Entries Tagged 'generators' ↓

I don't understand a thing about mechanics, but I am learning. I am trying to build a small (8ft*2ft) waterfall with a hydroelectric "dam" to supply current. I found all sorts of small motors on the web, but no alternators or generators. Can I used that motor to produce electricity? also, how do I hook it up with LED lights or other lights? Thanks

The problem with using the standard motor as a generator (especially those from automotives) is that they are intended to be turning a high rpm rates. for this reason most DIY builders try to get the motor from exercise treadmils; good voltages even at low speed. Another way to go about it is of coarse to use gears between the driven element and the generator or alternator.
There are many informative videos available on websites like Youtube, that will help with both generator and light hookups.

Actually, you can use almost any motor to generate electricity, Once it is turning at a reasonable rate, you hookit to a load and hit it with a spike of electricity, it will generate.

Cummins Inc (CMI – Analyst Report) this morning reported record sales and earnings for the second quarter on strong growth in nearly every global market. Three of the company’s four major business segments — Engines, Components, and Distribution — each delivered record sales and earnings.

the fourth segment, Power Generation, still delivered 28% revenue growth with sales of $909 million. Shares have been trading as high as $114, up over 7% to a two-month high on the news in early trade.

the global giant in diesel and natural gas engines earned $505 million, or $2.60 per share compared to $246 million, or EPS of $1.25 in the year-ago quarter. the Zacks Consensus Estimate, compiled from 15 analysts covering the company, called for EPS of $2.01. From the company press release…

“Second quarter sales were $4.6 billion, up 45 percent from the same period last year. Earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) were $775 million and included a $68 million gain on the sale of the exhaust business from our Components segment. Excluding the gain from the sale of the exhaust business, EBIT was $707 million, or 15.2 percent of sales, the highest level and percent of sales the company has reported in any quarterly period in its history.”

Earnings Beat Goes On

Excluding the gain on the sale, EPS of $2.41 represents a 20% earnings surprise from CMI over Wall Street expectations. In the first quarter, the company surprised analysts with a nearly 22% beat. even the second quarter of last year was a 40% beat.

This momentum does not appear about to slow down either as the company provided a robust outlook for the remainder of the year. Cummins today increased both its sales and EBIT forecast for 2011.

the engine dominator now expects to earn 14.5% EBIT on $18 billion in sales in 2011. This forecast excludes any current or future gains from the sale of businesses and exceeds previous expectations closer to $17 billion in revenues.

“The Company’s performance in the second quarter underscores the success of our long-term strategy to diversify and seek profitable growth across geographies and end markets,” says Tim Solso, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “As a result of our efforts over the last 10 years, Cummins is better positioned than ever to grow in this global economy.”

Because the World Needs Powerful and clean Engines

Cummins is named for Clessie Cummins, an auto mechanic and inventor who, with the financial support of Columbus banker-investor William Glanton Irwin was among the first to see the commercial potential of diesel engine technology.

the company’s major products include diesel and natural gas engines for on- and off-highway applications, power generating systems and standby generators, engine filters, advanced exhaust after-treatment products, turbochargers, and automotive fuel systems.

their customer base includes Chrysler, Daimler AG, Volvo, PACCAR (PCAR – Analyst Report), Navistar, CNH Global (CNH – Snapshot Report), Komatsu, Ford, and Volkswagen.

now the largest independent maker of diesel engines and related products in the world, Cummins is ready to dominate the next engine growth area when more trucks that run on natural gas are demanded by energy- and environmentally-conscious countries, businesses, and consumers around the world. See my article “Naked Put Trades: CMI and WPRT” for more on this innovation.

And Emerging Markets Fuel Opportunities

Cummins has operations in more than 190 countries and territories worldwide, with 60% of its sales generated outside the United States. They are a leading maker of diesel engines and related products in China, India, Brazil, the United Kingdom, and Mexico.

as I write about here almost weekly, Emerging Markets growth in terms of population, urbanization, transportation and related infrastructure is a driving force of new profits for companies like Cummins, Caterpillar (CAT – Analyst Report), and Eaton (ETN – Analyst Report). See my article from Monday “Industrial Strength Power” for more on that story.

CMI currently holds a Zacks #1 Rank (strong buy) for its earnings momentum. it will likely maintain this top spot as analysts now will spend the next week or so revising their current estimates upward after the company’s strong forward guidance.

Global Citizen, Tons of Discipline

From the company website, I offer below examples of its outstanding citizenship. These may not be a factor in their business strategies and growth, but they probably don’t hurt too much when it probably pays to maintain your reputation as a good guy to do business with in 190 different countries.

Cummins was named one of the world’s most ethical companies by Ethisphere magazine in 2010 and 2011, and was named to the Dow Jones World Sustainability Index for the sixth straight year in 2010.

