This plan shows how to make a rugged and inexpensive classroom wind turbine that can be used for lab bench-based blade design experiments. While a few specialized parts are needed (a hub and DC motor), the rest of the components are easily found at most hardware stores.

• Six 6” PVC pipe
• One 3” PVC pipe
• One 24” PVC pipe
• Five 1” 90° pipe fittings
• One 1” PVC coupler
• Three 1” Ts pipe fittings (1 drilled)
• One hub material (wood circle)
• Tinkertoy
• One DC motor with wires and alligator clips (about 1” in diameter)
• PVC cutter or saw
• Soldering iron
• Wire
• Duct tape

National Standards: 5-8

• INT-A: 2.a. Different kinds of questions require different kinds of scientific investigations, including observing and describing, collecting, experimentation, research, discovery, and making models.
• INT-E: 1.a. Identify appropriate problems for technological design.
• INT-E: 1.b. Design a solution or product.
• INT-E: 1.c. Implement a proposed design.
• INT-E: 1.d. Evaluate completed technological designs or products.
• INT-E: 1.e. Communicate the process of technological design.