The difference between an inverter generator and a gasoline generator. What are inverter gasoline electric generators

Inverter generators are commonly called autonomous power sources that are successfully used to generate high-quality electricity. In most cases, such equipment is used in the form of temporary or permanent ones, if the gaps continuous operation are insignificant. At the same time, inverter generators are recommended for instruments that are highly sensitive. In most cases, the equipment is successfully used in schools, hospitals and other government institutions where even minor jumps are prohibited electrical voltage.

Operating principles of inverter generators

Inverter generator You can only buy if the principle of operation is completely clear. Otherwise, exploitation can bring significant discontent and even turn out to be too dangerous.

An inverter generator is traditionally created on the basis of a special unit, which must include a microprocessor, a rectifier, and a converter.

So, what is the operating principle of an inverter generator?

There is the possibility of generating high-frequency alternating current.
The rectifier allows you to convert the resulting current into direct current.
It is assumed that current can be accumulated in capacitive filters, which are produced in the form of batteries.
There is an opportunity to stabilize the oscillations of electrical waves.
Inverter generators allow you to convert the energy that comes from capacitive filters into AC. In this case, it is assumed that the required frequency and voltage indicators will be achieved. Subsequently, AC power must be supplied to the end user. As a result of the working process, you can see an ideal sine wave, which guarantees that the quality of the received electricity is maintained at optimal level.

The above principles of operation make it possible to obtain a stable voltage, thereby guaranteeing protection for very sensitive devices. It should be noted that inverter generators can operate automatically.

The cost of refueling equipment can be halved thanks to full and constant control over the level of fuel, oil, as well as the performance of the running engine.

The design features of modern generators make it possible to guarantee a high level of equipment protection. For this purpose, a built-in air cooling system is traditionally used. However, if the load is reduced to a minimum level, an automatic transition to economy mode, as a result of which rapid wear of the equipment can be avoided and maximum service life can be guaranteed.

What are the important advantages of inverter generators?

Supposed supply only high quality current. Previously, simple household appliances were offered, and electronics were not popular. Nowadays, high-quality current is required everywhere, since only in this case can the successful and long-term service of digital electronics be guaranteed. Almost every type of equipment has delicate and vulnerable electronic components, as a result of which electrical voltage drops are unacceptable. Only inverter generators can guarantee high quality current.
Saving on fuel. It is assumed that the engine speed can be adjusted using automation, causing the inverter to automatic mode determines the amount of energy required to operate. As a result, excessive fuel consumption is completely eliminated.
Inverter generators boast compact dimensions. The microprocessor board does not require special windings or ventilation equipment large sizes. Dimensions are reduced by 2–3 times, but the functionality of the equipment is still maintained at a decent level. Reduced dimensions lead to weight reduction.
Minimum noise level, which is guaranteed thanks to a special protective casing. During operation, the equipment emits no more than 66 dB, which assumes there is no noise.
Resistance to external factors. The mechanism is protected from moisture and dust.

Disadvantages of inverter generators

Despite the numerous advantages, disadvantages also need to be noted.

High cost. Modern equipment is more expensive regular models. At the same time, the price turns out to be 2–2.5 times higher. Despite this, optimal savings in the future are guaranteed, because the equipment will not melt. Moreover, renovation activities will not be a frequent task.
Limited selection. Model range inverter generators turns out to be insignificant. Despite this, you can still find a suitable model.
Power limitation. Basically, the power of the equipment does not exceed 8 kW, but this is enough for everyday tasks. It should be noted that 1 kW is enough for going out into nature, 2 - 3 kW - for powering the most important electrical appliances, 5 kW - for a small private house, 7 - 8 kW - for a large residential building.

Despite the presence of certain disadvantages, you can understand whether this choice should be made or whether it is best to give preference to another proposal.

