32 and 36 volt systems

[Benjamin]

A person mostly hears about 12, 24, or 48 volt setups.  Let's hear from those of you who have used or are using 32 or 36 volt.  Maybe even pictures if you've got them!

Thanks for the input.

Benjamin

Resectioned to storage.

[hiker]

check out--http://wincharger.com/-

[hiker]

       

                 http://wincharger.com/

[wpowokal]

Benjamin, I am old enough to remember our 32v power system down on the farm here in Australia, when mains power was in cities only.

I can remember a small generator/motor with batteries (just), in later years a generator only, driven by a single cylinder Sothern Cross diesel. One had to hold down the stop until it had completly stopped, ie all lights dark with only the kero lamp to show the way, and the boogy man was always lurking.

OK so the here and now, I use some 32v gear for my 24v system. Basically as I see it if one is into inverters its 12/24/48V. 50v is the upper limit for the average joe here in OZ above that one needs to be licenced, all for good reasons.

If I may ask what is your interest in obscure voltages?

allan down under

[wooferhound]

Why not use 42 volts ?

Here is a very detailed 2003 article from Car Audio Magazine

that describes the change to 42 volt car systems and the

Advantages . . .

http://www.caraudiomag.com/features/0307cae_42volt/index.html

[wdyasq]

It is what we call a '36V' system woof.

Ron

[redeyecow]

 I've been running a 32V Delco single cylinder for about 30 yrs.  I use 3 salvaged 12v bats in series. It charges the 36V bat. at about 25-30 amps. , no regulator, all or nothing. Works well on most salvaged batteries for about 6 mo. I have a collection of antique 1/4hp and 1/3hp and one sweet little 1/8hp motor. Since they're dc motors, they are much stronger than the rating, especially with the genny running. For lights I use 32v electric trolly bus bulbs or  12V,20w halogens in series attached to a screw type adapter. Makes a very bright light. When the lights get too bright, I shut the generator down.  The Halogens are very tolerant of over voltage but the regular type bulbs tend to burn out sooner. The Delco runs on gasoline, propane, kerosine. or various mixtures with gasoline. I can always find something to run it, if I run out of regular gas. Hope to get a wind generator on top of my little valley in the future. Still collecting materials and knowledge.

[Benjamin]

Thanks for the comments!

The reason for the interest?  I was inspired by a friend of mine who lived off grid and ran most everything on 32/36 volts, including his machine shop.  

32 volt equipment is fairly easy to locate in this area so why not use what's readily available.  I'm ready to get started, just have to wait for the ground to thaw before I can dig the tower anchors.

I know there are more guys out there using this odd voltage so thanks to those who relied.  I enjoy hearing about it!

Benjamin

[partgypsy]

I am starting to really get used to the 32vdc system on my boat. The problem is that many items I need are really hard to find in 32v... only their 12 volt counterparts. I have a question. I don't understand why I can't use a 12 volt switch to control a 32 volt device. A switch on makes a contact. If anything, the wire should be heavier in a 12 v item than in a 32 v. What am I missing?

[TomW]

gypsy;

I am no expert.

I think the main issues would be arcing between the contacts. It will be worse on higher voltages. It can create issues with carbon on the contacts and in extreme cases may not fully break the circuit when "off"

Personally, I would not be too concerned with the difference between 12 and 32 or 36 volts. I am comfortable trying things and watching for problems. Decades of electronic and electricity experience give me the confidence to recognize problems. Best is probably to use properly rated devices for your situation, however.

Cheers.

TomW

[spinningmagnets]

I know this isn't RE, but...

36 volts seems to be the common standard for factory stock electric bikes and add-on kits. 48 volts is the most common upgrade for these simple DC motors (higher top speed). Lots of info on odd voltage LED and halogen hacks for headlights with low draw.

I read somewhere the 36-volt battery/42-volt alternator has been put on hold. Every major car manufacturer was planning on phasing it in. There was talk of making the flywheel a starter-motor/alternator. There is a Chevy that now has electric steering to eliminate the power steering pump. It was shown that at 36-volts, solenoids could be strong enough to activate the valves (and still be small enough to fit), eliminating cams and timing belts.