
the turbine to produce the maximum amount of power. Usually, two or three
blades are mounted on a shaft connected to the turbine to form a rotor.
Wind blowing over the blades causes them to lift and rotate. This
rotation is used to spin a shaft inside a generator that converts the motion
into electricity for use in the house or business.
Wind is a completely renewable fuel source and produces no health risks and
no air pollution. For information on complete wind systems follow this link
to
Wind Generators
OkSolar The world's leading manufacturer of battery charging wind turbines
for remote homes, sailboats, recreational vehicles,
telecommunications, and hybrid systems offers a complete line of wind
turbines for virtually any application.
Skystream 3.7 is a breakthrough in a new
generation of RPA (Residential Power
Appliances) that will change the energy landscape of
how homes and small
businesses receive electricity. Skystream is the
first fully integrated system that
produces energy for less than the average cost of
electricity in the United Statesand
it produces usable energy in exceptionally low
winds.1 Skystream is available on towers ranging from 35 to
110 feet.2 Its universal inverter
will deliver power compatible with any utility grid
from 110-240 VAC.3 Skystreamwill
efficiently and silently provide up to 100% of the
energy needs for a home or small
business. Any extra energy is fed into the grid
spinning the meter backwards.4
Rated Capacity: 1.8 KW Rotor: 12 feet / 3.72 meters; 50325 RPM Alternator: Gearless, permanent magnet
brushless Voltage Output: 240 VAC (Optional 277 VAC) Estimated Energy Production: 400 KWh per
month at 12 MPH (5.4 m/s) Tower: Towers from 35-110 feet are available;
height is dependent by site
Skystream is currently available primarily
for North American grid configuration (220V/60HZ).
Additional international configurations (50HZ) will
be available, along with marine and battery charging
versions.
Product Datasheet – Skystream 3.7TM
The first small wind generator designed specifically
for grid-connected
residential use, Skystream 3.7TM from Southwest
Windpower lets Americans
harness wind energy and take control of their energy
bills like never before.
Specifically for Grid-Connectivity Skystream 3.7TM is specifically-designed for
grid-connected home and business
use. In certain states consumers can take advantage
of ‘net-metering,’ or the
sale of unused energy back to the power grid.
Low Cost
A wind power engineering breakthrough, Skystream
3.7TM is the first residential wind appliance to
produce
energy at a cost ($.09/kWh) that is lower than the
retail rate of many electric utilities. The cost of
a Skystream
3.7TM is approximately $5,100. Depending on the
tower and installation costs, wind speed average,
rebates
and local electricity costs, Skystream 3.7 can pays
for itself in as quickly as
4 years.
All-in-One Solution
Skystream 3.7TM offers a simple, all-in-one solution
to harnessing wind energy on a residential scale.
Different
from all other technologies, Skystream 3.7TM is the
first all-inclusive wind generator with the controls
and
inverter built in.
Energy Production in Exceptionally Low Wind
An Example from California
Designed for very low winds, Skystream 3.7TM begins
producing
power in an 8 mph breeze with full output achieved
at 20 mph
GRID-TIE WIND ELECTRIC SYSTEM
Be your own Electric Company!
Have you ever wanted to reduce your electric bill?
Now you can with your own Wind Electric Power
Station.
How it works:
When the wind blows, the grid-tie wind
electric system will save you money by
reducing your monthly electric bill, provide
power to your home during blackouts, and
help clean up the environment. The wind
electric system consists of a Southwest
Wind power Whisper H80 (1000 watt) or Whisper
175 (3000 watt) turbine fitted on a 24'-80'
tower.
Electricity is generated when the wind
blows. The power then goes through a small
battery bank into an inverter, and then into
the house.
What is included:
-1000 or 3000 watt Southwest Windpower Whisper wind
turbine
-A 24' - 80' foot tower (M.E. certified; Wet Seals
available)
-Xantrex/Trace Sine-wave utility-tie inverter
-Batteries for back-up system
-Utility switch box
-Battery system box
-Hardware and installation components
The house will use the electricity from the
system first, and if needed from the
utility. Depending on how the system is
constructed, it can even keep a portion of
the house operating when the electricity
from the power company goes down.