Interesting generator review:

Small-sized power plants for home use have become widespread due to the fact that with their help problems with power supply can be easily solved. Compact gasoline and diesel generators are used both to ensure uninterrupted power supply and to generate electricity in places where there are no power lines: at a construction site, at a picnic. The choice of consumers is complicated by the fact that there are several options for generators on sale:

Classic, using gasoline or diesel drive;
Inverter.

Both types operate on exactly the same principle: the work of the internal combustion engine is converted by a generator into an alternating current voltage of 220 V with a consumer power of up to several kW. The difference lies in the principle of stabilization of the output voltage parameters.

Design and operating principle

As already mentioned, both types of power plants have a similar design, which includes two main elements:

Internal combustion engine;
Alternator.

The electrical voltage of the AC mains must satisfy the following conditions:

Voltage level stability – 220V;
Frequency stability – 50Hz.

Failure to comply with voltage parameters may cause damage or inoperability of connected devices. This is especially true for voltage level stability. Deviation of the mains frequency may lead to disruption normal functioning devices that have AC motors in their design: circulation pumps for heating systems, compressors for refrigeration equipment.

Regular generator

In the classic version of the power plant, a gasoline or diesel engine rotates the rotor of an alternator. The alternating current voltage is removed from the stator windings and fed further to distribution panel power plants for distribution to consumers.

An increase in current consumption by the load causes a braking force on the generator rotor, thus reducing the rotation speed. As a result, the amplitude value of the voltage and its frequency decrease. Load reduction causes reverse effect. The most dangerous phenomenon is that with a sharp decrease in power consumption, voltage surges that reach dangerous values are possible.

Stabilization of rotation speed in classical devices is carried out in two directions. The rotation speed of the internal combustion engine is directly controlled by a centrifugal regulator, which regulates the fuel supply depending on the crankshaft speed. For finer adjustment, an additional stabilizing winding is provided in the generator stator, loaded onto a capacitor. As the frequency of the alternating voltage increases, the resistance of the capacitor decreases. Consequently, the load on the additional winding increases. An increase in the current of the additional winding causes the appearance of a braking magnetic field, which reduces the rotor speed. When the speed decreases, the process occurs in the reverse order. The braking field of the stabilizing winding decreases, the stator speed increases.

From these considerations, the conclusion follows that the main disadvantage of classical generators is that, regardless of the load size, the rotation speed of the crankshaft of an internal combustion engine must be constant. That is, maximum efficiency is achieved only in the mode maximum load. With minimal power from connected consumers, the engine will run in idle mode, wasting fuel.

Pay attention! Not recommended long work generator in low power consumption mode and at maximum mode, since both an underloaded and overloaded gasoline internal combustion engine can quickly fail.

An inverter generator uses the same principle of generating electricity. The difference is that the output voltage of the generator does not go directly to the consumer. First of all, the voltage is converted to DC using a rectifier, smoothed by a filter capacitor, and then supplied to the inverter for conversion to AC. The inverter includes powerful transistor switches controlled by a microcontroller circuit.

This construction scheme has the following advantages:

Rectification of the generated voltage from the generator completely eliminates surges in amplitude and frequency;
The microcontroller circuit of the control unit instantly responds to changes in amplitude and frequency, sending the appropriate control commands to the output switches.

The accuracy of adjusting the output voltage parameters of inverter generators is one of the highest.

This is not one of the advantages of an inverter generator. An equally important feature is high efficiency. This is based on the fact that there is no need to strictly maintain the speed of the crankshaft and generator rotor. Anyway, the alternating voltage is first rectified. This means that when working with a low-power load, the generator rotor rotates at a low frequency, and fuel consumption is minimal. The built-in rechargeable battery makes a big contribution to reducing fuel consumption, since part of the generated voltage is used to charge it, and the battery is put into operation either to compensate for peak surges in power consumption, or when operating at a minimum load, when its capacity is sufficient to operate the inverter converter. This solution reduces the limitation on long-term operation at low load while maintaining the reliability of the system as a whole.

