Hi, I am working on a small wind generator and need to wind 12 coils.
I have 8 very strong Rare Earth magnets to use as a rotor. My question is...rather than winding 12 coils for a 3 phase generator, can I substitute 12 solenoid coils? They are machine wound and relatively close in winds.
Would keeping the solid rod in the bore assist? (Glued in place)

 

Sure, use the solenoid coils. No as for the core, That may cause more 'drag' because the magnets will be more attracted to the steel cores, but, give her a try. Take 1 solenoid coil, hooked to a meter and wave the magnet over it and see what you get. Then remove the core and try again.