Electricity Systems

Submitted by admin on 31 May, 2008 - 10:23.

Doug's recent photo posts about solar/battery/inverter, what I am working on for the Geek Ranch and what I did for backup power in my house inspired me to add this section to the Appropriate Technology book. This is intended to be a header page for some sub-sections. I envision them including some specifics on batteries, solar panels, wind generators, hydro, ... plus some specific examples. Note that there is another page for links. This is for our own first-hand contributions.

Also, this is a book of information. If you have input on the specifics of something, fine, add a comment. But, if you just want to chat about something, please put that in a forum (or your blog) instead. Thanks.

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Electrical Engineering

Submitted by randude101 on 11 September, 2008 - 11:18.

I have only been a member of this sight for a month or so and FYI just informed me of this section. I am an electrical engineer that has been designing ships, airplanes, and factories almost 30 years. I would like to contribute to the site. First, I understand from many of the post that I have read here that many of your readers prefer to live a more simple life and for that reason have selected Nicaragua as their home. Of course it is more complicated than that, everything is. There is a book out there called Living on 12 Volts with Ample Power by David Smead. This book is about living off of the grid and does so by charging batteries. Charging batteries is the most cost effective and independent way to have power when you are not living on the grid or have problems with the grid. David's book is interesting, fun and written for layman. I highly recommend it. I will try to answer any and all questions publicly or privately the best that I can or at the least point you in the correct direction for research and clear up any questions that may spawn. My background is in Ships, Planes, and Factories, but the lion’s share of my experience comes from ships. I can help with power creation, distribution and control systems. I do not have enough radio frequency background to really help anyone, I am sorry. I have a vast understanding of machinery though, engines, motors and the like.

Quality

Submitted by randude101 on 11 September, 2008 - 13:18.

I have been buying products (Specify=Buying) for commercial and industrial use. This means that the customers have more money to spend on products than the average Joe. I would often buy a product with warranty and other after purchase support considerations above actual cost. I can assist with system design and that would include what types of products to use (i.e. deep cycle versus starting batteries). I do not have enough reliable information to speak for the quality of all of the electrical products that exist. If I were going to consider buying a product for myself I would take the various names and model names of equipment that I am considering and try some searches in google to see what people are saying about them. Nothing beats doing that kind of research for yourself because you can see your specific concerns addressed.

excellent book

Submitted by Doug on 11 September, 2008 - 11:58.

and Ample Power is a good source for quality components and complete systems. I have a 6Hp Lister clone diesel and a 5KW Chinese ST generator head to mate to it, this combination is rather popular with the DIY crowd. A couple members of the Yahoo groups I belong to have 'de-rated' these 600 rpm engines to run at approximately half speed for light load battery charging, tuning the load to the reduced output and claim some very impressive low fuel consumption. -Doug ©

If you're not part of the solution, you're part of the precipitate

Battery choices

Submitted by dirtbag on 11 September, 2008 - 12:08.

On the subject of Battries. Partcularly deep cell Battries, not something I know a lot about, hence the question. What and where, would you recommend for a source of good quality,long life Battery products? People tell me that Chinese have a pretty good handle on the Manufacturing but the quality leaves a lot to be desired. I know that Mining Companies use a lot of Battries and buy in bulk and have been told if one could somehow associate with a mining company that would be a good idea for supply. What is the Skinny on Battries?

P.S. I realise this may not be the right section to ask

Submitted by dirtbag on 11 September, 2008 - 12:21.

but if there is any input, answers, I think my question could be edited and the section would be enhanced by a "Bullet" on Battries.