Generator Frequency? - Small Cabin Forum

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Small Cabin Forum / Off-Grid Living / Generator Frequency?


Author	Message
Bonehead Member	# Posted: 26 Feb 2011 10:46am Reply Hello All! I am getting an water-cooled diesel 7Kw 1800 rpm generator for my off-grid cabin. Now for the Bonehead question: If all my electrical devices are rated 50/60 Hz, what is the advantage in running the generator at 1800 RPM for 60hz instead of 1500 RPM for 50hz? Lower noise...Yes Longer engine life...Probably Lower Fuel consumption?...Maybe Reduced life of electrical equipment?...Not sure

Kramer Member	# Posted: 26 Feb 2011 07:46pm Reply Check to make sure the engine driving the generator will still make enough power at 1500rpm. Being a diesel unit, it probably isn't an issue, but lots of gas gensets struggle to make rated power to begin with (then throw in environmental factors, such as altitude and heat, and they have no hope). Also, any devices not rated for 50Hz will not last long... Otherwise, I couldn't really tell you if it will pay off in the long run or not.