System A - 1000 watt system
A grid tie system with a Southwest Windpower
Whisper H80 wind turbine. One can expect to save
20% off their electric bill given and average
wind speed of 12 mph. Calculations are based on
a home using $100 per month of electricity at a
cost of $.12 per kWh
System B - 3000 watt system
A grid tie system with a Southwest Windpower
Whisper 175 wind turbine. One can expect to save 60%
off their electric bill given and average wind speed
of 12 mph. Calculations are based on a home using
$100 per month of electricity at a cost of $.12 per
kWh
*Savings depend on average annual wind speed, tower
height, electrical cost and average electric bill.
Is a grid-tie wind electric system right for me?
They are not for everyone. There are few factors
to consider prior to moving forward. These systems
require a tower that can take up a considerable
amount of area.
If the following conditions apply
I own my own home
My property is at least ½ an acre
My homeowners association or city/county does
not restrict towers
The average wind speed in my area exceeds 9 mph.
My utility allows "distributed" power systems
(please contact your State energy office for
allowances or
www.dsireusa.org).
Introducing the next generation AIR!
Southwest Wind power is pleased to introduce the latest evolution in small
wind turbines, the NEW AIR-X. The AIR-X builds upon what has made AIR the
world's number one selling small wind turbine with new technology
previously found only in today's state-of-the-art mega-watt-class wind
turbines. The AIR-X is our most expensive venture to date. Thousands of
hours of research and testing have gone into the design. Read some
testimonials from AIR-X marine owners who rave about the new quieter
design and improved performance.
Air-X
The AIR-X incorporates a new microprocessor based
technology that results in increased performance, improved battery
charging capability, greater reliability and the reduction of “flutter”
noise from the machine.
The controller allows for peak-power tracking of the wind by optimizing
the alternator's output on all points of the cubic curve and efficiently
delivers the energy to the battery. The turbine’s smart controller
allows it to actually control blade rotation speed thus eliminating the
buzzing noise commonly found with most small wind turbines.
Much Lower Noise: Previous AIR wind modules relied on their aero-elastic
blade design for protection in high winds. This caused a loud flutter
noise in winds above 35 mph (16 m/s). AIR-X’s circuit monitors the wind
speed and electronically slows the blades as it reaches its rated output
preventing it from going into flutter. This results in a much quieter
wind turbine. In high winds, the AIR-X will continue to produce power at
a reduced level until the wind decreases, at which point maximum
potential output will resume.
Improved battery charging: Previous AIR designs required 300-400 amp
hour battery banks so the trickle charge of the wind turbine could be
adequately absorbed. The AIR-X’s charge controller periodically stops
charging, reads the battery voltage, compares it to the voltage setting
and if the battery is charged, it completely shuts off all current going
to the battery. This function is performed within a few milliseconds.
The closer the battery is to reaching its full state of charge, the more
often the AIR-X’s circuit repeats this action. This means any size
battery bank from 25 to 25,000 amp hours or higher can be charged
safely. When the battery has reached its charged state, the AIR-X will
slow to an almost complete stop. Only when the battery has dropped below
its voltage set point will it startup and resume charging.
Air-X Marine
The AIR Marine incorporates a new microprocessor
based technology that results in increased performance, improved
battery charging capability, greater reliability and the reduction
of “flutter” noise from the machine.
The controller allows for peak-power tracking of the wind by
optimizing the alternator's output on all points of the cubic curve
and efficiently delivers the energy to the battery. The turbine’s
smart controller allows it to actually control blade rotation speed
thus eliminating the buzzing noise commonly found with most small
wind turbines.
Much Lower Noise: Previous AIR wind modules relied on their
aero-elastic blade design for protection in high winds. This caused
a loud flutter noise in winds above 35 mph (16 m/s). AIR-X’s circuit
monitors the wind speed and electronically slows the blades as it
reaches its rated output preventing it from going into flutter. This
results in a much quieter wind turbine. In high winds, the AIR-X
will continue to produce power at a reduced level until the wind
decreases, at which point maximum potential output will resume.
