CF-8A Universal 8AMP Automatic Voltage Regulator - Generator Parts

The automatic voltage regulator is an electronic device that is used to automatically maintain generator output terminal voltage. This is fixed at a set value under varying loads and operating temperatures. It controls the voltage by sensing the output voltage at the power generating coil and comparing it to a stable reference. A signal error is then used to adjust an average value of the field current. Many portable generators have fixed excitation and when an alternator is loaded the terminal voltage drops due to the internal impedance. An automatic voltage regulator stops this from happening and closely controls the voltage output.

Why use an automatic voltage regulator?

Almost all electricity supplied to commercial and domestic facilities is provided by a power supply company. There are a large number of customers on the line feed and they will draw different amounts of electricity at different times of the day or night. The voltage received by any customer will vary as other facilities draw power. This can adversely affect the voltage to a factory or an office and cause either a drop in power or a surge as a customer shuts off a large machine. Both of these can cause damage to electronic equipment. The surge will burst sensitive components that have a specific voltage requirement and a low voltage can heat these components until they become irreparably damaged. The cost to the owner of such equipment can be huge not only in having to replace damaged components or machines but in the time lost during such repair or replacement.

Specifications of a CF-8A Universal 8AMP Automatic Voltage Regulator

• Output current continuous is 6 Amps
• Resistance is a minimum of 10 Ohms and a maximum of 100 Ohms
• Unit power dissipation is a maximum of 8 Amps
• Frequency is 50 – 60 Hertz nominal
• Input current continuous is 2 Amps DC and 5 Amps for 10 seconds on start up

The unit is small in size and easily installed. It is sturdy and very durably making it an ideal way to receive a regular voltage supply.