Vertical axis wind turbines are more uncommon than their horizontal counterpart and so we thought it would be interesting to put together a workshop which would demonstrate a miniature Savonius design in action.

A wooden frame was erected to provide support and the turbine itself consisted of a split bottle with each half facing in different directions, acting like cups. There were magnets attached to the bottom of the turbine which when rotating passed over the magnet coils below to induce a current. Due to the high resistance of the copper wire we only managed to produce a very small current.


Click the photo to see the rest of the gallery for this event.

Having seen the workings of a sand filter from the previous research project meeting we then focused on discussing the theory of how biosand filters work and how to train the local population to use them.

The aim for the next research meeting is to be taught by the training team on how to build a bio sand filter and actually make one.

In our second research meeting of the year on Thursday 21st October, we made sand filters from a combination of sand and gravel. The two groups then tested their filters with dirty water and both groups produced relatively clean water but at different flow rates.

The purpose of this workshop was to give a practical demonstration of the workings of sand filters and to get us them thinking about the proportions of material that should be used. At the next research project meeting we'll be focusing on the theory behind biosand filters and possible ways of improving them.

On the 3rd-5th September 2010 three members of EWB-GU made the journey down to Rugby for the Small Is... Festival 2010.

The festival, based on the book "Small is Beautiful" by Fritz Schumacher, ran for its second consecutive year in the grounds of interational development agency "Practical Action" who also co-ran the festival with EWB-UK.

The programme was jam packed with workshops, seminars and discussion groups, all kick started by an introduction from TV presenter, radio broadcaster and writer Adam Hart-Davis. The workshops ranged from a Perspectivity Game that introduces the social, economical and political challenges that hinder change to a workshop on how to make your own mud bricks or build your own solar PV system.

The evening entertaiment was also scheduled and enjoyed by all. Stay tuned for a more detailed description of the event by EWB-GU president Euan Muir. In the mean time, click on the photo to see more.

In April 2010 EwB-GU visited the centre for alternative technology (CAT) in Wales.

The purpose of the visit was for Stephanie to realise the potential of her dissertation project on producing renewable electricity from sewage and to provide inspiration for EwB-GU’s 09/10 research project.

Follow this link to find out how we got on. CAT offers Master courses for anyone who is interested in alternative technology. Check out their website for further details.

Georgina went to Aberdeen for the all energy conference in May to learn more about renewables and find potential support to EWB-GU from professionals.

To read more follow this link: All Energy Conference 2010

Brief: Design a simple and effective system for latrines which can separate the liquids and solids from human waste and by doing so making the latrine pits last longer. The system mustn't have any moving parts, buildable from local materials and not require frequent maintenance.

If you would like further information on this project then please follow this link.