Alternator winding
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Copper. Copper winding is typical for advanced class generators. The copper alternator is characterized by high conductivity and low resistance. The conductivity of copper is 1.7 times higher than the conductivity of aluminium, such a winding heats up less, and compounds made of this metal endure temperature drops and vibration loads. Among the disadvantages of the copper winding, one can only note the high cost of the alternator. Otherwise, generators with copper winding have high reliability and durability.
— Aluminium. The aluminium winding of the alternator is typical for low-cost-class generators. The main advantages of aluminium are light weight and low price; otherwise, such a winding is usually inferior to copper counterparts. An oxide film is created on the surface of aluminium, it appears everywhere, even in the places of contact soldering. The oxide film undermines the contacts and does not allow the outer protective braid to securely hold the aluminium conductors.
Motor type
Model name of the engine installed in the generator. Knowing this name, you can, if necessary, find detailed data on the engine and clarify how it meets your requirements. In addition, model data may be needed for some specific tasks, including maintenance and repair.
Note that modern generators are often equipped with
branded engines from famous manufacturers: Honda, John Deere, Mitsubishi, Volvo, etc. Such engines are more expensive than similar units from little-known brands, but this is offset by higher quality and/or solid warranty conditions , and in many cases, the ease of finding spare parts and additional documentation (such as manuals for special maintenance and minor repairs).
Fuel consumption
Fuel consumption of a gasoline or diesel generator, and for combined models — when using gasoline (see "Fuel").
A more powerful engine inevitably means more fuel consumption; however, models with the same engine power may differ in this indicator. In such cases, it is worth considering that a model with a lower flow rate usually costs more, but this difference can quickly pay off, especially with regular use. In addition, knowing the fuel consumption and tank volume, you can determine how long one refueling will last; at the same time, in inverter models at partial load, the actual operating time may be noticeably higher than the theoretical one, see "Alternator" for details.
Continuous operation time
The time during which the generator is guaranteed to operate without interruption.
This parameter is indicated exclusively for liquid fuel models with a built-in tank, and according to the simplest formula: tank capacity divided by fuel consumption. However, in some models, data may be provided for a certain load level (which is specified in the notes); at a higher or lower load, the operating time will be shorter or longer, respectively. As for specific numbers, in most modern generators the operating time is
up to 8 hours - this is quite enough for backup power and occasional use. More reputable models are capable of working for
8 – 12 hours, and an indicator of
13 hours and above is typical mainly for professional solutions.
We also note that, theoretically, many generators can be refueled without shutting down, but in practice it is better to take breaks and not exceed the stated time of continuous operation - this will avoid overheating and increased wear.
Noise level
The noise level produced by the generator during normal operation. The less noise the unit makes, the more comfortable it is to use, the closer it can be placed to people, but the higher its price, all other things being equal.
It is also worth considering that generators with internal combustion engines are, in principle, quite noisy equipment. So, even the “quiest” units produce
up to 70 dB - this is the volume of conversation in tones from medium to high. Accordingly, it is recommended to install the device remotely from the place of use. At the same time, we note that the noise level is not directly related to power: for example, among units with 80 dB or more, there are both heavy and relatively low-power models.
Sound level (7 m)
Sound pressure level in decibels at a distance of 7 m between the noise source and the ear of the equipment operator. Since people do not work in the immediate vicinity of the generator, the parameter will be useful for estimating the noise level at a distance. For example, current European Union regulations require that the sound power of generating sets with a power of more than 2 kW does not exceed 97 dB — at a distance of 7 m, the noise from the generator engine will correspond to a sound pressure of about 72 dB.
