Q for DanB

[solarengineer]

I can't seem to find the post now, but you showed the 20ft machine had some rubbing from the front rotor.

Is it possible that the plates flexed during yaw and caused them to strike?

I remember you saying the bearing was ok so I thought I would ask. I've lost a few machines because of rubbing and I'm really trying to avoid it.

Thanks!

wondering if I need to use thicker plates on my next one or not.

Jamie

[DanB]

Hi -

No - I don't believe the plates are flexing and half inch steel is fine.

If anythings flexiing it might be the allthread between the plates although I expect thats probably not a big issue either -(maybe - well know for sure if the front rotor/blades fall off ;-)  ).

I think it had more to do with less than ideal adjustment of the stator - too tight an airgap and bearing play.  It's not been an issue since the last time we took it down/adjusted things and we've had some very high winds.

[BigBreaker]

Have ever thought about using teflon bushings in the stator to protect it if the all thread starts shifting?  The bushings would press against the rotor plate if the stator threatened to rub.

It would be a tight fit.  You'd want the bushings disengaged in normal operation but close enough to the plate surface to apply significant pressure as the all thread deforms.