"In any case, build what you feel comfortable with that's usually the best way to learn."
Speaking of which, I remember posts where you were kinda comfortable with stirling engines
Did you get that machined one done, I remember a post with pictures, I think that was yours. If you have some links to sterlings feel free to e-mail them.
I think it was you that got me interested in those also. Thanks.
I am looking into building more stuff this winter. How do you think this lenz is for ice and snow? What I been thinking about for a Hawt for a long time is cutting down 30gal plastic barrels. Probably just in half, 4 half barrel arms. Or would you think 1/4 would be better? Close to about 3' tall I geuss, maybe a little less. I do have at this time some floor shelving racks I can butcher. They are about 4' tall straight rectangular tubing, slots on one side. I am thinking 4'/2 is 2 foot arms, maybe a 1/4 barrel would bolt in nicely with one straight metal bar on an auto hub spindle and bearing?
My goal would be to chain/belt or friction drive a DC motor I think.
4 Half plastic barrels as arms in the wind, 3' high ( using barrel top and bottom for mount points). Using the 4' long steel shelving metal I might get into 5-6' dia machine here 3' tall. Using car spindle/bearings/rotor for the base it should be strong. If using car parts I would also be able to use the brakes maybe?
How much power would you expect from something like that in normal lower winds, and would using a large DC motor like 180V 15amp provide enough power in decent or low winds yet be good for higher winds also? I need to use some of the DC motors I have here and this might be a good project for one.
Other question, would I be better to cut the barels shorter in height to like 1' or 2', or leave at max hight of 3' ??