Generator why aren't pto generators a lot cheaper?

[have_blue]

Uhh, doesn't the rpm have to remain constant for the proper hertz frequency?

Yes.

The tools and appliances you plug into the generator determine the load, not the PTO RPM. Ideally, the RPM is constant.

If you have a 25KW generator, and only have 10KW plugged into it, there isn't much load on the tractor, and the generator runs nice and cool. If you plug in 25KW, the tractor grunts, uses a lot of fuel, and the generator runs hotter.

If you really need a constant 25KW, it's better to get a 35-40KW generator and a tractor with a 45KW PTO.

 

[Soundguy]

I'm mainly saying that it's not wise to run your generator on maximum output all the time. Just like any tool, it won't last as long if run at maximum load all the time. Just because a generator is 25KW doesn't mean you run it at 25KW all the time.

It's better to have a generator that's rated at about the same KW as your PTO. (plus 5% or so). That way, you get the best fuel efficiency. No use driving a 25KW generator with a 50KW PTO.

I'm not sure you understand how fuel is turned into hp.

If you have a 50hp engine, and you are only using 25 hp from it.. you do not burnt he same fuel that it takes to make 50 hp.. even if you are turning the same pto rpm.

Fueal usage is based mainly on load.

As for the generator's rated output.. it should list what it's duty cycle is. My unit is 100% duty cycle at rated output.

soundguy

 

[Soundguy]

Just my 2 cents, I went with a stand alone unit. I only have 1 tractor, If I had two I may have went with PTO. The main times we loose pwr in my neck of the woods is during spring storms, high winds tornados etc, which I need my tractor for clean up. The other time is during winter ice and snow storms, which SOMETIMES I need my tractor for moving snow or downed branches. My 5KW has 10 HP engine and runs 12 hours on 5 gal of gas. I can run my refredge, freezer, and furnace along with a few lights, even get to watch TV at night

Rarely have i found it necesscary to generate power AND use my tractor at the same time.

Emergency backup power is just that... backup.

Run the power for a couple hours to keep the refers cold, and get some water pressure.. check news / radio.. etc.. etc.. then kill it.. thent he trctor is available.

If you need full time 100% power.. And can't do without 'grid' for any length of time ..then i suggest a standalone unit on lp gas and a whole house automated transfer switch, and auto start function.

soundguy

soundguy

 

[capi75rs]

Rarely have i found it necesscary to generate power AND use my tractor at the same time.

Emergency backup power is just that... backup.

Run the power for a couple hours to keep the refers cold, and get some water pressure.. check news / radio.. etc.. etc.. then kill it.. thent he trctor is available.

If you need full time 100% power.. And can't do without 'grid' for any length of time ..then i suggest a standalone unit on lp gas and a whole house automated transfer switch, and auto start function.

soundguy

soundguy

Hole house gen would be nice, it's on my list (oh santa!!).
I've had a few times where I've needed both at the same time and with 3 small ones (all under 7) no electricity in the winter 0-19 degrees is not an option. I will admit there are several times that I've lost power and have not needed the tractor but it is nice to have it on standby. I will agree with you my friend, a whole house with automatic transfer switch is the way to go. Someday I hope to have one, but for now I'm content just having a generator. Merry Christmas everyone!

 

[Soundguy]

Nice thing about a pto gen is it takes about 3 seconds to disconnect the pto shaft and then you have the tractor available.

soundguy

 

[cdrew]

So, if I have a bx1830 with 13.7 pto hp, can I run a pto generator that requires 14 pto hp? Even run at 1/3 - 1/2 load?

 

[Brad_Blazer]

So, if I have a bx1830 with 13.7 pto hp, can I run a pto generator that requires 14 pto hp? Even run at 1/3 - 1/2 load?

Sounds like as close to a perfect match as you are likely to get. The hp numbers you list are maximums. You should be able to run at 98% of the generator full load value with that tractor.

 

[shvl73]

I can easily see the need for a pto genset and a stand-alone unit. If I was to do it over, I would get a transfer switch that throws the whole panel, instead of the 6 circuit one I got. I would be able to run the dryer, range, etc...
When we need the tractor for snow removal, barn cleaning, etc, we'd hook up the stand alone unit to keep the water and heat on.

 

[Soundguy]

So, if I have a bx1830 with 13.7 pto hp, can I run a pto generator that requires 14 pto hp? Even run at 1/3 - 1/2 load?

Remember.. electrical load is what determines hp needed.

a 10kw genny only loaded to 5kw does not consume the same hp as one fully loaded to 10kw.. the more kw, = more hp needed.

soundguy

 

[Ken]

In the mid '60's I worked for a communication system that used the Witte diesel and a belt driven gen for the power for micro-wave on a mountain top. this unit connected to a 1000 gal. diesel tank a 55 gal barrel for oil and every 5 years or so the unit was rebuilt.
Reliable as any unit around today. Ranchers used the same method for house power when light switch or refrig required power could hear the witte start and run as long as needed. no load it shut off.
Traveling Canada several of the motel and residences used the old 1 cyl belt driven generators.
I use a 5 k.w. Kohler for back up when the power is off must be 70 years old and quiet running yes reliable. don't have figures as to how much gas it uses always figured what ever is needed when needed.
The PTO driven are good where the flywheel is a stabelizing for constant power dairy men usually have this type. when finished at one location can be hauled to next needed place and connected and finished milking. Haven't talked to one who cared what size was best it was what was available at which place needed power. Start with the largest load and keep switching breakers until tractor starts talking then finish the job.
Good reading. ken