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Generators are rated for their total power but the ones with higher output usually have a 240V outlet and that automatically means they provide the full rated power only on 240V but only half the power on each of the two 120V circuits. If your compressor has a 120V connector you can only make use of half the generator's power. A lot of compressors can be converted though to 240V. Open the motor's electric connector access panel and look for instructions to reconfigure it for 240V, then cut off the 120V plug and put a 240V one on (the neutral pin is then not used). | Generators are rated for their total power but the ones with higher output usually have a 240V outlet and that automatically means they provide the full rated power only on 240V but only half the power on each of the two 120V circuits. If your compressor has a 120V connector you can only make use of half the generator's power. A lot of compressors can be converted though to 240V. Open the motor's electric connector access panel and look for instructions to reconfigure it for 240V, then cut off the 120V plug and put a 240V one on (the neutral pin is then not used). | ||
* Note: Harbor Freight 4,000W is not strong enough, even when running the compressor | * Note: Harbor Freight 4,000W is not strong enough, even when running the compressor at 240V. | ||
* [https://www.harborfreight.com/9000-watt-gas-powered-portable-generator-epa-63970.html Harbor Freight 9,000W] works perfectly<br>(wheels and battery costs extra) | * [https://www.harborfreight.com/9000-watt-gas-powered-portable-generator-epa-63970.html Harbor Freight 9,000W] works perfectly<br>(wheels and battery costs extra) | ||
Revision as of 15:50, 25 June 2022
Workbenches
Generators strong enough to power a 15A compressor
Some airports don't have adequate wiring to run a compressor. A row of hangars might be on a single 20A fuse. On a hot day, the fridges run more often and there might not be enough power available to run a compressor.
Generators are rated for their total power but the ones with higher output usually have a 240V outlet and that automatically means they provide the full rated power only on 240V but only half the power on each of the two 120V circuits. If your compressor has a 120V connector you can only make use of half the generator's power. A lot of compressors can be converted though to 240V. Open the motor's electric connector access panel and look for instructions to reconfigure it for 240V, then cut off the 120V plug and put a 240V one on (the neutral pin is then not used).
- Note: Harbor Freight 4,000W is not strong enough, even when running the compressor at 240V.
- Harbor Freight 9,000W works perfectly
(wheels and battery costs extra)