Advantages of inverters

The increasingly widespread use of inverter devices is due to their high performance characteristics:

Low fuel consumption;
Small dimensions and weight;
High reliability;
Excellent output parameters, especially in terms of power quality.

Disadvantages of an inverter generator

Possessing excellent electrical parameters and high efficiency, inverter generators have disadvantages that should be taken into account when choosing:

High cost. A good inverter has a cost two to three times higher than that of a similar classic model;
Limited power. The permissible maximum power of most common models is no more than 5 kW;
You can also find 7 kW, but they are not yet very common, and their cost exceeds reasonable limits;
Difficulty in repairing in case of breakdown;
It is difficult to replace the battery if it fails.

Additional features

Many models of power plants have the ability not only to start manually, but also using an electric starter. This is important when using them in automatic power backup systems.

Most devices are equipped with protection against exceeding the permissible load current and sudden voltage surges. Often there is an additional outlet for selection low voltage DC.

Without exception, all devices have measuring instruments on the panel that allow you to control the value of the output voltage, and expensive multifunctional devices are equipped with liquid crystal displays that allow you to evaluate most parameters, including the output voltage shape, load size, battery charge level and the amount of remaining fuel. The inverter circuit contains a microcontroller, with the help of which all kinds of additional features control and management.

The variety of models on the market makes it difficult to choose the right device. Usually the first place is the value of the permissible load power. The following power data can help with this:

Traveling outdoors – up to 1 kW;
Eating the essentials household appliances in case of interruptions – 2-3 kW;
Power supply for a small private house or apartment - 5 kW;
Large house - 7 kW.

Pay attention! If mini-power plants are used in construction, their power must be at least one and a half times greater than the power of the connected power tool. So, if a grinder with a power of 2 kW is used, then at the moment of start-up the current consumption exceeds the rated one by 1.5-2 times. Therefore, the generator power must be at least 3 kW.

Which generator to choose, classic or inverter? It is sufficient to feed the vast majority of consumers. conventional device. The choice in favor of an inverter should be made in the following cases:

Frequent work with minimal load. The reason here is not only economics, but also a decrease in the reliability of a conventional device;
Requirement for high efficiency;
Minimum dimensions. Traveling into nature with a large power plant is difficult for obvious reasons.

A classic mini-power plant is more suitable if:

Work required powerful load(more than 5-7 kW);
Not expected long work with minimal load;
The dimensions of the device are not decisive;
The cost of the equipment is important.

A gasoline engine runs on high-octane gasoline, while a diesel engine requires the appropriate diesel fuel to operate. Sometimes you can find a power plant design that operates using liquefied gas.

Common Misconceptions

The most common misconception, which is strongly supported by manufacturers of inverter generators, is the supposedly poor shape of the output voltage.

Firstly, the voltage from the generator stator without connecting any kind of semiconductor converters, on the contrary, has an ideal sinusoid. This is due to the very principle of operation electric machines. Suffice it to remember that most power plants, hydraulic, thermal, nuclear, that is, based on the conversion of mechanical energy into electrical energy, operate on exactly the same principle as a home power plant. But semiconductor elements have a nonlinear characteristic, and obtaining a strict sinusoid using semiconductor converters, including inverters, requires great technical tricks.

Secondly, most modern consumers use built-in pulsed sources supplies that do not care about the shape and frequency of the voltage (within reasonable limits), since the first thing the power supply circuit contains is a rectifier and filter. Consumers such as irons, electric kettles and electric stoves generally do not care what voltage is supplied to the input. The only devices that care about the frequency and shape of the supply voltage are: asynchronous motors and transformers.

The second common misconception is related to the complexity of the design of inverter generators. Here we can say that this applies mainly only to products from little-known manufacturers that offer cheap equipment. Leading companies have developed inverter circuit solutions to perfection, using only high-quality components and perfect assembly lines. Electronic circuit the control and monitoring unit of inverter devices is protected from moisture and dust, therefore good devices They fail extremely rarely and, if the recommended requirements are met, can last quite a long time.

