What size generator? (just about boaty)!

[Avocet]

I want to run a 2hp compressor (single phase) from a petrol generator. I borrowed a 2kW generator from a mate, but it won't start the compressor. The compressor motor starts to turn and buzzes a bit, then the generator's overload light starts flashing.

I'm guessing that the startup current is a bit more than the 2kW the generator can supply?

Does anyone know what sort of size of generator I'd need to be able to allow the compressor to cut in and out?

Ta!

 

[Marsupial]

I want to run a 2hp compressor (single phase) from a petrol generator. I borrowed a 2kW generator from a mate, but it won't start the compressor. The compressor motor starts to turn and buzzes a bit, then the generator's overload light starts flashing.

I'm guessing that the startup current is a bit more than the 2kW the generator can supply?

Does anyone know what sort of size of generator I'd need to be able to allow the compressor to cut in and out?

Ta!

my 1.5kva compressor needs a 4 kva genny to start it

 

[SHUG]

2HP is equivalent to about 1.5Kva which may well be the consumption once it is running but to start up may take more than double that as indicated above.

 

[boatmike]

Correct! The other alternative is to use a "soft start" circuit on the motor that will reduce the spike on startup considerably.