My first wind diy experiment

[Sia MenSiS]

Hi, this is my first post, I need to jump right in, I hope that is ok.

I am looking to do a little home experiment creating my own wind turbine, I am looking for a really small DC motor, I just need some info on this.

What would the best motor to play with that requires the least effort regarding air yet pushes out the best power?
I'm looking for something cheap but good.

Many thaks in advance.

[Rob Beckers]

Hi Sia,

On the very small end of the spectrum: There are education wind turbine kits that are great for showing how it works to kids. For example Amazon.com: Thames & Kosmos Wind Power 2.0: Toys & Games

If you are looking for something that actually puts out useful energy it gets a whole lot more complicated.

-RoB-

[Brian McGowan]

One suggestion is a stepper motor from an old printer. If you are willing to go a little bigger I have heard people use the DC motors that drive treadmill, again salvaged from an old treadmill.
Brian

[Caleb Saseen]

I would suggest an cordless drill motor. If your just looking to play around you can open up a cordless drill and use that motor grab some 5 gallon buckets and build a vertical axis wind turbine. Very easy to do and tons of video to help you online.

After you get a little skilled at building these I would suggest switching to a PM motor like ones found in treadmills.

[Alton Root]

good effort Sia..
i think you can find DC Motor online...

[Josh Pal]

Hey Sia,

Good luck with the project. There is a startup company that I have read about, not positive where they are based out of but they are offering a pretty affordable wind turbine (https://greenledliving.com/wind-turbine-that-powers-your-home-for-a-lifetime-for-under-1000/) for residential purposes. It is supposed to be under $1000 dollars and last I heard it was launching sometime later this year.

I know you were taking more of a DIY approach but this is a route that looks pretty promising in the future!

Good luck on your project,
Josh