As for breakdowns of internal combustion engines, most designs use drives that have been tested for a long time and have high reliability and durability. Provided that the required and high-quality fuels and lubricants are used and regular maintenance (replacement of filters, spark plugs), engine failure is unlikely.

As has been shown, the correct formulation of the requirements determines which device design to give preference to. Both types have their own areas of application, advantages and disadvantages, but can often be interchangeable, so it is impossible to categorically say which is better. Currently, until prices for inverter devices drop to reasonable limits, most buyers are focusing on conventional devices that use a gasoline engine with an alternating current generator and a simple control circuit.

Video

The operating principle of the inverter generator is based on the use inverter system. It primarily involves pulse width modulation control, which is capable of producing electrical energy very good quality. All this became possible thanks to the adjusted output voltage with a stable frequency.

The operation of an inverter generator begins with the operation of a rectifier, which generates direct current from alternating current. Next, the pulsation is purified, which is stabilized by special filters. Then alternating current begins to appear in the bridge circuit with the help of transistors, as well as special switches. Some power plants additionally use thyristors. Output current parameters are controlled in all areas. As a result, the frequency will always be stable. The parameters of the feedback circuits are controlled by the inverter generator system.

Internal structure

The multipolar inverter type generator consists of two parts. The first block includes a rotor with three-phase network, which works as a permanent magnet in the system and additionally has a stator. The second part of the multipolar generator is called the inverter block. It consists of a rectifier, a filter, and a converting circuit that produces an alternating voltage. The process is monitored by a microcomputer.

Generator operation

When the generator starts, the rotor immediately begins to quickly gain speed. Rotation occurs directly near the stator. As a result, three-phase alternating current is generated. Next, it is sent to the inverter unit, where it passes through a rectification circuit, which equalizes the voltage and stabilizes its output. The converting circuit makes the voltage sinusoidal. As a result, alternating current is output from the inverter unit. The microcomputer is responsible for the current frequency signal and provides voltage parameters.

Inverter generator: reviews and benefits

Inverter gasoline power plants have a number of advantages. First of all, this is saving resources. The ignition system installed in inverter generators can significantly save fuel. This happens thanks to a well-thought-out control system that is fully automated. As the load on the generator increases, the engine speed will increase. When the loads are small, the power plant reduces speed and decreases. As a result, the economical mode can protect the system from overloading the inverter generator. Reviews about this function are only positive.

The second advantage of inverter generators is the type of connection between the system and the engine. Direct connection to the generator motor eliminates the need for additional installation of a flywheel. Ultimately, this affects the weight and size of the power plant. Without a flywheel, the generator weighs significantly less, which makes it easier to transport, and the small size of the device allows it to be installed almost anywhere.

All modern inverter-based gasoline power plants have an air-cooled engine. Thanks to him, the engine can withstand heavy loads for a long time. The noise reduction casing allows the inverter generator to be installed in close proximity to people. Customer reviews indicate the superiority of such a device over diesel power plants, which operate much louder. Some models of inverter generators have a double noise reduction system. Such a casing can reduce sound to a minimum even in powerful power plants.

It should also be noted that inverter generators are environmentally friendly. The fuel combustion system in the power plant is designed in such a way that emissions into the atmosphere from its operation are insignificant. As a result, the environment does not suffer, and people can safely use inverter generators for their homes without harming their health.

Inverter generator designs

In most cases, inverter generators for home have a durable housing. This is due to the fact that power plant structures are designed for frequent transportation and movement. All components and parts of the generator are reliably protected in the design. At the same time, they are all easily accessible for comfortable servicing.

