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AIR 403 Land Manual Document #0049 REV D
SOUTHWEST WINDPOWER 8/20/2001 39
#12 Will it not short my batteries when I use a stop switch?
When a single pole, double throw switch that is rated for proper current and voltage
is connected as shown in the manual, the turbine positive is disconnected from the
batteries BEFORE being connected to negative. It is important that your stop switch
be of the type that opens the circuit between positions. This is commonly referred to
as a “break-before-make” switch.
#13 How do I know the AIR is charging?
For a precise indication of charge current you will need to install an amp meter in
your system. The meter or meter shunt should be installed in-line on the positive OR
negative wire. The meter should be located on the wiring between the stop-switch (if
used) and fuse or breaker. Southwest Windpower carries a 0-30A, analog (needle-
reading) meter that may be purchased direct if one is difficult to find in your area.
#14 I can measure a small amount of current back-feeding to my AIR. Is this normal?
The AIR 403 internal circuitry consumes a maximum of about 16 mA, or about the
same as a small clock. If you are concerned about this small amount, you can install
a stop switch and switch to “OFF” to disconnect the turbine.
#15 The open-circuit voltage of my AIR is far above my batteries. Is this normal?
When connected to batteries, the AIR spins freely until it reaches the battery voltage.
When the voltage of the turbine rises above battery voltage, current (amps) begins to
flow, as current is a function of a difference in voltage. The greater the difference in
voltage, the greater the current is.
If no battery is connected, then the turbine will continue to increase in voltage
(provided there is sufficient wind) until almost double the rated voltage is reached. At
this point the Autobrake is engaged and the turbine slows down. For a 12V turbine
this happens at about 23V.
It should be noted that, when the turbine is open circuit (not connected to batteries),
the Autobrake will slow the blades, and the voltage from the turbine will drop. The
Autobrake will release until the blades spin up again, and then re-engage. This leads
to an oscillation that is more strenuous on the turbine than normal operation. For this
reason you must short the positive turbine output wire to the turbine negative wire
whenever it is not connected to a load to achieve the maximum life from your turbine.
If you observe your turbine oscillating in the manner described above, check the fuse
or breaker for the turbine as it may be expired.
#16 I’m not ready to attach my wires to the batteries. Can I simply leave the AIR wires
unattached?
Always short the AIR negative to positive when it is disconnected from your system,
and the blades are installed. BE SURE NOT TO SHORT YOUR BATTERIES! The
turbine will prevent itself from over-speeding and over voltage, but as explained
above, this is a high-wear condition for the turbine and should not be left that way for
any substantial amount of time.
#17 I have multiple turbines installed on my system, and they seem to function
erratically. Why is this?
Check your wire sizes to be sure they are at least as big as those specified in your
AIR 403 manual (bigger is always better, but more expensive.) Be sure all of your
