[PUP] Arild and the design build "thing"

[Dave Cooper]

<Alan wrote: Why such a big alternator if you only use it to put out 175
amps>

These are 175 amps at 28 volts (5 kw) or the same as 350 amps at 14 volts.
The Electrodyne uses very large external diodes that are generic and easily
replaces. The entire assembly is rated for 20,000 hours between service of
the bearings, It puts out the full rated amperage (250 amps) at 28 volts at
2400 rotor RPM. We run it at 2 to 1 so at 1000 rpm we are turning it at 2000
and it still gives us the 175 amps if we need it. At our normal cruise RPM
of 1250 its at 2500 and is very cool and happy.
These specs can't be touched by any other alternator that I have been able
to find.

We limit to 5 kw as this is getting close to the belts max hp power they can
handle. The only belts (2) we found that are up to the task are the 1/2"
Gates Predator which are Kevlar. Surprisingly cheap yet really do the job.
Very little stretch so little adjustment is required as they age.

The Balmar regulator has many adjustments and also has both battery and
alternator case temp sensors. It's a very good unit, IMO.

Any regulator should be able to run any alternator as long as the alternator
only looks for a field input. The regulator has all the smarts to handle
everything else.

Electrodyne really isn't in the marine business...their products are for
industrial, coaches, emergency equipment, etc applications. Stuff that has
to work under extreme conditions for long period of time.

So big bearings, lots of copper and a very robust yet simple design.

As always YMMV....

Dave & Nancy
Swan Song
Roughwater 58
Caribbean Cruise '07