What is a PTO Generator?
Most people in rural areas have a small engine-driven or tractor driven generators, PTO, or power take-off generators. This type of generator runs from a tractor's power take-off or a vehicle and can be used anywhere. A drive shaft connects the PTO generator to the tractor and the tractor then powers the generator.
There are advantages to this type of generator:
- These generators have no engine, so they require no maintenance.
- The PTO generator will outlast any other type of engine.
- A PTO engine is mobile, allowing electricity in even the most remote area.
- A PTO generator is cost effective compared to a regular generator.
- No worries about a PTO generator sitting for months without being started, as with other generators.
- PTO generators can offer more kilowatts.
Winco PTO Generators
Winco is an American company specializing in standby and backup power for homes and businesses. The company's goal is to create clean generators and provide backup electrical power with the least possible environmental impact. They also provide transfer switches and diesel powered generators.
NorthStar PTO Generators
Power output of these generators ranges from 7200 Watts to 27500 Watts. The required horsepower ranges between 14 hp and 48 hp Connects to a 1 3/8in. diameter, 6-tooth spline output shaft that needs to turn at 540 RPM. Outlets include welding receptacle and four 120V 20 Amp receptacles and voltmeter
Generator Transfer Switches
Some accessories are needed when purchasing a PTO generator. For instance, a manual generator transfer switch will be needed to provide power during a blackout. You will also need a trailer and a three-point hitch for moving it around, or if using it with a tractor you will need tumbling bars and a 6-spline input shaft geared
Single-Phase and Three-Phase PTO Generators
A PTO generator has two electrical phases. The first is single-phase electricity, which is just like the power in used in any household. This generator is most commonly used. However, if power in 208-volt or 480-volts for using applications for a greenhouse or a dairy is needed, a three-phase PTO generator would be needed. These are the generators used by rescue and fire trucks.
The benefits of three-phase power assure greater mobility, so power is made available in very remote areas and they can generate power for a longer period of time. They provide an uninterrupted power source that is economical, too.
The three-phase system has three circuit conductors that carry three alternating currents. These currents each reach their maximum power at different intervals. Because of this, constant power transfer is supplied to each cycle of the current. This also makes the three-phase PTO generator more economical than a single-phase because it uses less conductor material to send out electric power. Most manufacturers of PTO generators offer single and three-phase generators.
Horsepower or Capacity of PTO Generators
Both the size of the tractor and the size of the generator are important in determining exactly how much power can be generated. If you multiply the tractor's PTO hp by 0.75, which equals one horsepower, this will give you a general idea the size generator needed for the tractor. You may not get exactly that amount of power. As a general rule, you would be able to run lights and appliances, but not something that really pulls a lot of power, such as an air condition or a heat pump. It should be noted that running electronic equipment, such as a computer, from a generator is not a good idea because the power might not be stable and could damage your computer.
Cost and Selection
Although PTO generators can be expensive, per kilowatt they are cheaper than engine-powered generators and remember, there is really no maintenance involved. You can generally find PTO generators at any tractor dealer and of course, online. Several manufacturers make PTO generators, including TigerPower, Winco, northstar pto generator — and Onan. The most important consideration when shopping for a one is getting the size that will best suit your needs.
- Match the PTO generator size to your tractor's horsepower. It takes 2 HP to produce 1 kilowatt of electricity. So, if you have a 40 HP engine, you can run a 20 kilowatt PTO generator.
- PTO generators have two different speeds. They can run at 540 rpm or 1000 RPM. Although newer tractors can operate at both speeds, older tractors generally have only one speed. With an older tractor, choose the PTO generator with the same RPM.
- Decide what is needed, single-phase or three-phase. People looking for this type of generator for emergencies such as a hurricane or severe ice storm, when power outages are common, only need to consider a single-phase generator. If higher voltage is needed, a three-phase would by the choice.
Replacing worn brushes on a PTO generator is a thing of the past, since brushless generators are now available. Brushless PTO generators have been proven to be outstanding in efficiency and lifespan.
Prices for a PTO generator range from about $1,200 to $10,000, depending on the brand and the kilowatts needed. For instance, you can get a Chicago PTO generator, 15 kilowatt made to work with a small tractor (at least 30 HP) to power farm tools when you are far away from a power source and it is available at $1,299.99. At the other end is the Winco W100FPTOS PTO generator. This one requires a tractor with 200 HP and has 120 and 240V power and operates at 1800 RPM. Right now, you can find this one on sale for $9,897.00. As you can see, there is a huge price range for PTO generators, but there is also a huge difference in what you can do with the generators within this range, too. Each individual needs to determine exactly what they plan to do with a tractor driven generator and choose according to their personal budget.
Since PTO generators have no engine, they are maintenance free and have a design for long life. as long as you keep them out of the weather. They last much longer than other portable generators. If you have a tractor, a PTO generator can be indispensable on the farm during a power outage or when power is needed in a remote area. They can be very valuable to some commercial industries also. Whatever size is needed, the important thing is that a PTO generator can lessen your worries and provide help when you may need it most.
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