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BASIC OPERATION
OPERATING SPEED
The engine-generator must be run at the correct speed in
order to produce the proper electrical voltage and
frequency.
CAUTION: EQUIPMENT DAMAGE
The output voltage should be checked to insure the
generator is working properly prior to connecting a load to
the generator. Failure to do so could result in damage to
equipment plugged into the unit and possible injury to the
individual.
All engines have a tendency to slow down when a load is
applied. When the electrical load is connected to the
generator, the engine is more heavily loaded, and as a
result the speed drops slightly. This slight decrease in
speed, together with the voltage drop within the generator
itself, results in a slightly lower voltage when the generator
is loaded to its full capacity than when running no load.
The slight variation in speed also affects the frequency of
the output current. This frequency variation has no
appreciable effect in the operation of motors, lights and
most appliances. However, electronic equipment and
clocks will be affected if correct RPM is not maintained. See
Load vs. Output chart.
Although individual units and models may vary slightly, the
normal voltage and frequency of the engine-generators
described in this book are approximately as follows, under
varying loads:
LOAD vs. OUTPUT
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Generator
Frequency Generator voltage
Load
Speed
Applied*
(RPM)
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
None
3750
Half
3600
Full
3540
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
*Portion of plant's rated output current.
The speed of the engine was carefully adjusted at the factory
so that the generator produces the proper voltage and
frequency. For normal usage, the speed setting should not
be changed. If the generator is being run continuously on a
very light load, it is often advisable to lower the operating
speed slightly. Whenever making any speed adjustments
check the unit with a voltmeter or tachometer and be sure
the speed is correct.
Lower voltage may damage both the generator and any load
connected to it. Running the engine at excessively high
speeds results in high voltage, which may significantly
shorten the life of appliances being used.
Output voltage should be checked periodically to ensure
continued proper operation of the generating plant and
appliances. If the generator is not equipped with a
voltmeter, it can be checked with a portable meter.
ADVANCE POWER SERIES
(Hz)
120V
Recpt.
62.5
129V
60.0
120V
59.0
115V
Frequency can be checked by using an electric clock with
a sweep second hand. Timed against a wrist watch or a
stop watch, the clock should be correct within +/- 2
seconds per minute.
CONNECTING THE LOADS
Applying The Load - Allow the engine to warm up for two or
three minutes before applying any load. This will allow
the engine to reach normal operating temperature and oil
to circulate throughout the engine. A short warm-up time
will permit the engine to work more efficiently when the
load is applied and will reduce the wear in the engine,
extending its life.
Receptacles have been provided to allow loads to be
connected to the generator. The loads should be added
one at a time. If a large motor is being started or multiple
motors are being started, they should be started
individually and the largest should be started first.
CAUTION: EQUIPMENT OVERLOAD
Keep the generator load within the generator and
receptacle nameplate rating. Overloading may cause
damage to the generator and/or the loads.
Most electric tools and appliances will have the voltage and
amperage requirements on their individual nameplates.
When in doubt consult the manufacturer or a local
electrician. The nameplate amperage rating for electric
motors can be misleading. See "Starting Electric Motors"
in Unit Capabilities (page 3).
These engine generator sets are inherently self regulating
based on engine speed. The engine governor will
automatically adjust itself to the load. No harm to the
generator will result if it is operated with no load
connected.
Proper utilization of the receptacles located on the control
panel is necessary to prevent damage to either the
receptacles or the generator. The generator is a limited
source of electrical power, therefore pay special attention
to the receptacle and generator ratings. The nameplate
rating can be obtained through a single receptacle as
long as the receptacle amperage rating is not exceeded.
Grounding - All units must be grounded. Drive a 3/4 or 1"
copper pipe or rod into the ground close to the engine-
generator set. The pipe must penetrate moist earth.
Connect an approved ground clamp, to the pipe. Run a
no. 10 Awg wire from the clamp to the generator ground
lug on the "end cover". Do not connect to a water pipe or
to a ground used by a radio system.
The engine-generators covered in this manual were
designed for portable use. Do NOT install or operate this
generator indoors. The unit should be stored in a warm
dry location. During a power outage, move the unit
Page 6
60708-029
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