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\Generator speed vs frequency

Eric Freedman
 

Hi Craig,

The frequency of AC is determined by the

RPM of the genset.

It would not be feasible to change the speed .


Generators consist of an engine directly connected to an alternator to produce electricity. One of the most common ways of changing the output frequency of a generator is to change the rotation speed of the engine.

The two factors are related as per the following formula –
Generator Frequency (f) =
Number of revolutions per minute of the engine (N) * Number of magnetic poles (P) / 120
Conversely, P = 120*f/N

As per the above formulae, a 2-pole generator producing an output frequency of 60 Hz has an engine speed of 3,600 rpm. To change the output frequency to 50 Hz for the same generator configuration, the engine speed needs to be reduced to 3,000 rpm. Similarly, for a 4-pole generator, an engine speed of 1,800 rpm produces output of 60 Hz. Reducing the engine speed to 1,500 rpm yields an output of 50 Hz.

Fair Winds
Eric
Kimberlite Amel Super Maramu #376

 

 

 

From: amelyachtowners@... [mailto:amelyachtowners@...]
Sent: Saturday, March 17, 2018 12:51 PM
To: amelyachtowners@...
Subject: RE: [Amel Yacht Owners] Generator load, carbon buildup, etc.

 

 

Hi Eric,

I googled the spec sheet on your MDKAV and it says it runs at 1500 rpm. It's the newer model that runs at 2900 rpm. I should think a variable speed would be great at it would always present a full load to the engine, regardless of rpm.  Oh well, next boat.

Cheers, Craig



---In amelyachtowners@..., <kimberlite@...> wrote :

Craig,

My Onan is a MDKAV model and I don’t have the slightest idea how many rpm the 3 cylinder Kubota is running at. However it puts out 220-230 volts at 50 cycles.

Fair Winds

Eric

Kimberlite Amel Super Maramu #376

  
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