Generator Information - Westerbeke SBEG Series 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 oUler types. They are com-
monly used on easy-starting loads, such as washing
machines, or where loads are applied after the motor is
s!anted, 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 dri-
ven 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
In
medium starting loads will be approximately as follows'
MOTOR SIZE AMPS FOR AMPS FOR
(HP)
(lRUNNIN~)
AMPERES
(fTARTING
AMPERES)
1/6
3.2 6.4
to
22.4-
114
4.6 9.2
to
32.2-
1/3 5.2 10.4
to
72.S-
1/2 7.2 14.4
to
29.2-
3/4 10.2 20.4
to
40.S-
1
13
26
to
52
"NOTE:
In the above table the maximwl1
Amps for Starting
is
nwre for some small motors than for larger ones. The reason.
for this is thoJ the hardest starting types (split-phose) are lwt
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 liP 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 me generatOf ftrst wIth
1\0
load
appli1::d, !lien at half the
generators capacity, and finally loaded to its full capacity as
indicted on the generators data plate. The output voltage
should be checked periodically to ensure proper operation of
the generating plant and the appliances it supplies. If an AC
voltmeter or ampmeter is not installed to monitor voltage and
load, check it with a portable meter and amp probe. '
NOTE:
When the area in which the generator is installed
contains AC equipment of 120 volts only,
it
is reconunended
that the generators AC tenninal block be configured to
provide'one 120 volt A C Iwt1eg for the distribution pane!.
1his will ensure good nwtor starting response from the
generatOJ:
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 cause
excessive heating and reduced life of windings.
• For unusually severe conditions, Utin rust-inhibiting
petroleum-base coatings, should be sprayed or brushed
over all surfaces to reduce rusting and corrosion,
• In addition to periodic cleruting, 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 generators 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 becapse 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 IDe 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 bearing at periodic intervals. No side movement
of 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
generator.
CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR
WESTERBEKE recommends mounting a carbon monoxide
detector in the living quarters. Carbon Monoxide, even in
smaIl amounts
is
deadly.
The 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 generator
are leaking in your area.
If carbon monoxide is present, yentilate the area with clean
air.and_conect the_prchlem.i mm
ediatelyl
~
WESTERBEKE
EnglneB
&
Generators
25