Devon TRF Group Forum

Steve H · Devon's Best

Generator wanted

KronreifTrunkenpolzMattighofen · Devon's Best

Steve H wrote:
at least 2800w continuous output, 240v.

Bear in mind that most Generators (and sub standard inverters) are rated in KVA, not KW. Whilst to most if us that would offer the same figure, manufactuers use a cos phi power factor of 0.8.

So a 1Kva generator will gave a MAXIMUM of 800 watts.

A 3.5Kva Genset will offer 2800w max, which will struggle to offer this power for any decent amount of time. (Imagine every time you rode your bike you redlined it, constantly for maximum power - it wouldn't last long)

Aim for a 4Kva (3200w) Genset at least, anything over 5Kva is a waste of power potential and much higher running / service costs.

Steve H · Devon's Best

Thanks Nick,

I want it to run a couple of lights in a shipping container I'm going to use for storage. Last winter i'd go to my (rented, no power) garage to put tools/gear away after work & struggled with battery powered lights.

The intention is also to be able to run a small pressure washer to clean off my bike (not whilst the lights are on wink ).

The ability to be able to use small powertools with it would be usefull.

Two I have an eye on are

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/280806516937?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

or

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/370565323000?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

The main difference seems to be an extra 110v socket, which as I have no 110v tools, isn't really a problem.

I realise neither will be as good as, say, a Honda powered one but I don't anticipate using it often, certainly not for more than around 20 mins at a time.

KronreifTrunkenpolzMattighofen · Devon's Best

They seem ideal for light/medium use, and at 4Kva, Max 3.2Kw with a cont of 2.8Kw should be fine.
Most of the systems we design and supply are for commercial vessels or bluewater sailing and we make sure that they systems are belt and braces!
If the pressure washer is the highest consuming unit you have, and is only used for 20 mins then the windings should last a long time, unless the pasty warming microwave is run at the same time!

Steve H · Devon's Best

nickpdo wrote:
If the pressure washer is the highest consuming unit you have, and is only used for 20 mins then the windings should last a long time, unless the pasty warming microwave is run at the same time!

Hmmm, better to warm the pasties whilst drying the bike off then biggrin

& keep a certain Mr S away wink

Steve H · Devon's Best

Sorted, got a nearly new one from e-bay for a decent price smile