Thursday, May 17, 2012

Rectifier, Brake Box


The generator produces 3phase AC voltage (alternating current), but storing the electricity in batteries requires DC voltage(direct current). The job of the rectifier is to convert the electricity from ac to dc.
The output wires from the generator are fastened to the 3 connector terminal block on the left side of the photo. Each terminal is 1 phase of the 3 phase output. 
From here 3 individual wires travel up to a charge/freewheel/brake switch mounted through the front panel. This is a high amperage switch that allows the user to control the flow of electricity from the turbine. The emergency brake function of this switch is a critical feature allowing the turbine to be "stopped" for regular maintenance or emergency situations.
From the switch the electricity flows to three single phase rectifiers mounted on a large aluminum heat sink. This is where the conversion from ac to dc takes place. Leaving the rectifiers the wires terminate at a 2 connector terminal block, this is where the charge controller will connect to.

Three position, nine pole switch.

Single phase rectifier.

 Note; the picture below is to show a rectifier and heat sink together. It is not the one being used in this wind turbine. This is a single, 3 phase rectifier, the turbine uses three single phase rectifiers allowing for simple, low cost repairs. And in the event that one unit fails, there will still be output, only at a reduced level.


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