Generator Information - Westerbeke 5.0KW BCG-60Hz Operator's Manual

GENERATOR INFORMATION
USE OF ELECTRIC MOTORS
The power required to start an electric motor is considerably more
than is required to keep it running after it is started. Some motors
require much more current to start them than others. Split-phase
(AC) motors require more current to start, under similar
circumstances, than other types. They are commonly used on
easy-starting loads, such as washing machines, or where loads are
applied after the motor is started, such as small power tools.
Because they require 5 to 7 times as much current to
start
as to
run, their use should be avoided, whenever possible, if the electric
motor is to be driven by a small generator. Capacitor and
repulsion-induction motors require from 2 to 4 times as much
current to start as to run. The current required to start any motor
varies with the load connected to it An electric motor connected
to
an air compressor, for example, will require more current than a
motor to which no load is connected.
In general, the current required to start 115-Volt motors connected
to medium starting loads will be approximately as follows:
MOTOR SIZE AMPS FOR AMPS FOR
(HP) RUNNING STARTING
(AMPERES) (AMPERES)
1/6 3.2 6.4
to
22.4*
1/4 4.6 9.2
to
32.2*
1/3 5.2
In
d
1/2 7.2 14.4
to
29.2*
3/4 10.2 20.4
to
40.8"
1 13 26
to
52
*NOTE: In the above table the maximum Ampsfor Starting is
more for some small motors than for larger ones. The reason for
this is that the hardest starting types (split-phase) are not made in
larger sizes.
Because the heavy surge of current needed. for starting motors is
required for only an instant, the generator will not be damaged if it
can bring the motor up to speed in a few seconds. If difficulty is
experienced in starting motors, tum off all other electrical loads
and, if possible, reduce the load on the electric motor.
REQUIRED OPERATING SPEED
Run the generator first with no load applied, then at half the gener-
ator's capacity, and finally loaded to its full capacity as indicated
on the generator's data plate. The output voltage should be
cheeked periodically to ensure proper operation of the generating
plant and the appliances it supplies. If an AC voltmeter or amp-
meter is not installed to monitor voltage and load, check it with a
portable meter and amprobe.
NOTE: When the vessel in which the generator is installed con-
tains AC equipment of J 20 volts only,
it
is recommended that the
generator
s
AC temlinal block be configured to provide one J 20
volt AC hot legfor the vessel's distribution panel. This will ensure
good motor starting response from the generator.
GENERATOR FREQUENCY ADJUSTMENT
Frequency is a direct result of engine/generator speed, as
indicated by the following:
• When the generator is run at 1800 RPM, the AC voltage
output frequency is 60 Hertz.
• When the generator is run at 1500 RPM, the AC voltage
output frequency is 50 Hertz.
Therefore, to change the generator's frequeney, the generator's
drive engine's speed must be changed along with a reconfiguring
of the AC output connections at the generator.
GENERATOR MAINTENANCE
• Maintaining reasonable cleanliness is important.
Connections of terminal boards and rectifiers may become
corroded, and insulation surfaces may start conducting if
salts, dust, engine exhaust, carbon, etc. are allowed to build
up. Clogged ventilation openings may canse excessive
heating and reduce life of windings.
• For unusually severe conditions, thin rust-inhibiting
petroleum based coatings should be sprayed or brushed over
all surfaces to reduce rusting and corrosion.
• In addition to periodic cleaning, the generator should be
inspected for tightness of all connections, evidence of
overheated terminals and loose or damaged wires.
• The drive discs on single bearing generator's should be
checked periodically if possible for tightness of screws and
for any evidence of incipient cracking failure. Discs should
not be allowed to become rusty because
rust
may accelerate
cracking. The bolts which fasten the drive disc to the
generator shaft must be hardened steel SAE grade 8,
identified by 6 radial marks, one at each of the 6 comers of
the head.
• The rear armature bearing is lubricated and sealed; no
maintenance
is
required. However, if the bearing becomes
noisy or rough-sounding, have it replaced.
• Examine the bearing at periodic intervals. No side movement
of the shaft should be detected when force is applied. If side
motion is detectable, inspect the bearing and shaft for wear.
Repair must be made quickly or major components will rub
and cause major damage to the generator.
Carbon Monoxide
Detector---------,
WESTERBEKE recommends mounting a carbon monoxide
detector in the vessel's living quarters. Carbon monoxide,
even in smaU amounts, is deadly.
TIle presence of carbon monoxide indicates an exhaust leak
from the engine or generator or from the exhaust elbow!
exhaust hose, or that fumes from a nearby vessel are
entering your boat.
If carbon monoxide is present, ventilate the area with clean
air and correct the problem immediately!
Engines & Generators
28