Since 2016, the Swi-Tec hydro-generator has been marketed by Sea Tech & Fun. This 600 watt model with a three-bladed propeller with fixed blades is perfectly suited for cruising. The operating principle is to produce electricity by rotating a generator, using the speed of the sailboat. We take power from the sails to convert it into energy.
600 watts of power
To manufacture its hydro-generator, Swi-Tec relies on the electric motor manufacturer Torqeedo. This is a guarantee of reliability and safety. Swi-Tec then manufactures all the accessories and assembles them. These are particularly strong solid stainless steel parts.
Suitable for cruising
The Swi-Tec hydro-generator is available with a power of 600 W and 40 A. It can be adapted for 12 or 24 V. Its controller has a display that gives information on the state of charge and other data such as maximum peaks. To adapt to the boat's speed, the propeller pitch is adjustable. Thus the hydro-generator can charge from 3 nodes. Note that the propeller blades can be dissociated. If one breaks, it is easy to replace it without changing the entire propeller.
The charger also acts as a controller to which solar panels can be connected in addition (max. 400 W). And when the battery is charged, the propeller of the hydro-generator starts to freewheel so as not to brake the boat any further.
Fits on all transoms
The Swi-Tec's strength lies in its mounting bracket. Indeed, this hydro-generator can be adapted to any type of transom, whether vertical or tilted positively or negatively. It has 16 adjustment holes for a precise adaptation. Thus the propeller remains vertical. A mounting bracket can be ordered to adapt to rear platforms or on a step of the skirt. The helmet allows a rotation along a vertical axis leaving the propeller always well oriented in the water nets.
When not in use (at anchor or in port), the Swi-Tec is lifted using rope hoists. Note the 4 plastic screws that provide the anti-collision system. These 4 screws are designed to break if a rope or a very large package of algae is supported on the hydro-generator. In this case, it disengages without being damaged.
A great price!
Offered at a full 3,660 euros, this hydro-generator remains the cheapest on the market (at equivalent power). With good performances announced, this model should continue its commercial success and find its place on many sailboat transoms.
Features and characteristics
- Power: 600 Watt
- Batteries: 100-400 Ah (automatic voltage distinction)
- Battery charged: 14.4 V (adjustable up to 16 V depending on the loss in the cable)
- Min. battery disconnection voltage: 10.98 V (adjustable by default)
- Charging voltage: 12.44 V (adjustable by default)
- Maximum charging current: 40 A
- Standby current: less than or equal to 45 mA
- Dimensions: 284 x 181 x 76 mm
- Complete weight with generator, loader, propeller and main support: about 15 kg
- Full price: 3,660 euros
