Hydroelectric 5 Gallon Bucket Generator

[Maverick]

The title pretty much explains what this is, Link: http://backup-disaster-recovery.cilcks.com/bdr/hydroelectric-generator/
Build PDF: http://backup-disaster-recovery.cilcks.com/5-Gallon-Bucket-Build-Manual.pdf



Since I have old truck generators, voltage regulators, batteries and 120v 800w inverters already here cutting down cost as listed in the PDF, besides, the generator I have wouldn't be as delicate as the one listed in parts as far as RPM restrictions.

I get about, summer/winter low flow: 500 CFS - winter/spring high flow: 3500 CFS so, even at 500 CFS I should be able to easily maintain 600-750RPM using a 4" O.D. turbine

 

[Graynomad]

What a great idea, pitty there's no permanent surface water where I live.

 

[Wiredog8]

Pretty damn neat.

 

[Brent S]

The title pretty much explains what this is, Link: http://backup-disaster-recovery.cilcks.com/bdr/hydroelectric-generator/
Build PDF: http://backup-disaster-recovery.cilcks.com/5-Gallon-Bucket-Build-Manual.pdf

View attachment 3028

Since I have old truck generators, voltage regulators, batteries and 120v 800w inverters already here cutting down cost as listed in the PDF, besides, the generator I have wouldn't be as delicate as the one listed in parts as far as RPM restrictions.

I get about, summer/winter low flow: 500 CFS - winter/spring high flow: 3500 CFS so, even at 500 CFS I should be able to easily maintain 600-750RPM using a 4" O.D. turbine

I couldn't download either site. Started loading and stopped. I'll try later on. I built the ram pump from the Clemson university design a little while ago. It did pump water but I don't have enough elevation drop for it to pump as high as I wanted, only made it about half way. I ended up trading it for 4 old wagon wheels with a friend. I have a good water flow in both creeks, so I really want to utilize some source of generating ability from them. My biggest problem is distance. My big creek, about 12ft wide, is way, way back from the house. I'm afraid the voltage drop, and especially with DC, will be too hard to overcome. My front creek is only 10 or 12" wide, so generation from it is limited. One thing I am considering is a system to use the water to cool the house with. The creeks are about 60 degrees Fahrenheit. I'm wondering about a truck radiator and a fan? Have to figure out if condensate will be an issue, as I don't want moist air in the house. It would be nice to have the money to get a solar setup that could run everything, but it just isn't a reality for me. So the next best thing is to have smaller, multiple ways to help generate as much self reliant ability as you can.