generator questions
#1
05-24-03, 03:06 AM
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generator questions
Hello. I am a regular in the small engines forum and am currently attending vo-tech school to be a diesel mechanic, which leads me to my question. I have been looking at generators for a long time and kind of understand the way to figure out how many watts I need but one thing I don't understand, especially about large industrial generators, what are hertz and duty cycles? Also, what is the difference between a single phase and a 3 phase? One other thing, if one day I get a small engine or a large diesel engine, where could I get the alternator head to bolt on to the engine? What companies make these alternators and how much would they cost? Thanks for the help.
#2
05-24-03, 06:48 AM
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Some of the questions you ask are best answered with some theory. There are many books available to describe basic electricity. For what it is worth, heres some info:
Hertz and duty cycles are not only related to industrial gens, but even little ones for a home. Hertz is the frequency in which the electrical wave (signal) repeats itself per second. AC electric power in its basic form is a sine wave which crosses the zero point twice a cycle and reaches its positive peak 60 times a second (and negative peak 60 times a second).
Almost all power in the USA is 60 hertz.
Duty cycle is how much of the geenrator will be loaded and for waht duration. You may consider a duty cycle for a gen to be standby (emergency use) or prime (continuous use) rated.
Electricity is available in several configurations. Various voltages and phase orientation depending on the power consumption expected. Single phase is at most residences, and three phase is at most commercial/industrial facilities.
Hertz and duty cycles are not only related to industrial gens, but even little ones for a home. Hertz is the frequency in which the electrical wave (signal) repeats itself per second. AC electric power in its basic form is a sine wave which crosses the zero point twice a cycle and reaches its positive peak 60 times a second (and negative peak 60 times a second).
Almost all power in the USA is 60 hertz.
Duty cycle is how much of the geenrator will be loaded and for waht duration. You may consider a duty cycle for a gen to be standby (emergency use) or prime (continuous use) rated.
Electricity is available in several configurations. Various voltages and phase orientation depending on the power consumption expected. Single phase is at most residences, and three phase is at most commercial/industrial facilities.