Improved battery charging: Previous AIR designs required 300-400 amp
hour battery banks so the trickle charge of the wind turbine could
be adequately absorbed. The AIR-X’s charge controller periodically
stops charging, reads the battery voltage, compares it to the
voltage setting and if the battery is charged, it completely shuts
off all current going to the battery. This function is performed
within a few milliseconds. The closer the battery is to reaching its
full state of charge, the more often the AIR-X’s circuit repeats
this action. This means any size battery bank from 25 to 25,000 amp
hours or higher can be charged safely. When the battery has reached
its charged state, the AIR-X will slow to an almost complete stop.
Only when the battery has dropped below its voltage set point will
it startup and resume charging.
Corrosion Resistance: Acid etched castings, double coated with
marine grade powder coat for superior protection from the
environment.
Air industrial
The Air Industrial is a wind turbine capable
of resisting the harsh environments that generally accompany
mountaintop repeater sites and off shore platforms. Southwest
Windpower's engineers spent two years in research with companies
such as Chevron, Texaco and Cellular One to design a product
capable of reliability producing power for remote sites.
Combining wind and photovoltaics in hybrid systems are quickly
becoming the standard in renewable energy installations. This is
due to seasonal fluctuations of both wind and solar energy
resources that make it an ideal combination.
Maintenance-free performance, easy installation, and high output
make AIR Industrial ideal for virtually any remote battery
charging application. Installations range from Alaska to
Antarctica.
Whisper Link 1000:
Enjoy the benefits of utility power while
reducing your electric bill every time the wind blows! It’s
been a dream of many homeowners and now it is possible. The
Whisper Link 1000 Watt system will reduce or even eliminate
your monthly electric bill.
The Whisper Link Concept
The Whisper 200 grid-tie concept is the lowest cost energy
producing home system on the market today. It can be
installed in an afternoon and depending on your wind speed,
a Whisper Grid Tie system will significantly reduce or even
eliminate your monthly electrical bill
Whisper 100
Formerly the Whisper H40, the Whisper 100 has been
updated for 2005 with new features and added flexibility
for your renewable energy system. Now, any Whisper 100
can have its voltage changed, 12-48V DC, within a few
minutes in the field. The Whisper 100 is designed to
operate in a site with medium to high wind speed
averages of 12 mph, 5.4 m/s, and greater. The 100
provides 100+ kWh per month, 3.4 kWh per day, in a 12
mph average wind. Worried about noise? The Whisper 100
is one of the quietest wind turbines ever tested by the
National Renewable Energy Labs. Click on the link above
for a copy of the noise data report
Whisper 200
Formerly the Whisper H80, the Whisper 200 has
been updated for 2005 with new features and added
flexibility for your renewable energy system. Now,
any Whisper 200 can have its voltage changed, 12-48V
DC, within a few minutes in the field. The Whisper
200 is designed to operate in a site with low to
medium speed averages of 8 mph, 3.6 m/s, and
greater. The 200 provides 200+ kWh per month, 3.4
kWh per day, in a 12 mph average wind. The Whisper
200 does produce more noise than it’s 100
counterpart, but it does produce almost twice the
power. Click on the link above for a copy of the
noise data report.
Whisper 500:
Serious power from a medium size small wind
turbine – The Whisper 500 can produce enough
energy to power an entire home. Formerly the
Whisper 175, the Whisper 500 was completely
redesigned in 2004 to work in harsh high wind
environments. The Whisper 500 is a two bladed
fiberglass reinforced blade and incorporates the
patented side furling design that optimizes
output at any wind speed. Assuming a 12 mph (5.4
m/s) wind, a Whisper 500 will produce as much as
500 kWh per month. That is enough energy to
power the average California home.
One of the most difficult challenges of the installation
of a wind turbine is assembling and erecting a tower. Fortunately, the
engineers here at Southwest Windpower have designed towers that are easy
and safe to install. A number of heights for each product are available.
Keep in mind, the larger the turbine the more complex the tower design.
None of the towers require any kind of welding or machining and only the
largest towers may require concrete. Most designs can be installed
within a few hours to a day. Lastly, all work with Southwest Windpower
towers is done on the ground.
You will NEVER need to climb a tower.
