Design of small scale, axial flux, permanent magnet wind generator in Vietnam

This paper presents the design of light weight, small scale, disk type, axial flux, permanent magnet (AFPM) generator for wind applications. This article also shows the partial works done under state projects in renewable energy in Vietnam to find out the most suitable, reliable, self - made wind generator types for rural and remote areas. The collaboration project of Hochiminh City University (HCMUT) - Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST) - Berlin University of Technology (TU Berlin) resulted in some small scale, axial flux, slow speed, permanent magnet (PM) generators which best suited for Vietnam countryside areas. The researches in rare earth PM from HUST, the electrical machine design knowhow of TU Berlin and the renewable energy research experiences of HCMUT, especially in slow speed wind turbines have shown many promising applications. The small scale, permanent magnet wind generator for remote and rural areas as a cheap source of power supply is necessary in Vietnam. Though there are many large wind farms built in many provinces recently but the needs for telecommunication, family lighting in the heights, mountain, unreachable electric grid communes are still necessary. Further research should be done to match the generator for hydro power stations, diesel coupled internal combustion engine. These prospects are very promising.