I want to make a model of geothermal energy. Geothermal energy uses steam to power a turbine which then powers a generator and then electricity. I have one of those little portable fans which uses 2 AA batteries and I was wondering if there was a way to make it generate electricity to power even an LED light but manually turning the blades of the fan as opposed to turning it on with the switch...
Many little fans are just DC brushed motors and can be used as a generator if shaft is turned. It would take a lot of wind force to get much power out of it, but it will work.
Note that most fans you encounter will not work as a generator. The fan must use a brushed motor and most generally do not. You will find brushed motors in hobby/toy products.
Incidently old computer printers are a good source of brushed motors for hobby applications.
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