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Old 10-01-2011, 00:09   #1
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Genset and Compressor

I would like to be able to run a dive compressor with my genset. The time has come to chose the size of the genset and I am torn between the 5 and 7 KVa units from Northern Lights. I don't seem to be able to load any more than about 20 amps at 220V so the 5 KVa one should work. However, due to the start load of the compressors, I don't even know if the 7 KVa one will do the job. The dive compressor I have in mind is a Bauer Junior, has anyone got any experience with this combination they would want to share?

Also, I need to apologize for my ignorance. I posted this comment on another thread but I can not find it and it does not show anywhere. Sorry...

Cheers!
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Old 10-01-2011, 04:06   #2
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Originally Posted by Capn Morgan View Post
... I posted this comment on another thread but I can not find it and it does not show anywhere.
Cheers!
Here ➥ http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/...tml#post594125
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Old 10-01-2011, 04:35   #3
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Cap..... Many generators have surge capacity for starting loads. Typically the small diesel sets have a HUGE flywheel and the generator end is "usually" of a larger capacity than advertised. Often unfortunately, the exact specs are unavailable from the manufacturer... BUT if you can find a good service tech who is familiar with the unit you are looking at, they should have actual load experience for that set.

I have a 2.2kw Phasor, which will start 5000w loads!
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Old 10-01-2011, 07:21   #4
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There is no need to guess on this. Find out from the manufacturer of the dive compressor what they recommend. I would imagine their compressors have been put on plenty of boats. Ask them what worked and what might not have worked.
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Old 10-01-2011, 07:40   #5
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I have an 8kva Northern Lights that runs a Bauer Junior. No idea about the 5.
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Old 10-01-2011, 23:42   #6
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Outstanding! Thank you.

Gord, thanks, found the other thread with your link.

George, it is good to know, but I'm not keen on buying a new g'set and overloading it from day one with a compressor. More out of fear for the invoice than anything else, you understand.

David, Bauer publish the loads for both start and running. The small g'set theoretically won't do the job but it should have no problem while running. A friend told me he started a Coltri with a 4.5 KVa one but then these compressors have trickery that allows to start it without load.

Palarran, thanks, I think that unit is the same one as the 7KVa. It gives this lower rating at 1500 RPM/50Hz/220V.

As discussed in other threads, my main reason for wanting the smaller unit is to be able to load it to about 75/80 percent when I run it. My current 12KVa unit suffers because I just don't have enough loads to bring it to past 40 percent and most of the time half that. It weighs 200 pounds more and burns double the diesel.
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Old 11-01-2011, 02:28   #7
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you should get away with the 5.5 kw genset with a Vitron Quattro inverter/charger with 5kw boost for starting should do the job with other side benefits.

Victron Energy - Inverter/chargers - Inverters - Battery Chargers - and more

As Gord May suggested Vitron has the solution. Also check out vitron's generator test link from that page and you will see the solution.

Marine Generator Test - Victron Energy
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Old 11-01-2011, 02:32   #8
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the attached link is good info on advantages of the smaller genset/Vitron route


http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/...tem-29667.html
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