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AIR 403 Land Manual Document #0049 REV D
SOUTHWEST WINDPOWER 8/20/2001 38
#4 How does the AIR control power and RPM in high winds?
The AIR uses a unique rotor blade made of carbon fiber-reinforced thermoplastic. As
the wind reaches approximately 40 mph (17.9 m/s), aerodynamic forces cause the
blades to twist and the rotor to stall. This is a passive function that slows the rotor to
protect it.
#5 Why do I hear an unusual noise when wind speed nears 40 mph?
This noise occurs when the aeroelastic twisting blades reach a deep stall. The noise
is normal and protects your AIR in high winds. If this high wind noise is undesirable,
stop the turbine by shorting the turbine wires or through the use of a stop switch.
#6 What is the maximum wind speed the AIR will survive, and do I need to take it
down in a storm?
NEVER approach the AIR or any turbine in strong wind conditions. The AIR is
designed to run without attention in storm conditions; however, if you wish to shut
down the turbine you can do that remotely as described in Section 3.1.5 on page 12.
The AIR is rated to 100 mph. If you expect higher winds, shut down the turbine and
either lash down the blades or remove the hub and blade set.
#7 How long will the bearings or other wearing parts last?
According to engineering calculations, the bearings should have a 10-year life in 12-
mph (6 m/s) average wind speed sites. Bearing life will vary from one application to
another; however, you should expect at least a five-year performance in adverse
conditions and 10 years in normal conditions.
The copper brushes should last a lifetime. The yaw shaft has been tested to over
100,000 revolutions with no visible wear on the brushes or slip rings.
#8 Why is there a cut-out in the tail?
The cutout helps to balance the AIR on its turning axis to better track the wind and to
give it stability in rough seas. This balance keeps the turbine pointed into the wind
even when the boat is heeled over. Since the turbine is properly balanced, more
power can be extracted from the wind no matter how slight or directionally unstable.
Installation
#10 Can the AIR be connected in reverse-polarity to the battery without causing any
damage?
NO! If you connect the turbine in reverse-polarity to the battery you will damage the
turbine and void your warranty. Make sure to connect the positive (red) wire to the
positive post on the battery, and connect the negative (black) wire to the negative
battery post.
#11 Will it hurt my AIR to short-circuit the output?
No, the AIR 403 is designed to be short-circuited as a normal shutdown procedure.
The function of the stop switch is to both disconnect the turbine from the batteries as
well as short-circuit the output of the turbine. BE SURE NOT TO SHORT YOUR
BATTERIES!
