Message text written by Bob labuz
>Ok if your amp calculations are correct why did the Lucas engineers
deliver a generator that could not even keep up with the load? Is 19
amps the best they could get? or was it a cost issue?
<
As was already pointed out, it was good enough. The theory is based on the
fact that not all loads are always on. They could be, I suppose, but
typically they aren't. The other thing to keep in mind is that the 19 amps
isn't a hard and fast rule. It is the maximum current that can be safely
drawn from the generator on a continuous basis at a given ambient
temperature and resulting in generator degredation at a given rate. The
max safe continuous current at reduced ambient (say cold enough to require
use of the heater) is higher and probably by a significant margin.
Exceeding the limit won't result in instantaneous destruction, it will
cause more rapid brush wear and accelerated degredation of the insulating
varnish on the windings.
The point at which the generator stops putting out is controlled by the
regulator. My 65 MGB had a three coil regulator and one coil had the sole
function of limiting current. The setting on this coil determined the max
current and if it was set to 21 amps the generator would put out 21 amps.
And the 19 amp generator would probably be happy since the 21 amp load only
occurs when the weather is cold enough to require the heater.
The regulator in the TR2-4 has a different configuration and I am not very
familiar with it but I believe that the voltage coil incorporates a current
coil and a heavy load will cause the regulator to regulate to a lower
voltage so overloading the electrical system will cause the voltage to sag
but the still keep up the demands of the system (within reason).
Batteries are not particularly happy with this environment but then one
expected to replace it every couple of years anyway.
The system is less than optimal but good enough and about as inexpensive as
they could manage. Life is a series of compromises.
Cheers
Dave Massey
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