We like this unit because of its simple design and rugged construction. It was originally developed for use aboard seismic sleds which are towed behind oil exploration vessels. Unlike other micro-hydro units where head, flow and nozzle pressure are factors this unit simply requires a flowing stream, creek, river or sea, and simply gets lowered into the water.

Connect the Aquair to a battery and any 12 - 24v Trace inverter for continuous AC power at 2.5kWh per day with a 9 mph stream, creek or river flow.

The AQUAIR UW is solidly constructed from heavy aluminum castings. The top-grade aluminum propeller (impeller) is connected to the shaft with a stainless steel cap screw. It can be quickly and easily hammered back into shape if necessary. Mounting the Aquair UW can be left to your ingenuity, but a few guidelines are in order. Mount the AQUAIR in smoothly-flowing fast water near the bank or in a side flow where tree boles and debris cause less of a danger. Provide an upstream diversion that sweeps big stuff aside. You don't need a screen, since small debris can't hurt the generator. Make your overhead supporting structure very strong since downstream forces are unexpectedly powerful. If the stream is subject to heavy spates due to seasonal run-off or heavy rains upstream, you should provide a way to raise the generator safely above the new water level.

If your home is on the sea or near a tideway, the AQUAIR UW is also ideal for you. Its alternator produces electricity no matter which way the current is flowing.

Under ideal conditions, the AQUAIR UW puts out 8.3 Amps at 12 Volts DC, 200 Amp-Hours (AH) per day (2.4 kWh) with a stream speed of 9 m.p.h. At 6 m.p.h. it will still produce 1.5 kWh per day. This electricity must be stored in deep-cycle batteries that are at least double the capacity source. If the house or epuipment is located next to the stream you can use 12 Volts. If the equipment is 200 feet away, choose the 24 VDC option. Any further, use a very heavy cable or an inverter to eliminate line losses.

High sustained outputs as in the AQUAIR UW system require regulation to protect your batteries. Use an effective voltage regulator to prevent overcharging just like with solar or wind powered systems. A minimum 25 amp regulator is required. See below.

2.4 Kilowatts is almost 1/4 the power used by a typical suburban home. In a wilderness home it can provide a good deal of comfort  with a little bit of care.

Retail price for the Aquair UW Generator $1,095.00
Mounting Pole $175.00
Propeller Guard $325.00
Spare Propeller $160.00
Prices may be less if purchasing a complete system
with batteries and all electric components.
 

Standard Options
Voltage Regulator/Isolator
Spare propeller
Heavy duty mounting pole to raise/lower unit-------------------------->
(1 meter w/welded flange bolts to unit)

Other Options: Shrouded propeller - Low RPM propeller - Propeller guard

The Aquair UW is approximately 14 1/2 " from nose to tail and 8 3/8 " in diameter. 8mm mounting bolts are spaced 1.75" on centers. Propeller diameter is 12 1/2".

Complete weight 22 lbs
Propeller weight 2.2 lbs

The forward facing 3 beaded propeller drives a permanent magnet alternator producing up to 8 Amps output current for a 12 volt system. The shaft rotates in double seals for optimum protection, backed by twin 'O' ring static seals at the rear of the casing. The cable exit is similarly double sealed by an internal moulding and external gland.  This unit is well sealed and contains mineral oil, making it extremely environmentally safe. 

A transom mounted bracket is available for sailing yachts to provide a 3 position support for the generator. This bracket must be situated such that the lifting action on the generator caused by the thrust on the propeller will not allow the machine to surface. When required, the unit is raised above the surface of the water and stowed by a retaining mechanism. It can also be swung completely upside down to allow inspection and cleaning of the propeller and shaft. A simple shear pin guards the generator against impact on the propeller. The unit can also be mounted between hulls on catamarans.

 AQUAIR U.W. (submersible shown above)
13.2' in length of 4-core cable connects to 2 external rectifiers fixed onto a heatsink which should be mounted in a suitably dry location near the battery. The output control switch and fuse are wired in the DC battery line. Any through-deck connector requires 4 individual contacts.

The Aquair requires a charge controller. The standard option above is a voltage regulator rated at 25 amps, or you can use any 12/24v minimum 25 amp charge regulator like a Trace C-40. This simply, but importantly prevents over-charging your batteries since the unit produces sustained high output.

AOUAIR 100 (towed unit not shown)
16.5' of 2-core cable (1.5mm2 core area) is connected to the Aquair generator. This can be terminated direct to the battery but we suggest wiring through a switch, fuse and ammeter (10 Amp for 12 volt) and also the use of a through deck plug and socket. A second deck socket should be considered for fore-triangle hoisting of the wind version. A cable extension up to 16.5' can be made using the same wire. Operating a towed generator with the switch in the open (off) position will not damage the unit but will generate a high open-circuit voltage which must be treated with care.