newbie - listeriod running on WVO, grid tie info required

[jamesroy]

Hi all,

I've been watching the forum for a while, and found it a great resource (and source of amusement )

I was trying to get my head around the theory of grid linking a listeroid engine which I've currently got powering an off grid system. How do you place a static load onto the generator (say 3kW)?  - currently the engine is managed at constant revs so any load put on the gen is matched with appropriate throttle control - this obviously can't work for a grid link system. What sort of kit is required to manage the demand  ?

Cheers,

James

[guydewdney]

any GTI will have a programmable power curve. The aurora magnatek power-one thing i have is fully adjustable, and could happily give a constant 3.6kw load to a genny.

simplified (and not quite right) diagram:-

genny---rectifier----GTI----consumerunit----outside world


also see http://www.listerengine.com/

[Alan]

hello James

Quote “currently the engine is managed at constant revs so any load put on the gen is matched with appropriate throttle control “

How is it managed, by automatic control that senses the generator voltage and a solenoid valve moving the throttle speed control. Or is it Man u matic

That is all that is required for grid connect using a grid connect inverter.

The aurora magnatek power-one inverter is a very nice inverter.

They do a 3.6 or 6 K.W. one.

If the generator is three phase

As Guy said all that is needed is a bridge rectifier and grid isolation switch.

If it is single phase a bridge rectifier and grid isolation switch.
And a few capacitors to reduce the ripple slightly are all that’s required.

Regards

Alan

[Ivan]

I've got a lister CS with grid-tie inverter. Never got round to using it yet, though. It just needs a twin fuel tank setup and it'll be operational. No hurry at present, as I'll only use it in the winter, when I need the heat. You're welcome to come and look at it if you're anywhere near Monmouth.

[jamesroy]

Guy - thanks I'll look through the Aurora specs, seems like a good solution (though quite expensive)

Alan - The solenoid valve controlling the throttle body is controlled by the genny voltage. I was wondering what determines the size of capacitor(s) required, and how would I test how "clean" the output is?

Ivan - Cheers for the offer. I'm based in North London, so I'll get in touch next time I've got a paddling trip planned over your way.

Thanks all for the guidance (insert imaginary thumbs up emoticon here)

James

[Ivan]

I suspect that most good grid tie inverters will work with a generator. For the SMA grid tie inverter, the best option would be to set it to 'constant voltage' mode. Basically, it will increase or decrease the load on the generator to try to keep the voltage constant (at whatever voltage you've chosen).