jim baughn k9eoh. preview fuel sources power generators capturing and using generated power solar...

Jim BaughnK9EOH

PreviewFuel SourcesPower GeneratorsCapturing and Using Generated PowerSolar Power ExpansionSafetyQuestions

Fuel SourcesGasolineDieselPropaneGasification

GasolineFill containers to about 95%Cap containers tightlyOnly use gasoline containersStore out of direct sunlight at about 80 DegreesDo not store near an ignition source (gas

furnace or water heater for example.)Use a stabilizer or use gasoline regularly (once

a month test of the generator for example.)Don’t have all containers empty when the power

goes out!

DieselEnsure that the fuel is not in contact with any surfaces

containing zinc or copper or compounds containing those metals (eg. Brass).

Establish a regular fuel maintenance program to ensure that water and dirt is removed from storage tanks. This will also remove any chance for fungus to grow.

Water should be drained from the storage tanks weekly. The frequency can be extended if the tank shows no tendency to collect water but should be done at least monthly.

Tanks should be kept full to reduce the space for water to condense.

Regularly turn the fuel over. If possible, plan the fuel usage so that it will all be used within 1-5 years and replaced with fresh fuel.

PropaneStore in a well ventilated areaStore way from any ignition sourceStore so the relief valve is in direct contact

with the vapor. Standard propane tanks should be stored vertically.

GasificationA method of converting wood to gas much like

propane.A fire is buildA tank, with a ‘nozzle’, containing wood scrap is placed

in the fireThe wood goes thorough a process producing syngas.The resulting vapor can then piped to an engine set up to

run gas vapor.For more information:

http://www.global-greenhouse-warming.com/support-files/handbook_of_biomass_downdraft_gasifier_engine_systems.pdf

http://www.windmeadow.com/files/fema_wood_gas_generator.pdf

Wood GasifierAs on ‘The Colony’

Power GeneratorsFuel Driven generatorsWind generatorsHydroelectric generatorsSolar Power Generation

Fuel Driven GeneratorsFuel can be gasoline, propane or gasified

biomassThey can be manually started (pull rope)Electrically startedAuto started

AC Generators

Ground System

Wind Generators

Indiana Wind Power

Hydroelectric GeneratorsMicro Hydro

10 feet of fall with 20 gallons/minute 40 Watts100 Feet of fall with 100 gallons/minute 1100

WattsIf you plan to dam a stream, even on your

own land, be prepared for lots of red tape.Mechanically you will be cleaning out debris

from the screensAs long as the water runs, electricity will be

generated 24/7

Solar PowerPhotovoltaic cells

You can make your own panels at about 1/3 the cost of commercial panels

Sun heated systems that turn a steam turbineMechanically complex

Power is being generatedHow do we capture it safely?

Solar Power Expansion

Battery SizingSeveral battery sizing calculators on internetFactors to enter:Total DC load with Current and Voltage per dayTotal AC load in Watt Hours per daySurge Current – Not always considered by calculatorsSunlight factor – depends on location on earth and

seasonNumber of days expected to run on battery power

aloneBattery considerations

Type of BatteryAH rating and voltageMaximum discharge percentage

Search for ‘solar battery sizing worksheet’

Save Energy (Only 45.95)

SafetyBatteries under charge emit hydrogen (remember

the Hindenburg?)Do not place arc producing items above the

batteriesFuse the batteries close to the batteries with DC

fusesUse the proper size cablesTyewrap cables togetherKeep AC away from DC in separate breaker boxes

Use AC breakers for AC onlyUse DC breakers and fuses for DC only

Questions?