What size should an electric generator have if I have 35 engines 1 HP each?
While the nameplate of each motor might be 1 HP, the load can be far different. Most motors are only loaded to a fraction of their nameplate rating. The starting inrush of a 1 HP motor might be 5-7 times the running load. As long as the motors are not started simultaneously, you can probably use the following calculations: 1) Assume the motors are loaded to nameplate. 2) 1 HP = 0.746 kW 3) Assume the load for each motor is 0.746 kW 4) 35 motors x 0.746 kW per motor = 26 kW 5) Factor in the inrush requirements of the last motor being started by adding another 6 x 0.746 kW = 4.4 kW 6) 26 kW + 4.4 kW = 30.4 kW Look for a 30 kW generator and you’re good to go.