Generators "Huter"

The Huter company is very popular and is considered a reliable manufacturer of inverter generators these days. Their difference from other manufacturers is their low fuel consumption even at high loads. An hour of continuous operation consumes no more than one liter of gasoline. The most popular model of the company is the inverter generator "Huter DN 2100". This power plant is at the level of 1700 W. At a frequency of 50 Hz, the generator produces a power of 2.1 kW. Equipped this model single-cylinder four-stroke engine with manual start. The rpm speed reaches 5000 per minute. Air system cooling allows you to withstand heavy loads. The dimensions of the power plant are small, and all this with a weight of 18 kg. Many have already managed to evaluate German quality and draw conclusions.

Inverter generators from Hyundai

Hyundai inverter generators stand out for their reliability. They are capable for a long time provide electricity to construction sites or industrial facilities. Among the company's many models, the Hyundai HY 1000si inverter generator is distinguished, which is famous for its stable voltage parameters. In addition, it has interesting design and small sizes. The rated power of this unit is 0.9 kW. At maximum power The 1.0 kW generator has a frequency of 50 Hz. A convenient display is provided for comfortable control. Sound insulation is at a high level, which allows it to be used near residential buildings. The engine cooling system is air. The weight of the generator is only 13 kg. One of the features of this model is the electronic controller, which not all gasoline generators have. The price of "Hyundai HY 1001000si" is 14,500 rubles.

Inverter generators "Weekender"

Inverter generators "Weekender" in lately became very popular. Among the many models of this company, the “Weekender X950” power station is in greatest demand. This gasoline generator has compact dimensions and a rather interesting design. Such a power plant is capable of supplying premises with electricity for a long time.

This model has found wide application in the construction industry. It can be easily installed in industrial facilities, and its maintenance is quite comfortable. For successful operation, there are various control modes for the system that the inverter generator has. Customer reviews indicate availability convenient sensors to avoid any overloads. Engine speed control is digital and can guarantee precise tuning. The capacity of the tank allows you to use the generator for a long time. This model has low fuel consumption, so it is very economical.

The maximum power of the power plant is 0.95 kW. IN offline mode The device can work for over 4 hours. With a rated power of 0.7 kW, the current frequency is 50 Hz. is at around 230 V, and this is considered a very high figure compared to similar generators. The engine of this model is a single-cylinder, four-stroke, air-cooled. The starting system is designed as a manual starter.

Noise insulation is also at a fairly high level. The protective casing allows the inverter generator to be installed close to people. At a distance of 10 meters the generator produces only 58 dB. The weight of this model is 8.5 kg with a length of 395 mm. Not all gasoline generators can boast of this. The price of "Weekender X950" is 23,400 rubles.

Inverter generators from Fubag

Fubag is known throughout Europe for its petrol inverter generators. All of them are designed to provide electricity to small spaces. This company produces very compact and silent models. Inverter generators "Fubag" are perfect for private houses, cottages, garages and sheds. The disadvantages of these power plants include their low power, which does not allow them to be used long time. They are not suitable for large construction sites or industrial facilities.

The most interesting model of the company is the Fubag TI 2600 power plant. The maximum power of this unit is 2.6 kW. The generator output voltage is 230 V with a rated power of 2.3 kW. At a distance of 10 meters, the Fubag TI 2600 produces only 65 dB. At a frequency of 50 Hz, the alternator has a current of 10 A. The four-stroke engine is equipped with an air cooling system. The power plant is started manually. There is an oil level sensor, but there is no voltage stabilizer or autostart unit. The fuel tank volume is only 4.6 liters, which does not allow this inverter generator to be used for a long time. The price of "Fubag TI 2600" is 33,412 rubles.

Inverter generators of the company "DDE"

Gasoline inverter generators from DDE are reliable sources of electricity. Most often they are used for private homes. They are able to maintain room lighting for a long time if there is a power outage. The DDE company pays special attention to the compactness of devices, but there are also large, powerful power plants. The inverter generator "DDE DPG1001Si" is perfect for a small summer cottage where there is no electricity. The maximum power of the device is 1 kW. With an output voltage of 230 V, the generator has a rated voltage of 0.9 kW. The difference between this model is the presence of an electronic voltage stabilizer, but the autostart unit is not built-in. The alternator in the system is single-phase and produces a current frequency of 50 Hz. The four-stroke engine is equipped with an air cooling system. The generator is started manually. The fuel tank capacity is only 2.8 liters, but the generator's consumption is low. This model weighs only 15 kg with a length of 450 mm. The noise-proof casing is available, and you can use this inverter generator comfortably. The price of "DDE DPG1001Si" is 32,121 rubles.

