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Bus Discussion => Bus Topics ( click here for quick start! ) => Topic started by: opus on September 11, 2011, 08:22:51 PM

Title: For you electrical whizzes.....
Post by: opus on September 11, 2011, 08:22:51 PM
Here is the scenario:

I am running my generator and its starting to run out of gas. It starts surging. We know that isnt good for the components that are plugged into it. Is there some sort of a common breaker that once it gets below 100V or so that the breaker will trip and the generator can just run out of gas and will kill the output to the components plugged in? Yes, I know, dont let it run out of gas. Thats ideal but not what I am looking for in this scenario.

Title: Re: For you electrical whizzes.....
Post by: desi arnaz on September 12, 2011, 01:35:22 AM
Time to ask mr wizard (Sean )he will know.
Title: Re: For you electrical whizzes.....
Post by: Jeremy on September 12, 2011, 03:19:24 AM
Possibly a float switch in the fuel tank would be more straightforward?

Jeremy
Title: Re: For you electrical whizzes.....
Post by: oldmansax on September 12, 2011, 04:43:42 AM
You can buy a voltage/phase monitor at most HVAC supply houses. The nicer ones are programmable to your parameters. It's a make or break switch so you will need a suitable contactor in the circuit for it to control.

TOM
Title: Re: For you electrical whizzes.....
Post by: opus on September 12, 2011, 08:33:06 AM
I forgot to mention, the genset in this particular setup is a Champion 4kw.  You know, one of those yellow throw away ones.

I was thinking something simple that could plug into the 30A outlet or such.  Not sure how I would work a fuel float switch without major modifications.  I figured that if I had a drop of voltage by X volts, it would throw a switch and kill output going down the line and the generator could just run itself out of fuel.  Someone mentioned to me a motor switch?