Wind Generators

[tom baker]

Are DC wind generators alternators with either a mechanical commutator or solid state rectifier? Is the output DC or AC
Wouldn't the smaller generators be pure DC like the old automotive generators?

 

[K8MHZ]

Are DC wind generators alternators with either a mechanical commutator or solid state rectifier? Is the output DC or AC
Wouldn't the smaller generators be pure DC like the old automotive generators?

I haven't seen all of them, but I'll bet they are rectified 3 phase alternators just like cars.

Old automotive DC generators are no longer used for a good reason. They require more material for the same amount of output, thus are larger and heavier, and also have a very low output at low speeds, compared to an alternator. Also, there is no way to make a brushless DC generator.

The Swifts are 3 phase with a permanent magnet rotor. It is a brushless design. There are slip rings, but that is to keep a connection as the turbine is moving with the wind.

That doesn't mean a person couldn't make a wind turbine using an old style generator. But for commercial applications, the alternator design is the best.