Prop-Driven Generator Captures Water Power

Prop-Driven Generator Captures Water Power ENERGY Alternative Fuels 26-2-31 Any stream of water at least a foot deep and running at more than 2 mph can provide reliable low-level power with an Aquair UW Submersible Generator. Developed to keep batteries charged on towed barges in the North Sea oil field, the Aquair can produce up to 2.4 kwh per day. Running 24 hours per day at 6 amps per hour, that's enough to power a small refrigerator or other similar appliance or run a number of lights, says Jack Scenge, Jack Rabbit Energy Systems, importer of the Aquair UW. " If you have modest needs, such as a vacation cabin, it can back up pretty near the whole thing," says Scenge. "We have one customer with six units in one stream." The sealed unit is oil filled. A shroud can be placed around the standard 12 1/2-in. dia., three-bladed prop if weeds or fishing lines are a problem. A propeller guard can also be added to protect the unit from floating debris. A smaller prop also is available for higher speed flows. Scenge suggests anchoring the unit from shore or mounting it in a length of culvert pipe to create a Venturi effect. Placing timber, rocks or other material to divert water towards the unit will also create a more rapid flow. Each mph of stream flow produces about an amp, according to Scenge. "The important thing is for the stream to be near the energy shed or the end use," he says. "The farther away from the stream, the bigger the wire cable has to be. Most of our customers have been within a couple hundred feet, and 8-10 gauge wire is enough." Scenge hasn't heard of any situations where special permits or approvals are needed to mount the submersible; however, it may be a good idea to check with your state Department of Natural Resources before investing in a unit. The $995 cost for the generator and voltage regulator can buy quite a bit of electricity. Yet, if the only alternative is bringing in electrical service, it may make sense. And the unit is portable so you can move it between locations. Jack Rabbit Energy Systems sells a complete line of inverters, batteries and other energy accessories. Contact: FARM SHOW Follow-up: Jack Scenge, Jack Rabbit Energy Systems, 425 Fairfield Ave., Stamford, Ct. 06902 (ph 203 961-8133; fax 203 961-0382; E-mail: jackrabbitenergy@worldnet.att.net; Website: www.jackrabbitmarine.com).

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