Wind Generator Comparison ?

[Bob Pullen HC-33 1981]

Would anyone know of any link where there is good comparison data on wind generators made for sailboats? Are there any sailors who would be so kind to rate theirs, or suggest the best option (with noise, price, amps in 10-15knot winds, as primary criteria)?Many thanks for all suggestions or info.Bob aboard S/V SeanoritaHunter 1981 33ft Cherubini

 

[sailaway78]

Wind Generators

There seems to be one drawback or another to almost all of them. I had a 250 watt rig on the S2, that Katrina destroyed. ( Broke the mast and put the entire unit in the water.) It was built by a guy in Canada, and was priced right. Can't find him now, and don't think that 250 is big enough for the new boat anyway. Will probably go with an Air X, as their noise problem has supposedly been fixed. Have read that they do have some radio interferance when charging. Still seems to be the best bang for the buck. The wind buggers are probably better, but a lot more pricey. Lots of others out there, but some appear to be cheaply made, and others are so ugly I wouldn't want one of them on my boat.

 

[DannyS]

Practical Sailor

The most recent issue of Practical Sailor made reference to a test currently underway. Look for the results in an upcoming issue.

 

[camaraderie]

here's a chart...

Here's a chart from 4 winds covering a lot of models over a range of wind speeds. Bearing in mind the source...it should still be relatively true. FWIW...I had one of theirs and got close to the output claimed. http://www.fourwinds-ii.com/v2/?c=library&i=windGenComp

 

[John Nantz]

Some comments

For info, I have a Rutland 810 that I've had for several years now. It's a 6-blade model with a diameter of about a meter and I like it for our longer trips.Noise: The mast setup, for me, was a factor in really reducing noise. The wind generator itself made only a slight wind-noise when running and was not an issue as there were other noises from rigging, ect. that were louder. The mast setup I have now is on the stern and the main post is attached to the stern rail with a couple diagonals using 1-inch stainless tube also to the stern rail. The current setup works fine and I remove it during the off season. The former mast setup telescoped noise down into the boat - the newer setup doesn't.Brushes: If it has brushes it would be a good idea to be able to service the brushes yourself.Regulator: you'll need one of these too.Output: One thing that matters when comparing output with wind speed is what wind speed you need to be able to actually start charging. Some people judge a wind generator based on when the blades start turning so don't make that mistake. What's more important is what wind speed you need to start actually charging at, say, 13v or so. Sailing to windward is really great for charging!!!I like the wind generator and also have two 130W solar panels with a Blue Sky solar controller.

 

[Bob Pullen HC-33 1981]

Wind Generators Comparison - Pictures from John?

Hi John,Any chance of getting some photos of your current setup, where the noise has been reduced? Many thanksBob