All of Southwest Windpower’s tower kits include everything you need
with the exception of:
1) Pipe material
2) Anchors
3) Power wires
To keep your costs low and to consider site variables, these
components should be purchased locally. When selecting the materials for
the construction of your tower, please consider the following:
Pipe Material: For most conditions, we recommend a
“schedule 40” pipe material. This offers a wall thickness of .125” which
is strong enough to resist most wind conditions. If you are using fence
pipe material, make sure you ask for “SS40”. If you live in an
environment were your winds will never exceed 80 mph (140 km) then we
suggest using a thinner wall material such as a “schedule 20”. In
conduit material, this is called “SS20”.
Anchors: The anchors are by far the most difficult part
of installing a tower. Once you have them in the ground, a tower
installation gets really easy. There are various soil materials that you
should consider prior to installing your tower. The type of anchor
should also vary. Our owner manuals have recommendations based on soil
type.
Power wires: Because of the size of turbine and
variable length from the turbine to your batteries/inverter, it is
impossible to know the proper wire size. Once you have understood the
distance from the turbine to the battery, refer to the wind turbine’s
owners manual for the proper wire size. Be sure to select the right type
of wire for your environment.
VERY IMPORTANT: Prior to the installation of your
tower, read the owners manual thoroughly and make sure you understand
the environmental conditions at your site prior to purchasing materials.
We offer manuals that are free to download and review prior to purchase.
Below we have made available all of our tower kit manuals so you the
user can gain a full understanding of how to install an AIR or Whisper
wind generator prior to purchase. If you have any questions, please
contact us or your local dealer.
Businesses and homeowners around the world are using OkSolar
systems
Integrated systems Solar, fuel Cells and wind
energy.
OkSolar products provide you with high-quality,
reliable,
"IQgreen" electricity as an alternative
to centralized power generation or combustion
generators. Your choices include grid-tie
systems for use in conjunction with utility
power, or off-grid systems for complete freedom
from the utility grid.
OFF-GRID for
Stand Alone Power OkSTA™
Everything in one complete package, meaning that they are
not connected to an electric utility.
Provide electricity beyond power lines. Stand-alone solar electric
power systems install easily for all types of standard or remote power needs,
systems add a battery backup for uninterrupted power during utility
blackouts or outages
.
A basic off-grid system consists of a
renewable energy source, which generates DC power, a battery bank that
stores the DC power, and a inverter. Our inverter is the
intelligent center of a renewable energy system, seamlessly converting
DC power to clean and reliable AC electricity for your needs.
The off-grid system pictured here is a solar electric hybrid system that
offers additional automatic features. It consists of solar panels, a
battery bank, our top-of-the-line Plus Inverter/Charger, a
charge controller that manages battery charging, and a generator.
We provide OEM energy solutions for military and government, as well as private sector applications, helping clients achieve 100% up-time for applications ranging from Hospitals, school warning signals to explosion proof street lights.Applications:
Commercial - Industrial - Disaster Relief - Military and Residential
OkSolar.com Affiliate
IP Video Anywhere Solar Powered!
Protecting Critical Government Infrastructure
Military and Homeland Surveillance
IP Video AnyWhere Solar Powered!
IP Video solutions are the next wave in CCTV surveillance. The ability to monitor your systems from anywhere, IP video solution.
Keep an eye on your critical facilities at all times.
With OkSolar’s IP Video Anywhere, you can monitor sites several thousand miles away as if they were across the street. Our system facilitates remote site surveillance through energy-independent operation and allows video to be transmitted over IP without any physical lines being installed. Companies with remote or hard to access assets, such as oil and gas pipelines, bridges or rural properties, have not had an effective, economical solution for protecting those assets. Some of the features like automated archiving allow you not only to track construction progress in real time but also to retrieve past images which can be used to resolve issues quickly.
Traffic Warning Signals
Our 12', 2 Head, Solar powered school warning flasher signal is the cost effective solution to your pedestrian safety problems. More Information > Traffic control lights, LED Traffic signals Manufacturer & Distributor, School Zone LED, School Zone LED flashing beacon, 24 7 hour led flashing beacon traffic, school zone, School warning signals, 24 hours warning Flashers, Road way warning signals, pedestrian crossing, railroad warning, ice on bridge warning, low water crossing, led beacons, speed awareness displays, Solar Powered Pedestrian Beacon, Pedestrian Beacons, 24/7 Flashing Beacon
SolarLighting
Complete turn key Systems Solutions for Solar Lighting
All components needed for installation are included (except for the mounting pole). The systems are designed for installation onto a wood, concrete, or metal mounting pole. You may choose to use your own pole or we can quote the poles separately from the lighting system itself.
