Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re Power Supply

Hi,

Contrary to popular belief electricity generation by alternator is not free and the laws of physics still apply i.e. power in = less power out.

I doubt few lathe users on this list have machines large enough to drive an alternator never mind two. You will notice a huge reduction in mileage during the winter months because of heaters, rear window heaters, wipers and more use of lights. In fact anything up to 10% of a cars power can disappear by generating electricity for normal use, I shudder to think how much fuel is used running the boom boxes the young like to deafen themselves with.

There are also other considerations other than the required power. Alternators are 3 phase machines containing 9 diodes, which rely on having a battery and voltage regulation to pad the system. I've had more than 50 volts from them but the usual voltage for charging the cars electrical system is 14.4 volts.

My local starter motor and alternator repair shop uses a 2 hp motor and belt to test alternators and the motor slows down considerably when the belt is tightened.

Regards,

Terry

>Just a thought, has anyone used an old car alternator belt driven off
>the lathe spindle motor ? The cost would be virtually nothing and you
>could run 2 in series for 24 volts. The only disadvantage I can see
>is that you couldn't test toolpaths without the spindle running. Would
>any other equipment be needed ( capacitor, etc. )

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