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Forum Index : Windmills : Charging Voltage
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SteveL Newbie Joined: 27/03/2013 Location: AustraliaPosts: 5 |
Hi all. I’m chasing an answer on a possibly a simple topic. When testing my newly build F&P windmill I find that in varying winds the voltage ranges from 12 volts (light winds) to 90 volts (high winds) quiet easily. I have measured this with a multimeter with no load. If this is connected to 48 volt battery system, can I assume that the voltage will not go as high (90 volts) as high winds. For example: would it stabilise around 55 volts and any increase in wind speed from this point will increase current and maintain a constant voltage. How does this relationship work when the mill voltage matches the batterage voltage? (charge starting pont.) I guess I’m asking what protects the batteries from over voltage or is this not a concern as the load from the motor will govern rotational speed of the mill. Thanks, |
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Gizmo Admin Group Joined: 05/06/2004 Location: AustraliaPosts: 5078 |
Hi Steve Short answer, yes. Once the F&P voltage goes above the battery voltage, current will flow into the battery. The level of this current depends on how much faster the F&P spins, more wind = more amps. In reality there is much more to this, the current is not proportional to wind/rpm, etc. But for simplicity, your assumption is right. Protecting you batteries is important, and you need to use a charge controller. The charge controller monitors the battery state of charge ( usually by measuring the battery voltage ), and either dumps power out of the battery to stop them over charging, or diverts the windmill power away from the battery bank. Glenn The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago, the second best time is right now. JAQ |
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SteveL Newbie Joined: 27/03/2013 Location: AustraliaPosts: 5 |
Thanks Glenn |
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