Many of Merlin Equipment's customers are operating in environments where obtaining electrical power to top-up or recharge is difficult. It is not always possible or practical to operate engines or generators running on their own fuel source - nor desirable.
Not only do engines burn fossil fuels but they are noisy. If you are anchored on a yacht enjoying the peace and quiet or in a military environment where you do not want to be identified easily, then noise is not helpful!
Merlin currently recommends two alternative power sources; solar and wind.
Solar
Solar Panels turn sunlight into DC power to maintain or charge batteries. They can be used in a wide range of applications including static domestic or mobile and can even be portably deployed and then stowed away.
Currently, Merlin stocks portable and semi-flexible solar panels - the majority of which are suitable for marine and special vehicle applications. We will also work with our customers to develop systems for static or larger mobile applications with framed modules when required. Please contact us for further information on framed, high output solar projects.
Our solar products are split into two distinct types of technology; Amorphis and Crystalline. Amorphis (also known and thin film) produce relatively low power per square meter but are very cost effective. They also work well as a compromise in imperfect weather conditions. Our Crystalline panels are of a much higher output per square meter but require good light conditions to work well.
Our Sunsei solar chargers are a very cost effective product designed to maintain (or prevent self discharge) of engine start and smaller auxiliary batteries. They utilise amorphis (thin film) technology and have outputs ranging from 2-6W.
The Flexcell portable solar panels are again, amorphis technology but are manufactured to a very high standard in Switzerland. They are a high quality product, designed to be portable and are extremely durable. We stock units from 7 - 27W in both semi-flexible and rollable formats.
The Merlin Solarplex range are a professional, semi flexible design. They use the very latest crystalline technology and are capable of much higher outputs in direct sunlight (5-130W). They are backed with tough stainless steel and use marinised components. Merlin Solarplex modules are complimented by sophisticated MPP regulators, ensuring that your batteries are recharged quickly, accurately and safely.
Wind
We concentrate on supplying wind turbines for the marine market, which we have done for over ten years. We have tried, tested and distributed a number of higher output products that claim to be "marinised", but simply cannot cope with highly corrosive salt water environments.
The Superwind turbine, which can produce up to 28A of charging current, addresses the problem of durability when mounted on marine craft. This is a beautifully and thoughtfully engineered product offering real benefit to customers who require a good alternative charging source. Only marine grade alloys and stainless steel are used in its construction and all of its electronics are hermetically sealed.
Superwind's unique, three blade pitch adjustment system also helps to keep the unit extremely quiet, which is another serious downfall with other products.
Other features include its constant speed design which limits blade speed to 1300 rpm, further reducing noise and wear and tear.
Custom Projects
Merlin's Engineering Department has extensive experience of custom alternative energy projects. We have built a wide range of solutions from portable solar powered battery packs for military field kitchens to one off complete power systems for remote homes. Please do not hesitate to contact us for further details.
| The following documents are available for you to download |
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Solar Panel Brochure |
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Superwind Turbine Brochure |