Cummins was named to Corporate Responsibility magazine’s list of “Best Corporate Citizens” for the 11th year out of the last 12 in 2011.

Cummins China was a finalist for the Award for Corporate Excellence given by the U.S. State Department each year to foreign operations of U.S.-based companies for their work in corporate responsibility.

In January 2007, Cummins became the first company to meet the 2010 U.S. EPA emissions standards for nitrogen oxides with its 6.7-liter turbo diesel engine made for the Dodge Ram pickup.

Cummins helped create and continues to support the only all-women’s engineering college in India.

all in all, it looks like Cummins is poised to continue its domination of global markets for industrial-strength diesel engines. all eyes will be on the market for natural gas engines in the coming years to see if they own that one too.

Kevin Cook is a Senior Stock Strategist for Zacks.com

Read the full analyst report on WPRTRead the full analyst report on PCARRead the full analyst report on CMIRead the full analyst report on CATRead the full analyst report on ETN

I have a new portable electric generator and I want to use it from the back of my work van without having to pick it up and place it on the ground each time. There is a rubber heavy duty mat covering the back of the van's floor.

Also, what type of oil do I use in the generator? the manuel(I'm not kidding) just say's "oil", without giving what kind of oil.

Generally they use 30 wt oil.

You might try using a chain attached to the generator frame that you could toss on the ground. Pouring a little water on the ground on the chain to complete the grounding might be wise as well.

best bet is a cable with a long spike on the end.

Kohler’s relationship with the popular ABC television series spans over eight years

April 15, 2011 11:14 AM Eastern Daylight Time 

KOHLER, Wis.–(EON: Enhanced Online News)–For eight years, Kohler has partnered with the popular television series “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”, which provides home renovations for deserving families. In total, the company has been involved in 621 bathrooms, 226 kitchens and 113 powder rooms making up 185 homes over eight years on the show.

“To be able to play a part in changing a family’s life by helping renovate their home is incredibly rewarding. seeing our products make everyday life easier and more enjoyable for these families is exactly what Kohler’s mission of gracious living is all about.”

“Kohler is extremely proud of its longstanding relationship with ‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,’” said Todd Weber, communications director of product public relations for Kohler co. “To be able to play a part in changing a family’s life by helping renovate their home is incredibly rewarding. seeing our products make everyday life easier and more enjoyable for these families is exactly what Kohler’s mission of gracious living is all about.”

the Hall family, of Wichita, Kan., will be the next family to benefit from Kohler’s partnership with the ABC television series. the “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” featuring the Halls, will be airing on ABC this Sunday, April 17, at 8:00 p.m., Eastern Time.

Hall Family

nearly one year ago, a car accident left Carl Hall, husband and father of four, paralyzed from the shoulders down. Prior to the accident, Carl’s life had been a genuine slice of Americana – a three sport athlete in high school, an All-American baseball player in college, married to his high school sweetheart, and father of wonderful and athletic kids. but in a single instant, the Hall’s family life was flipped upside down and they are now dealing with the possibility that Carl, the family’s primary provider, may never walk again.

unfortunately, the Hall family’s two story split-level house is now inaccessible to Carl. He’s currently unable to get past the entrance because there are stairs leading up and down immediately upon entry. the renovation on the home by the “Extreme Makeover” crew will allow the Hall family to live together in a safe and accessible space.

Kohler’s contribution to the Hall’s renovation will be a 20-kW standby generator and Elevance Rising Wall bath. Since millions of American homes lose power for hours – or even days – at a time each year, Kohler’s 20-kW standby generator will help ensure that the electrical equipment, which is critically important to Carl’s everyday health and movement, remains fully operational. In the case of Kohler’s Elevance Rising Wall Bath, the stylish alternative to walk-in baths will provide Carl with more independence in the bath, allowing him to enjoy a comfortable and safe bathing experience.

About Kohler Power Systems:

Kohler Power Systems is a division of Kohler co., and provides complete power systems, including generators (residential, industrial, mobile and marine), automatic transfer switches, switchgear, monitoring controls, and accessories for emergency, prime power and energy-management applications. Kohler Power Systems has delivered energy solutions for markets worldwide since 1920. for more information, please visit KohlerSmartPower.com.

About Kohler co.:

Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wis., Kohler co. is one of the nation’s oldest and largest privately held companies. Kohler is a global leader in the manufacture of kitchen and bath products, engines and power generation systems, cabinetry, tile and home interiors, and international host at its award-winning hospitality and world-class golf destinations.

About Extreme Makeover: Home Edition:

the Emmy award winning reality program “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” now in its 8th season, is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. It’s executive-produced by Brady Connel and George Verschoor. David Goldberg is chairman, Endemol North America. the show airs Sundays from 8:00 – 9:00 pm ET on ABC.