Generator "DDE DPG2101i"

They are produced in China and are distinguished by their excellent quality. AI-92 gasoline can be used as fuel. The volume of the power plant's fuel tank of 9 liters is sufficient for continuous operation of the generator for 5 hours at full power. The starting system is manual, using a starter. The generator type is single-phase with 2 16 A sockets. The rated power of the unit is 2.4 kW. The rated voltage of the device is 2.6 kW.

The weight of the DDE DPG2101i power plant is quite significant and amounts to 28 kg. However, the durable case can withstand heavy loads, and there will be no problems with transportation. The entire structure is designed so that there is easy access to the gasoline inverter generator. Customer reviews confirm that maintenance of the power plant is quite simple and does not require the intervention of specialists. You can control the entire process completely independently.

The DDE company pays special attention to safety, therefore all generators are equipped with a grounding system. The control panel is very convenient and contains all the most necessary controllers. To increase the level of noise insulation, a special exhaust pipe is provided. At a distance of 10 meters the generator produces only 67 dB. Special filters for cleaning fuel make it environmentally friendly. The air filtration system significantly reduces the emission of harmful substances into the atmosphere. As a result, the DDE DPG2101i generator causes virtually no harm to the environment.

Inverter generator "DDE DPG 3251i"

The generator "DDE DPG 3251i" is equipped with a powerful four-stroke engine. This is quite enough to provide electricity to premises and small construction sites. In order to use it, it is not necessary to involve a specialist. Installed system control allows you to completely independently control the entire process. All components and parts of the generator are available.

The weight of the power plant is only 30 kg with a height of 390 mm. The housing is very durable, which allows you to install the generator almost anywhere. Its advantage over diesel generators is the production of high quality electricity. High savings are also an undoubted advantage of this model. The rated power of the power plant is at around 3.0 kW, and maximum voltage equals 3.3 kW. AC voltage power station is as much as 230 V with a frequency of 50 Hz. Constant voltage is at around 12 V. The capacity of the fuel tank "DDE DPG 3251i" is 9 liters. Without refueling, it can operate continuously for over 7 hours. This model is started manually using a starter. The maximum engine power is 3 kW. Additionally, the kit includes a voltmeter. In general, the system is equipped with two 220 V sockets, and one 12 V output.

Increasingly in professional practice, and, even more so, in everyday life, inverter generators are used to perform welding work. They are much more compact than welding rectifiers and transformers, and provide almost the same functionality.

Operating principle

What does "inverter generator" mean? It implements a two-stage scheme for the formation of the main electrical parameters– current and voltage, guaranteeing stable burning of the welding arc. For power supply, a regular household power supply of 220 V is used.

What is the working principle of an inverter generator? The inversion (conversion) process is as follows. Alternating current with a frequency of 50 Hz is supplied to the primary stage, where it is converted into direct current. As a result, voltage ripples are smoothed out, which is very important when working in unstable household networks. After the rectifier, the current flows to a block of filters, which remove its amplitude component. The next stage performs inversion - the process of reverse conversion of direct current into alternating current. In this case:

The current frequency increases (twice or more compared to the original);
The current increases;
The arc voltage decreases.

The electrical circuit of the inverter generator is designed so that the final characteristics of the current - voltage, frequency and strength - are within the limits necessary for stable ignition of the arc and its subsequent stable combustion. To perform specified functions the scheme includes:

Primary, low-frequency rectifier.
Inversion block.
High frequency transformer.
Secondary, high-frequency rectifier.
Throttle.
Feedback block.
Control block.

