Substitute a gas motor with electric motor

In summary, the conversation discusses the idea of replacing a gas motor in a 12kw Generac home backup generator with an electric motor, which would be powered by the grid and potentially save on power consumption. However, it is pointed out that this would not work as the generator would only output the same amount of power as the motor, and the efficiency would be lower than using mains electricity directly. The conversation is locked due to suspicions of it being about a perpetual motion machine.
  • #1
Charles Doyle
2
0
I'm sure that this has been posted before but...
I want to substitute a gas motor in my 12kw Generac home backup generator with an electric motor 48-volt 4hp@4000 rpm series.. I would run this electric motor from the grid and power my home from this newly design generator.
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
Why would you want to do that? Did you lose a bet?
 
  • Like
Likes phinds and russ_watters
  • #3
Correct me but the power consumption for a 48v motor that can propel a 12kw generator consume less power, I would thing 375 kwh/mo in turn costing me about 75.00 per/mo.
This would be a big savings
 
  • #4
So, I'm going to guess this is an attempt at a perpetual motion machine, but leave the thread up until confirmed. Trouble is, if you connect a 3kW motor to a 12kW generator, it'll just output about 3kW, and at a lower efficiency (say, 3.5kW input) than if you just used the mains electricity directly.

But yes, we do get this question disappointingly often.

[Edit: suspicion confirmed. Sorry, but the question is answered and we don't discuss perpetual motion here, even for debunking. Thread locked.]
 
Last edited:

FAQ: Substitute a gas motor with electric motor

1. Can any gas motor be easily replaced with an electric motor?

Unfortunately, it is not a simple swap as there are several differences between gas and electric motors. While some conversions may be possible, it often requires significant modifications and expertise.

2. What are the benefits of replacing a gas motor with an electric motor?

The main benefit is reducing reliance on fossil fuels and reducing emissions. Electric motors are also more efficient, quieter, and require less maintenance compared to gas motors.

3. How does the power output of an electric motor compare to a gas motor?

Generally, electric motors have lower peak power compared to gas motors. However, they have a more consistent and immediate torque, resulting in a smoother and more responsive driving experience.

4. Are there any limitations to using an electric motor instead of a gas motor?

One limitation is the range of the vehicle, as electric motors rely on batteries that need to be recharged. The availability of charging stations may also be a limitation, especially for long-distance travel.

5. What types of vehicles can benefit from replacing a gas motor with an electric motor?

Technological advancements have made it possible to convert a wide range of vehicles, including cars, buses, trucks, boats, and even airplanes, to electric motors. However, the feasibility and cost-effectiveness may vary depending on the specific vehicle and its usage.

Similar threads

Gravity Based Electricity Generator
3
Replies
74
Views
3K
Battery Powered Electric Motor and Charging Requirements
Replies
5
Views
2K
Can RCCB trigger falsely when it is in line with induction motors?
Replies
28
Views
2K
Boosting a petrol generator with a car battery?
Replies
11
Views
4K
Asymmetrical grounding of a 3 phase motor being run on a 1 phase supply
Replies
7
Views
2K
Electrical VTOL engineering, motor RPM vs weight loads,
Replies
1
Views
601
Need motor help with Electric Power Brush project for clearing snow
Replies
11
Views
3K
Battery pack for an electric motor
Replies
16
Views
2K
Convert 1 phase to 3 phase by using an old washing machine
Replies
19
Views
2K
DC motor voltage recommendations for a bike and power tools
Replies
5
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top