Aquagen + Aerogen setup

[gfbalduc]

I just bought an Aquagen to complement my already existing Aerogen.

According to the manufacturer's instructions, both devices need the funny - and bulky - LVM regulator (with dissipator resistors), so considering that the to generators will normally be used one at the time, I'm considering connecting the Aquagen to the input of the already existing Aerogen's regulator.

Question: can it be done? Do I risk pumping electricity into the non-operating generator? Would that do damage?

Has anybody done that?

Or, alternatively, has anybody a (working) e-mail address for LVM tech support? (their web site has last been updated in last millennium, and the provided contact address is no longer valid!).

Thanks in advance,

 

[Anonymous]

I don't know but would comment that just because someone has done it doesn't make it safe. You have correctly identified the problem and I suspect that the active unit would feed into the inactive unit unless diodes are in place. BUT...we are talking about rotating machines and these can produce high voltage spikes so it is possible that even if there is a diode in place, it could be over-volted by spikes.

So while it is very possible that you will be able to do this I would urge you to check it with someone who has both the circuits and the necessary competence or the manufacturer, and not accept the 'done that and it works fine for me' sort of reply.

 

[gfbalduc]

Agreed, of course.

Problem is, how do I contact the manufacturer?

Funny how still nowadays companies selling their product internationally do not bother to keep their websites up-to-date and to provide contact informaton (LVM is definitely not the only one).

Not all international customers are comfortable with discussing technical matters in a foreign language, over a long-distance phone call. E-mail is a much better option for that.

 

[macd]

There's a link for e-mailing them on: http://www.lvm-ltd.com/contact%20us.htm
Or the old fashioned ways:
Old Oak Close, Arlesey, Bedfordshire, SG15 6XD, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1462 733 336 Fax: +44 (0)1462 730 466

 

[Anonymous]

Have a look at LVM wiring diagrams and in particular note:-

Does that suggest that you can wire-and them with a schottky diodes? Depends whethe the Aquagen has the same characteristics as the Aerogen but then they sell the same regulator for both. It's as far as I can take it and I am not 100% certain. Good luck!

 

[gavin_lacey]

If you use a DPDT (double pole double throw) switch you could choose which generator was connected to the regulator. The unused generator would be electrically isolated.

 

[steveallan]

Try this

http://www.unlimited-power.co.uk

 

[Redmond]

I use a stabdard LVM diode arrangment with boh the airogen 3 and my aquagen connected together and feeding into it. LVM said as long as I didnt exceed 20 amps it would be fine. so far it has been. I was proposing to connect a solar panel to the same arrangement. lvm phone no +44 (0)1462 733 336 Fax: +44 (0)1462 730 466

 

[gfbalduc]

Thanks all for the inputs.

I was aware of the link on the website, problem is it points to a specific person's mailbox, and it does not work!

In fact, looking carefully at the wiring diagram for dual aqua+solar installation, the way the diode is inserted leads to thinking that the solar panel may draw current from the generator (hence the diode), but not vice-versa (as it should be, given the presence of the rectifier-diodes in the generator's circuitry).

Using a switch is not a safe option, because the generator which is switched off (i.e. open-ended) may be damaged if operated without switching it in.

Looks like it's fax- or phone call-time, then!

 

[Anonymous]

Yes, I agree. BTW, I meant 'wire-or' them, not 'wire-and' them, but you knew that, I reckon, though other readers might not!

 

[pappaecho]

Solar panels usually have a diode built in to prevent reverse current problems like you describe - known as a "blocking diode"