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AIR 403 Land Manual Document #0049 REV D
SOUTHWEST WINDPOWER 8/20/2001 12
A ground electrode can be made for systems without an existing system ground from an 8 ft.
(2.4 m) section of 3/4" (19 mm) galvanized pipe or conduit, or an 8 ft. (2.4 m) section of 5/8"
(16 mm) iron or steel rod. This ground electrode must be buried completely beneath the soil,
at no more than 45 degrees from vertical, or horizontally at least 2 1/2 ft. (75 cm) beneath
the surface. It is recommended that the ground electrode be installed as close as possible to
the batteries for maximum lightning protection. The base of the tower is also a good location
for an appropriate surge arrestor.
Delta manufactures surge arrestors for lightning protection, such as their model LA 302-RG.
Contact: Delta Lighting Arrestors P.O. Box 750, Big Springs TX 79721, Phone (915) 267-
1000 Fax (915) 267-1035 or your dealer for more information.
3.1.4 Fusing
The AIR 403 is capable of producing high amperages. As with all electrical installations, you
must protect each of your turbines with a properly sized fuse or circuit breaker. The AIR 403
should be wired with an appropriately sized “slow-blow” type fuse between itself and the
batteries. If a stop switch is used, the fuse should be placed between the switch and the
batteries.
Recommended Size for Circuit Breakers or Slow-Blow Fuses
•= 12-volt model: 100 amps D.C.
•= 24-volt model: 50 amps D.C.
•= 36-volt model: 35 amps D.C.
•= 48-volt model: 25 amps D.C.
3.1.5 Stop Switch
A stop switch must be used with your AIR 403 to provide a convenient method for shutting
down the turbine. A 50-amp single-pole double-throw switch will work as a stop switch for
most applications. These switches are available from Southwest Windpower and should be
wired as shown in Figure 2. The switch disconnects the battery and then shorts the turbine
causing the turbine to stop spinning (in high winds the blades will spin slowly). Shorting the
turbine will not cause any damage or additional wear. This type of switch should not be used
in applications where a code compliant switch is necessary, or for 12V turbines used in very
high wind applications.
NOTE: The center post must be positive from the turbine. Outside posts can be swapped
as either battery positive or battery/turbine negative.