In addition, the inverter generator device also includes a ventilation unit that provides cooling of circuit elements and temperature sensors. All this is housed in a housing equipped with ventilation holes.

A properly adjusted inverter generator should provide an output current of 50...150 A (depending on power) and a voltage of 27...35 V.

Welding inverter generator control

Inverter generators, the operating principle of which is based on double conversion of parameters electric current, assume the presence of the following mandatory functions:

Quick start (accelerated ignition of the arc), which allows an inexperienced user to ensure stable arc burning due to a short-term increase in operating current.
Auto-sticking protects the inverter from failure if a short circuit occurs during the welding process, in which the voltage drops to almost zero and the current goes to infinity. In such conditions, the inverter generator circuitry automatically turns it off.
Arc force - short-term increase welding current when the voltage decreases (up to 20...25 V). The function is used when welding thick sheet metal.
Voltage stabilization is essential when working from unstable networks (for example, in rural areas), as well as from an electric generator.
Sustainable use at different outdoor temperatures (high-quality models guarantee equipment operation in the range from -20 to +40 C).

A feature of the inversion process is a significant increase in temperature on the diode rectifiers, therefore the principle of operation of a 220 V inverter generator is to alternate the welding operating mode with periods of its shutdown. This is reflected in such a characteristic as the on-time (ON). For example, how does an inverter generator work, for which the duty cycle value = 0.6? This means that when welding is carried out continuously for 4 minutes, the machine will automatically turn off after 4/0.6 = 6.67 minutes. The specified values are set in the passport and determine the power of the device.

When choosing a standard size, actual performance is taken into account. It can be assessed by the following indicators:

In terms of efficiency: in an inverter generator device, the circuit of which is assembled on one electronic board, the efficiency does not exceed 75%. For two-board versions, efficiency can reach 90%;
The PV value stated in the passport: it must be within the range of 0.35...0.45;
Operability at sub-zero temperatures;
The difference between the rated and actual power consumed during operation.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages of an inverter generator:

Compactness: the weight of the unit does not exceed 10…12 kg, with dimensions no more than 500×200×300 mm, which allows the equipment in question to be used in any conditions.
Opportunity stable operation with significant fluctuations in voltage in the network: from 150 V to 240 V, while some standard sizes with a built-in power adjustment function allow welding work even at voltages up to 110...120 V.
Increased electrical safety: the units automatically turn off in the event of a dangerous voltage drop or overheating of the diode rectifier bridges.
The presence of the options discussed above, which make the work easier for a welder with insufficient qualifications or experience.

Disadvantages of inverter generators:

Limitation on the length of the power cable: its length should not exceed 4...5 m.
Dependence of actual productivity on the diameter of the welding electrode. For work with inverters, do not use electrodes with a diameter of more than 5 mm.
Reduced productivity with large volumes of welding work, which is due to periodic automatic shutdown unit in accordance with the passport value of PV.
Demanding conditions of application and use: for example, fast travel generator from one temperature condition to another is accompanied by the formation of condensation, which is dangerous for the performance of the control circuit.

Inverter generators are autonomous power sources that produce high-quality electricity. Basically, such devices are used as temporary or permanent (for short periods of continuous operation) power sources for particularly sensitive instruments.

The main facilities where these electrical units are operated are schools, hospitals and other institutions where even the slightest voltage surges are unacceptable.

Operating principle of inverters

You should not purchase an inverter generator whose operating principle is unclear to the user. The same applies to other devices.

The inverter generating set is based on a corresponding block. This unit consists of a microprocessor, rectifier and converters.

High frequency alternating current is generated;
The rectifier converts the resulting current into direct current;
Current accumulation occurs in capacitive filters (batteries)
Oscillations of electric waves are stabilized;
Using an inverter, direct energy from capacitive filters is converted into alternating current of the required frequency and voltage. This alternating current is supplied to the end user. In the process we see a perfect sine wave, confirming highest quality received electricity.