These units can be used for: Area lighting, Billboards lighting, Dock lights, Park lighting, Parking lot lighting, Parkway lighting, walkway lighting, Street lighting, Transit Lighting, Outdoor area lighting
Complete turn key Systems Solutions for Solar LED Lighting
Solar Tree
We Delivered On-Site For Fast Plug and Pay Installation Solar Tree structure are designed for the following applications:
-Shading vehicles from the sun and at the same time generate Green energy.
-Facilitate the creation of infrastructure for electric vehicles.
One Solar Tree structure system shades eight standard parking spaces.One Solar Tree structure generates enough energy to fully charge eight electric vehicles each day or power Office Space, Industrial plants or a House. We Ship Worldwide in site technical support available.
Fuel Cell Are you tired of your devices being left in the dark, when your solar energy system stops providing power? Then IQ Fuel Cells are the perfect answer for you. Are now available as an alternative source for renewable energy. Unlike traditional power generators, they don't require gasoline to generate power. They also provide an alternative to solar generators because they do not depend on any external power gathering equipment. These units are compact, durable, and built to power a wide range of applications.
The Best Generator Ever!
Applications: Airports, Computer Rooms, Hospitals, Traffic, UPS
Smart designs with IQ Fuel Cells for smart energy applications Contact us today!
Battery Backup Systems for LED Traffic Signs Increase the public safety and reduced traffic congestion by allowing traffic lights to function even during a power failure. A typical traffic signal intersection experiences eight to ten local power outages annually. With IQUPS battery backup power, some or all the traffic control signals can continue to operate. This seamless switchover to battery power increases public safety and eliminates the need to dispatch police or other service personnel to direct traffic. If all traffic signals were converted to LEDs, the battery backup system would allow full operation of the traffic signals during a power outage, thus alleviating traffic congestion.
Important feature is the battery backup system’s ability to maintain the memory of the traffic signal controller. The controller is responsible for sequencing the on and off times of the various signals. With a battery backup system, the controller’s memory can be maintained and return to normal operation once the outage has ended. This feature has eliminated the time spent to reprogram controllers after a power outage
Traffic IQUPS It is designed to provide backup power for critical LED traffic light intersections. With 1,000 watts of true sinewave power available, IQFuel Cell and maintenance free Deep cycle batteries.
Traffic IQUPS will drive most large LED systems. Its pure sinewave output is cleaner than utility power, making it ideal for all loads.
Total distortion is typically less than 1.5%. Manufactured in the USA to the highest standards possible, Traffic IQUPS system is the best choice for critical load protection. power outage knocked out traffic lights, backup generators, emergency generator
Depending on the consumers needs, the IQFuelCell automatically charges the battery with up to 100 Ah per day. As independent power supply or in combination with other systems, the IQFuelCell runs self-sufficiently for months.
The circuit is fully protected via breakers and fuses on the AC input, connection to the batteries, and DC loads. Outdoor, lockable, aluminum enclosure includes tamper-proof hardware suitable for pole or wall mounting. DC.
IQAirport
Airport and Heliport landing back-up Battery Charger: 12Volts, 24 Volts, 36Volts, 48 Volts -120VAC or 230VAC Using state-of-the-art, switch-mode technology, the DLS Power Supply series is engineered with the user and variable environmental conditions in mind. Extra care has been given to insure many years of service-free operation, even when subjected to extremely harsh conditions. Batteries are charged quickly and efficiently without over charging and pumps, motors, and fans operate perfectly for prolonged life.
OkSolar.com has decided to adopt QR-Codes in our manufacturing process to streamline support and maintenance in all of our applications, resulting in savings for Government Agencies.
OkSolar.com Serving The Industry Since 1988.
All rights reserved. All trademarks or product names
mentioned herein are the property and responsibility
of their respective owners.
Credit Pictures provided by PIX along with DOE/NREL
