Micro wind turbine

[Waco Bill]

I have a AC 3 phase .1-1.0 amp 3v-24v generator turned by a 15 inch propeller. I have been using it to light up LEDS....a light up back-yard whirly-gig. My LEDS (10mm 30000 MCD) burn out after about a couple of hours of good wind. Electrical output varies with the wind. My question is...what type of diode do I need to keep the LED bulbs from burning out?

 

[(*steve*)]

you need to limit the maximum current which can flow through the LEDs.

If they are high power LEDs (1W and above) then you will also need a heat sink to prevent them from getting too hot even at the normal operating current.

If you look at our resource on LEDs you will find a simple constant current circuit that you could use.

 

[(*steve*)]

oh, you also need to protect the LEDs from reverse voltage. Are you rectifying the output of your generator?

 

[Waco Bill]

Sorry Im ignorant when it comes to electronics but I trying to learn. Ive had the generator wired directly to the LED is a10mm 30000 MCD. Trying to keep it simple....I thin I may need abridge rectifier?

 

[BobK]

You need more than that. Please read the resource Steve referred to:

https://www.electronicspoint.com/resources/got-a-question-about-driving-leds.5/

Bob

 

[(*steve*)]

a bridge rectifier would be a good start.

however, also check the maximum current for the LED. It's likely to be way less than 1A.

Thanks Bob, I wrote the above and failed to post it. Your answer may be better