72V DC Generators
72 Volts DC Generator
Innotec’s 72 volt DC generator heads can provide constant terminal voltage with the help of a regulator or be set to a charging voltage range for a battery bank. 72 volt battery banks are common for electric and hybrid mobile applications.
In addition to mobile applications such as construction machinery, the 72 volt generator heads frequently are used to back up solar installations when inconsistent solar power is available. The advantages of 72 Vdc systems versus 24 or 48 Vdc include
- Faster charge time and fewer amp requirements for the same power output. Lower amps means less heat and smaller gauge conductors leading from your generator to the battery bank. The difference of system design for a 10 kW – 72 Vdc system versus a 10 kW – 24 Vdc is enormous (140 amps versus 400 amps).
- This lower amperage output also allows any of the electronics in between the generator and battery bank to be sized smaller as well. In turn, they will have smaller heat sink requirements. This reduces the need for additional cooling (fans or liquid) in many circumstances. Specific heat monitoring and additional cooling options will be application dependent.
72V DC Starter/Generator
The 72 Volt DC Generators can also be used as the starter of an engine/or prime mover. Providing feedback between the generator and controller will allow the generator to be used as a starter for the application. This normally reduces initial starting torque required from the mechanical mover.
Difficulties with 72 Vdc Systems
Finding matching voltages for a system that uses multiple motors and controls can be difficult with 72 Vdc systems compared to 48 or 24 Vdc systems. Often, step down voltage controllers will be required. Identifying all of the components for a system before beginning to select a bus voltage is a good starting point.
