PTO Generators
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PTO - Power Take-Off Generator
For those who own and work the land, getting power to far flung parts of your property can be a problem. Do you have a tractor? Problem solved! A power take-off generator (PTO), can get power out there where you need it. PTO generators connect directly to the driveshaft of your tractor to generate electricity. Run power tools way out on the range, far from any wall sockets, and without carrying unnecessary equipment. When storms knock out the power to your property, peace of mind comes from having reliable backup power.
Our Power Take-Off Generators have 100% copper windings, run bi-directionally and have thermal overload protection. Designed for small tractors to run at 6% or less total harmonic distortion. Made with material designed to work outdoors (like you). Easily transport your PTO generator with a utility trailer (sold separately).
Things to Consider When Choosing a PTO Generator Engine Size (Horsepower)-This is the most important step in sizing your PTO generator. You'll need to match to the horsepower of your tractor's engine. You'll need 2 HP to produce 1 kW of electricity. For example, 50 HP engine would be required to produce 25 kW of power. Engine Speed (RPM)- PTO shafts run at two different speeds either 540 or 1000 rpms. If your tractor has just one speed, buy the corresponding 540 or 1000 rpm PTO generator. Electrical Phase- PTO generators produce two types of electricity: Single-Phase or Three-Phase. Single-Phase electricity is the same as you would get from a wall socket. Three-Phase electricity is for higher-powered usage, 208 or 480 volts.
Simpler than a gas engine, you'll be surprised at how easy PTO generators are to maintain. There are models that are brushless generators with maintenance-free bearings to make upkeep a nonissue. Home standby generators are much more expensive than a PTO generator with equivalent power output. It's basically the most powerful portable generator possible.
PTO Generators Frequently Asked Questions:
What is a PTO generator, and how does it work?
PTO Generators, or Power Take-Off Generators are a great back-up power source that is primarily used to power tools and machinery on the farm or ranch. A tractor serves as the engine of the generator, while the PTO (power take-off drive shaft) serves as the generator’s alternator, together producing a mobile power plant that can provide electricity just about anywhere a tractor can go. This power producing source is also a great back-up power source for homes and small businesses.
What are the benefits of using a PTO generator over other types of generators?
The two major benefits of using a PTO generator are: 1) Initial setup costs and operational costs are fairly low if you are using a tractor that you already own to power the unit, plus you have one less engine that will need to be maintained/serviced on a regular basis. 2) Easy transport to where the generator is needed — a PTO generator can be driven on the tractor straight out into the field or straight to a work site without worrying about bulky, heavy lifting or finding some other way of moving the generator across rough terrain to the work area.
Can a PTO generator be used with any type of tractor or vehicle?
Usually the engine used to drive a PTO generator is a tractor, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be a tractor engine doing the work. The generator could be paired with the engine of a truck or some other large vehicle, instead. The major factor is that the generator is hooked up to a compatible engine that drives the system and PTO system can act as the alternator. When combined, the equipment can generate electricity at a rate of approximately 1 kW of electricity per 2 HP of engine (i.e., a 40 HP engine can produce approximately 20 kW of power).
What are the maintenance requirements for a PTO generator?
There are many basic precautions that should be taken prior to the operation of a PTO generator. Before starting, ALWAYS read all safety precautions and warnings in the product manual and make sure you understand them and follow them closely. Don’t stand in water while working on any electrical device. Keep hands, other body parts and clothing away from exposed PTO shafts, pulleys, belts and other moving parts. Don’t operate in enclosed spaces where engine air flow might be obstructed, or carbon monoxide gasses can accumulate. Don’t operate at excessively high drive speeds. And be sure to keep a fire extinguisher nearby at all times during operation. In addition, individual PTO generators may have additional precautions and recommendations specific to each product that should also be followed.
Learn more about how to get the most out of your PTO generator by reading the How To Maximize PTO Generator Efficiency + Power article.
