How do variables affect the sizing of a generator?
Analyzing the effect of voltage and frequency drops is indispensable for deciding which engines and alternators are more adequate for a generator.
Voltages are not a static phenomenon. They fluctuate resulting in peaks and drops during certain phases of the equipment’s functioning.
In fact, when we speak about circuits we distinguish between two types of situations:
- The steady condition: It is the stationary situation of normal functioning in which the voltage ows in a balanced state according to the conditions determined by the network.
- The transitional state: it occurs in certain periods of time in which the voltages and electrical intensities vary, before the circuit comes to its steady state and becomes stabilized.
The voltage variations occurring during these transitional periods are known as variables.
When do variables occur?
Logically, the normal situation in which variables occur is when we cause a circuit to pass from one condition to another, i.e. at the moment of connecting or disconnecting the equipment.
In fact, when we switch on and off a generator, short voltage peaks are triggered. Although they tend to end by themselves, we must not take them easily. Why is that? Because if the alternator and the engine happen not to be capable of coping with them, major functioning problems may ensue in the generator.
A matter of analysis
For this reason, in the process of designing and sizing a generator, it is indispensable to carry out a strict variable analysis.
Do you want to know the keys to be able to do this analysis?
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