Henry,
We had the same misgivings about the
Fischer Panda "i" series of generators. The "i" stands for
inverter. These units can run at variable engine speeds (up to 3600 rpm) and by
using an inverter, invert the varying DC
power produced to AC at the required hertz. This means the generator can be
smaller and lighter and the inverter is mounted separately normally under one
of the aft beds. The complexity of this system results in more problems.
Fischer Panda are not the only manufacturers to use this system. Any generator
using this "inverter" system are more prone to problems. Our marine
electrician back home suggested using a fixed engine speed generator which run
at either 1500 or 3000 rpm to produce 50 hertz AC (1800 or 3600 rpm to
produce 60 hertz AC).
Generally larger generator drive motors
run at 1500 rpm for 50 hertz or 1800 for 60 hertz. Your Onan example is
probably one of the lower fixed speed units but they do offer a 2880 rpm model in tour power range. Due to the lower drive engine rpm
the drive engine needs to be larger/more KW so these units are larger and
heavier.
The FP 10,000i = weighs 120kg + 12kg
for inverter, variable rpm
The FP 10,000NE= weighs 178kg, 3000 rpm
fixed, drive engine capacity =600cm3
The FP PMS-HD9.4kva= weighs 252kg, 1500
rpm fixed, drive engine capacity =1123cms
Cummins QD MDKBM 11kva =weighs 315kg,
1500 rpm fixed
Cummins QD MDKBL 9kva = weighs 272kg, 1500
rpm fixed
Although we wanted to fit the Fischer Panda PMS-HD09.4 (1500
rpm) after discussion with Hanse they advised this model would not fit in the
area and still offer access to the service and maintenance points on the unit.
So we ended up with the FP 10,000NE (3000 rpm) which offers access to the
service points. There is nothing wrong with the Onan generators but I would
think it will not fit in the space available and still offer access for service and maintenance.
Wayne's World
------------- Wayne W Cruising, currently in the Caribbean and will head across the Pacific early 2024
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