I am living in democratic republic of Congo and the regular electrical supply is very sporadic. I need to buy a generator and need advice on how big it should be. Is there a formula to use that will help me? Thanks
2007-01-07 16:54:12 · 5 answers · asked by Ron 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Engineering
For a 12A circuit, multiply your operating voltage by 12 and the number will be VA or watts. 1000VA = 1kVA and for most purposes is 1kW. If you need 220V, it will be 2640 watts. If you need 120V, it be 1440 watts. Get the next size up and you should be ok.
I have other generator ideas which may help you out on my web page.
http://members.rennlist.org/warren/generator.html
2007-01-08 08:53:20 · answer #1 · answered by Warren914 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
W = V * I * cos(Phi).
The power you need is Voltage x Amps(12) x cos(phi).
The cos(phi) is unknown and depends on the load.
You can safely assume the power needed with this:
W = V * I * 1.5. This will give you some reserve.
On 220V, this gives: 220 x 12 x 1.5 = 3960W = 3.9KVA.
Available in any DIY shop for less than 500$.
Say "hi" to Dieudonné Kalumet: I was born in Kindu, Zaire!
2007-01-07 18:53:33 · answer #2 · answered by just "JR" 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Entropy. That is, loss of energy from the system. Energy leaks out of the system as heat from the wires resistance. Energy is lost through friction amongst machine parts. It would use more energy than it produced and be worthless as a generator even if it powered nothing but itself.
2016-05-23 07:57:52 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Depands on the Voltage
2007-01-07 17:14:26 · answer #4 · answered by JAMES 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
12 amps is like one circuit...
I don't think they make generators that small.
Whatever you do, don't run your generator indoors or in a garage...
2007-01-08 02:31:32 · answer #5 · answered by H_A_V_0_C 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