Such an inverter generator device allows you to obtain a very stable output voltage and connect any sensitive devices. The device operates automatically.

Thanks to constant control over the level of fuel, oil and engine speed, the cost of refueling the mini-power station is halved.
The built-in air cooling system protects electric generators from overheating.

When the load drops below the minimum, the unit automatically switches to economy mode. Thus, the wear of the electric generator is reduced and the service life is increased.

The main differences between inverters and other types of generators.

A classic electric generator is a device that uses hydrocarbon-based fuel as the main source of energy. The resulting energy is converted into electricity and sent to the end consumer.

Quality electrical energy generated by a conventional electric generator depends on the stable operation of the engine. The speed of its rotation must be constant. Therefore, with a change in operating mode, the efficiency of the electric generator may noticeably decrease. For example, when a 7 kW unit is used exclusively for watching TV or to power a 60-watt lamp.

A conventional generator always operates at one engine speed. An inverter generator can change the engine speed depending on current needs.

An inverter generator does not transmit electricity directly to the consumer. He collects it and stores it in a special built-in container (battery). First, high-frequency alternating current is produced, then it is converted to direct current and fills the batteries.

Thus, in electrical units of this type, the outgoing current is created from double conversion. The conversion process optimizes its performance. This is the main difference between an inverter generator and a conventional one.

Advantages and disadvantages of inverters from other types of generators

The main difference between an inverter generator and a conventional one is the quality of the output voltage and the ability to vary the loads. There is no need for constant engine speeds, therefore, at low loads, lower fuel consumption is possible. This is especially noticeable when the unit is lightly loaded.

Compared to analogues, the inverter design is very compact. This occurs due to the possibility of operating an engine with smaller parameters and dimensions. One more thing significant advantage such units have a minimum noise level.

Among the advantages, it is worth noting the compact dimensions of the inverters, as well as their low weight. This is achieved by transferring the rotor to the motor shaft. Such mini-power plants are ideal for short-term trips into nature, as well as for carrying out urgent work on construction sites.

Some inverters have additional features. For example, some models have two sockets, so you can power two devices independently.

The main disadvantage of an inverter electric generator is its high price. It far exceeds the cost of standard electric generators, whether gasoline or diesel.

Another drawback is the built-in battery. It has a very limited capacity and is not self-replaceable.

This disadvantage is that short-term connection of high-power electrical appliances (such as microwaves) or long-term operation of low-power devices such as electric lamps or TV, is possible only if the generator has a battery of suitable capacity. If the power of the appliances exceeds the battery capacity, the inverter will constantly shut down to charge the battery.

The main advantage of standard electric generators in comparison with inverters is a wide range of operating powers.

The maximum power of the inverter unit is limited by the volume of the battery and does not exceed 6 kW. The maximum power of a conventional generator is limited only by the engine power. For example, the power of some models of diesel mini-power plants exceeds 100 kW.

In addition, conventional mini-power plants are distinguished by the highest durability and reliability when used at their full declared power. The only condition in in this case is thorough and timely maintenance. In the case of inverters, it is better that the total power of the devices is slightly less than the maximum power of the generator.

Conclusions

Increasing the quality of electricity leads to a decrease in quantity. There are no inverter electric generators whose power exceeds 6 kW. If the total power of electrical appliances connected to the network is greater than or equal to this figure, uninterrupted power supply is not guaranteed.

However, if it is necessary to ensure completely uninterrupted power supply to low-power devices with low noise level and mobility of the generator, the best option There will be an inverter unit. Thanks to its compact size and light weight, the electric unit can operate even in the most inaccessible places where it is not so easy to install a conventional system.

Highly sensitive devices such as computers or household appliances. It is able to regulate the resource consumed depending on the current load, which leads to significant fuel savings. An inverter is an ideal solution for a private home and cottage.