15 Amp Brake Switch
For Use With DC Output Wind Turbines
Switch Specifications:
DPDT Toggle Switch
Center Off ON/OFF/ON
15 AMP @ 125 VAC
Switch is rated at 15 Amp 125 VAC. Switch mounts in a 15/32 inch hole and has screw type terminals.
(2 pole double throw center off) ON/OFF/ON toggle switch as pictured, this switch WILL NOT spring return to the center off position.
Hard Turn or No Turn Generator Types:
Lets figure out what kind of motor you have so we will know which type of braking system to use.
Turn the shaft with your hand on your DCPM motor. Note how easy or hard it turns. Now hook the two wires from the motor together and see if you can still turn your shaft. If you cannot turn your shaft this brake system should be able to hold your generator still in most winds.
If you can still turn it but it is just harder to turn this brake system will only serve to slow down your generator in higher winds, it may or may not be able to prevent damage.
Now with our turn test complete you either have a NO turn or a HARD turn generator. Keep in mind what your generator is as you read this section so you will know which configuration below you need to use.
Output is different on different generators. The more output your generator can produce the harder braking you will achieve. After your blades are mounted you can turn the generator again with the two wires contacting and you should be able to tell if this brake system will slow, bring to a slow stop, or just flat slam on the brakes.

Shutting your generator down before a storm is a great idea. If you know bad weather is in your area or likely, flip the switch to the brake position and wait it out. That is the best way to handle it. But what about when you wake up in the middle of the night and find winds of 50 plus? If you have a HARD turn generator, you can just flip the brake switch on and it will at least slow and maybe even stop the generator in due time.
If you have a NO turn generator even with the blades mounted you must use the configuration with the drop resistor or a ballast load such as a light bulb in the circuit. If you use the configuration without the resistor or bulb and you just flip the switch on, on a NO turn generator you might shear your blades right off at the hub.
By now you know what your generator needs to use this safety switch. Use the drawing that fits your HARD turn or NO turn generator.