Comparison Mast Group T3500 vs Mast Group RD3600

The rated power of the generator is the highest power supply that the unit is capable of delivering without problems for an unlimited time. In the “weakest” models this figure is less than 1 kW, in the most powerful – 50 – 100 kW or even more ; and generators with welding capabilities (see below) typically have power ratings ranging from 1 – 2 kW to 8 – 10 kW.

The main rule of choice in this case is this: the rated power must not be lower than the total power consumption of the entire connected load. Otherwise, the generator simply will not be able to produce a sufficient amount of energy, or it will work with overloads. However, to determine the minimum required generator power, it is not enough to simply add up the number of watts indicated in the characteristics of each connected device - the calculation method is somewhat more complicated. Firstly, you need to take into account that only the active power of various equipment is usually indicated in watts; In addition, many AC electrical appliances consume reactive power (the "waste" power consumed by coils and capacitors when operating at that power). And the actual load on the generator depends precisely on the total power (active plus reactive), indicated in volt-amperes. There are special coefficients and formulas for its calculation.

...The second nuance is related to the power supply of devices in which the starting power (and, accordingly, the power consumption at the moment of switching on) is significantly higher than the rated one - these are mainly devices with electric motors such as vacuum cleaners, refrigerators, air conditioners, power tools, etc. You can determine the starting power by multiplying the standard power by the so-called starting coefficient. For one type of equipment it is more or less the same - for example, 1.2 - 1.3 for most power tools, 2 for a microwave, 3.5 for an air conditioner, etc.; More detailed data is available in special sources. Starting characteristics of the load are necessary, first of all, to assess the required maximum power of the generator (see below) - however, this power is not always given in the characteristics; often the manufacturer indicates only the rated power of the unit. In such cases, when calculating for equipment with a starting coefficient of more than 1, it is worth using the starting power, and not the rated power.

Also note that if there are several outlets, the specific division of the total power among them may be different. This point should be clarified separately - in particular, for specific types of sockets (for more details, see “230 V sockets”, “400 V sockets”).

The maximum power supply that the generator can provide.

This power is slightly higher than the rated power (see above), but the maximum performance mode can only be maintained for a very short time - otherwise overload occurs. Therefore, the practical meaning of this characteristic is mainly to describe the efficiency of the generator when operating with increased starting currents.

Let us remind you that some types of electrical appliances at the moment of startup consume many times more power (and, accordingly, power) than in normal mode; this is typical mainly for devices with electric motors, such as power tools, refrigerators, etc. However, increased power for such equipment is needed only for a short time; normal operation is restored in just a few seconds. And you can evaluate the starting characteristics by multiplying the rated power by the so-called starting coefficient. For one type of equipment it is more or less the same (1.2 - 1.3 for most power tools, 2 for a microwave, 3.5 for an air conditioner, etc.); More detailed data is available in special sources.

Ideally, the maximum power of the generator should be no lower than the total peak power of the connected load - that is, the starting power of equipment with a starting factor above 1 plus the rated power of all other equipment. This will minimize the likelihood of overloads.

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).

The working volume of the engine in a gasoline or diesel generator (see "Fuel"). Theoretically, more volume usually means more power, but in fact, everything is not so clear. Firstly, the specific power strongly depends on the type of fuel, and in gasoline units, also on the type of internal combustion engine (see above). Secondly, similar engines of the same power can have different volumes, and there is a practical point here: with the same power, a larger engine consumes more fuel, but by itself it can cost less.

The operating power of the engine installed in the generator. Traditionally stated in horsepower; 1 HP approximately equal to 735 watts.

First of all, the rated power of the generator directly depends on this indicator (see above): in principle, it cannot be higher than the engine power, moreover, part of the engine power is spent on heat, friction and other losses. And the smaller the difference between these capacities, the higher the efficiency of the generator and the more economical it is. However high efficiency affects the cost, but this difference can pay off with regular use due to fuel savings.

The total number of sockets for 230 and/or 400 V provided in the design of the generator.

This number corresponds to the number of devices that can be simultaneously connected to the generator without using splitters, extension cords, etc. If it is a three-phase model (see "Output voltage") with different types of sockets, it is worth specifying the quantity of each type separately, as different models may have varying configurations. For example, a unit specified as having 3 sockets might have 1 three-phase socket and 2 single-phase ones, or 2 three-phase and 1 single-phase socket. Generally, the most basic modern generators have only 1 socket, though models with 2 sockets are more common; and the most powerful models can have 4 or more sockets.

It is also important to remember that the ability to connect various devices is limited not only by the number of sockets but also by the generator's rated power (see above for more details).

The number of 230 V sockets provided in the design of the generator, as well as the type of connectors used in such sockets.

The type of connector in this case is indicated by the maximum power that is allowed for the outlet - for example, “2 pieces for 16 A”. The most popular options for 230-volt outlets are 16 A, 32 A, and 63 A. We emphasize that amperes in this designation are not the actual power that the generator can produce, but the outlet’s own limitation; the actual power value is usually noticeably lower. Simply put, if, for example, the generator has a 32 A socket, the output power on it will not reach 32 A; and the specific number of amperes will depend on the rated and maximum power of the unit (see above). So, if for our example we take a rated power of 5 kW and a maximum of 6 kW, then to a 230 V outlet such a generator will be able to produce no more than 5 kW / 230 V = 22.7 A standard and 6 kW / 230 V = 27, 3 A at its peak. And if the power has to be divided between several outlets, then it will accordingly be even less.

As for specific types of connectors, the higher the power permissible for the outlet, the higher the requirements for its reliability and quality of protection. In light of this, as a rule, higher power outlets can be connected to lower power plugs (directly or through an adapter), but not vice versa. And if there are several sockets, by their type it i...s possible to estimate with some certainty the distribution of the entire power of the generator between them: between two identical sockets such power is usually divided equally, and more power is allocated to an socket with a larger number of amperes and power. However, specific details on this matter should be clarified separately in each case; It's also worth considering 400V outlets, if available (see below).

Existence in the generator of an output with a direct current and voltage of 12 V. The main function of this output is to charge car batteries, as well as power devices originally intended for cars (recall, 12 V is the standard voltage of on-board networks in cars).

The following types of 12-volt outputs are found in generators:

- Terminals. Terminals are used to connect wires directly without using any plugs. This connection is the most reliable.

- Socket. Socket outlet for a plug with two flat pins, designed to connect 12-volt consumers. Holes in sockets come in different layouts, which you need to pay attention to.

- Cigarette lighter. The so-called "car socket", which in many cars is combined with a cigarette lighter socket (hence the name). Such connectors are used to power various automotive devices and accessories.

The total weight of the unit - as a rule, excluding fuel; The full fill weight can be easily determined by knowing the tank capacity.

In general, more powerful generators inevitably turn out to be heavier, but models with similar characteristics can differ noticeably in weight. When assessing these differences and generally choosing an option based on weight, it is worth taking into account the specific application of the generator. So, if the device will often be moved from place to place - for example, when used “on the road” - it may be worth paying attention to lighter units that are more convenient to transport. However, it is worth considering that the downside of a lightweight design is often an increased cost or a reduced degree of protection. But for stationary use, you can not pay much attention to this parameter - or even the opposite: choose a heavier (and, as a rule, more advanced and functional) option.

Regarding specific numbers, it is worth noting that modern generators in general are quite massive. So, a small weight for such equipment is considered not only up to 20 kg, but even 20 – 30 kg ; Many units weigh 150–200 kg, or even more, and the weight of stationary industrial models is already measured in tons.