DC Generator Heads
We design and manufacture our DC Generator Heads. This gives us the ability to customize our units to match the engine of your choice at the power, voltage and rpm of your choosing. We have been doing this for over 12 years with successful deployments in telecom DC generators, hybrid vehicle installations and auxiliary DC power generators.
What is our “DC Generator Head”?
It is actually a 3 phase permanent magnet alternator designed to couple with an external rectifier. This is the same type of alternator used in many of the large wind turbine installations and inverter generators on the market. The difference you will find with our DC Generator head is the efficiency level will surpass anything on the market. This is due to a high level of customization and superior material grades.
Considerations for designing the right DC Generator
- Are there mechanical constraints?
- One of the main advantages of a DC Generator is the compactness of the generator head. The size of the generator head can be 30 to 70% less in size than a traditional induction alternator. The larger the power output will normally lead to a larger decrease in size.
- Are there cooling concerns?
- Depending on the running/cycle time, power output and amp rating, the generator head might require liquid cooling. We have internal and external cooling modules designed to fit our generators.
- Power
- What is the maximum power output that the system will require?
- Voltage
- The voltage output will depend on the complete system configuration. Will the system be used as a battery charging module. If so, what charging patterns are best suited for the batteries? What should be the voltage level for which the system cranks on? What should be the maximum charging voltage?
- RPM and maximum efficiency point.
- The RPM will depend on your prime mover. For a typical diesel engine, there will a point on its power curve for which there will be a maximum efficiency point of power per fuel consumption. Engineering the generator head to give the desired output at this rpm will lead to the system’s maximum efficiency. Studying the engine’s fuel consumption curve is critical (For example: See Yanmar’s engines fuel consumption curves. )
- Fit/Installation of DC Generator Heads
- In order to maximize space, integrating the generator head with the prime mover is necessary. Innotec’s generator heads are custom fit solutions to couple with the prime mover. For engines, this means matching flywheel and bell housing configurations or mating with shafts.
