What is the maximum output of a vehicle alternator and how can it be calculated?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the theoretical output of vehicle alternators and their potential use in homemade generators. Participants explore the calculations involved in determining the output, the suitability of alternators for household applications, and alternative energy solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks to calculate the theoretical output of a vehicle alternator, noting that household electronics are measured in watts and expressing confusion about the calculations.
  • Another participant explains that electrical power is calculated as volts multiplied by amps, mentioning that a typical vehicle alternator outputs around 13-14V DC and 50A.
  • A participant calculates a theoretical output of 650W based on the alternator's specifications and discusses plans to connect it to car batteries and an inverter.
  • Concerns are raised about the need for cooling if the alternator is to be used continuously, and suggestions are made to consider heavy-duty alternators from trucks or buses.
  • Participants share resources and websites related to alternative energy, with one mentioning a site focused on wind power and homemade generators.
  • There is a discussion about the inefficiency of using an alternator for wind generation due to the requirement of providing voltage to the field windings.
  • One participant expresses skepticism about a proposed magnetic motor design, suggesting it may not work and indicating plans to use a gasoline engine instead.
  • Another participant questions the feasibility of the magnetic motor, proposing that it might only work under specific conditions, such as muscle oscillation.
  • There is a request for theoretical reasoning to support the skepticism about the magnetic motor, indicating a desire for clarification on its viability.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of viewpoints, with some agreeing on the limitations of vehicle alternators for certain applications while others explore various ideas and designs without reaching a consensus on the effectiveness of the magnetic motor or the best approach to using alternators.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge the need for further understanding of the electrical principles involved, particularly regarding the field windings of alternators and their efficiency in different applications. There is also uncertainty about the practicality of the proposed magnetic motor design.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in alternative energy solutions, DIY projects involving generators, and those exploring the use of vehicle components for home energy applications may find this discussion relevant.

Michamus
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Hello everyone,

I have a question that I have been unable to find an answer to. I am interested in salvaging a vehicle alternator in an attempt to create a homemade generator. I understand that household electronics' needs are measured in watts, but I can't seem to figure out how to calculate the theoretical output on a given alternator's output. From what I understand 1kw requires about 1.3hp, but I am lost on the rest.
 
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Electircal power is volts * amps.
Vehicle alternators will have a rectifier and regulator built into put out around 13-14v DC, a typical modern car unit generates about 50A.

The AC part of the alternator (if you can get at it) generates 3phase AC at low voltage - it's not going to be that suitable for running houshold electricals.
 
Alright, so if I have 50amp * 13v, that would mean I would have a theoretical output of 650w? What I am planning on doing is connecting the generator to a series of car batteries. Then the batteries will be connected to a 1-1.5kw Inverter.
 
Sounds reasonable - if you are planning to run it continually you want to look at cooling. It might also be better to get a heavy duty alternator from a truck or bus.

Search the alternative power websites - they have a lot of info about the best junk-yard solutions.
 
I really appreciate all the help. Are there any particular alternative energy sites you would recommend?
 
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No, sorry - I remember reading one about windpower that made their own generators out of a Volvo wheel hub, some super strong magnets and their own coil windings.
There was some reason why car alternators weren't suitable - mostly their lifetime if run continuously, volvo wheel bearings apparently run for ever!
 
I think I should throw out a big part of my plan, just to see what everyone thinks. I am planning on testing this wacky magnetic motor design [link deleted]. I really don't think it will work, but I want to try it. If it fails I am planning on using a standard Gasoline Engine as the driving mechanism (not much wind where I plan on using it, and mobility is a must).
 
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Do you understand that the field windings in an auto alternator requires that you provide them a voltage inorder for the unit to give an output? So your batteries will need to be able to supply the winding voltage. Not very efficient for wind generation. You should try to find a dc generator instead.
 
  • #10
Michamus said:
I am planning on testing this wacky magnetic motor design [link deleted] . I really don't think it will work...
It is a pretty obvious hoax.
 
  • #11
russ_watters said:
It is a pretty obvious hoax.

the only thing i can imagine that might make that work is if it sets up an oscillation in the hand, and minute amounts of force from his muscles are transferred to the disc. a bit like using a treadle to power an old sewing machine wheel, but with a magnetic instead of mechanical linkage.
 
  • #12
dlgoff said:
Do you understand that the field windings in an auto alternator requires that you provide them a voltage inorder for the unit to give an output? So your batteries will need to be able to supply the winding voltage. Not very efficient for wind generation. You should try to find a dc generator instead.

To be honest, I have little to no understanding of this field. I am a hands on kind of person. I am planning on using the alternator as a component of a home-made Gasoline-engine generator (after the expected failure of the magnetically driven motor, I don't find any harm in at least trying.)

russ_watters said:
It is a pretty obvious hoax.

I am not saying it is true, just that I don't understand why it can't be. He seems to present a valid demonstration, at least to the uninformed such as myself. Is there any theoretical reasoning you can demonstrate as to why it wouldn't? Maybe you'll save me money and time that I would otherwise have wasted. Any help is appreciated.
 

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