Leading Edge GA-CTRL-008C User manual

Tel: [phone] Skyrrid Farm, Pontrilas, Hereford. HR2 0BW. UK www.leturbines.com
2-Pole Run/Stop Switch (GA-CTRL-008C)
Only operate in light winds
Introduction
Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting to assemble, install or operate your run/stop
switch. This will assure optimum performance and safety.
The run/stop switch is designed to allow the user to dynamically brake an LE-300, LE-300 Marine,
LE-450 or LE-v150 turbine at will. This is achieved by disconnecting the power output of the turbine
from the relevant load and diverting it to a short circuit which then applies the dynamic braking
effect on the permanent magnet alternator of the turbine. This will bring the turbine to a near stop
for maintenance only.
The run/stop switch can be used with turbines of different manufacture as long as the relevant
turbine has the following characteristics:
Wild DC not exceeding 150 V & 20 A
Mechanically and electrically capable of dynamic braking
Operation & Specification
The run/stop switch should be operated during low speeds as repeated use at high speeds may
cause damage if the turbine head (it was not designed to withstand repeated dynamic braking
operations).
The switch has two positions:
Position 1: Turbine 'Stop' position. The turbine is dynamically braked and may rotate very slowly.
Position 2: Turbine 'Run' position. The turbine output is allowed to flow straight through the switch.

Tel: [phone] Skyrrid Farm, Pontrilas, Hereford. HR2 0BW. UK www.leturbines.com
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Safety Precautions
Safety must always be your primary concern during the assembly, installation and operation of your
turbine and other associated equipment. Always be aware of the risks involved with mechanical
and electrical installation work. If in doubt, please seek further assistance before proceeding.
Mechanical Safety Hazards:
Whilst installing the run/stop switch, ensure that the turbine is suitably restrained and not allowed
to operate during the installation.
Electrical Safety Hazards:
Our wind turbines generate rectified DC voltage and the run/stop switch also operates at these
voltages. Even at these low voltages there are inherent risks. Caution should always be used.
Ensure that you have followed the cable-sizing guidelines to ensure that the correct size of cable
has been selected. If a cable of insufficient cross-sectional area is used at any point in the electrical
system, heat will build up in the cables causing a potential fire hazard. A properly-sized fuse or
circuit breaker should be used in the cables connected to the battery. This will stop the risk of short
circuit currents.
Batteries used in renewable energy systems can deliver a serious amount of current. A short circuit
in the battery circuit can lead to hundreds of Amps flowing through the battery cables. This will
cause a heat build-up and ultimately an electrical fire. Batteries are also susceptible to exploding
when shorted. Always use insulated electrical tools when working on the battery’s electrical
connections.
Batteries are very heavy. Do not attempt to move batteries by yourself. Always use manual
handling tools and an assistant. Always keep lead-acid batteries the correct way up. Do not allow
the acidic electrolyte to spill or come into contact with your skin. Always follow the manufacturer’s
safety instructions when handling lead-acid batteries. Ensure that the run/stop switch is correctly
wired; incorrect wiring may lead to a short circuit across the batteries and lead to fire or explosion.
Installation
The run/stop switch works by disconnecting the turbine from the batteries and then shorting the
turbine output, causing an electrical brake and slowing the turbine. It has a number of cable entry
“knock outs” that can be used with cable entry glands as necessary. The switch is pre-fitted with a
“shorting link” between terminals 3 & 7 inside and the switch should be installed between the
turbine and the batteries.
In the RUN position, the switch output is on poles 1 & 5.
In the STOP position, the switch output is on poles 3 & 7.