Absolute independence with an AC generator set

If you prefer not to be entirely dependent on your propulsion engine or a shore connection for onboard power, Mastervolt has an extensive range of AC diesel generators for you to choose from. All are ultra-quiet, compact, easy to install and unfailingly reliable. You can use a washing machine/dryer, an air-conditioning system and any other appliances that makes life easier, including a (safer) electric cooker. At the same time, the generator recharges your batteries quickly and fully, enabling you to switch back to silent inverter power for the rest of the day.

Small, silent and easy to install

Before we begin, a few words about generator sets in general. Although you will find a wide choice of diesel and petrol generators available at different prices, most are unsuitable for use onboard a vessel:

	Petrol is dangerous for onboard use and therefore not recommended;
	Most diesel gensets are designed for use on land or in cargo ships and as a result are far too large;
	Most sets have little or no sound insulation and are therefore far too noisy;
	Many gensets are produced for a regional market and therefore lack international service, while spare parts are difficult to find. That is why buying a DC generator set can cause problems later on.

Two types of generator

The International METS design award was won by Mastervolt for the Whisper product range.

There are two different types of generator available for a whole range of uses. Corresponding with a fixed frequency of 50Hz for 230V alternating current as used in Europe, generators operate at a fixed speed (indicated in rpm or revolutions per minute) - either 3000 or 1500. For generators operating at 117 V/ 60 Hz these values will be 3600 resp. 1800 rpm. Half a sine wave is generated every time one of the rotor’s coils goes through the magnetic field of the stator. A 3000rpm generator has two coils, which together produce a whole sine wave: 3000 revolutions per minute divided by 60 seconds equals 50Hz. A 1500rpm generator has four coils to achieve the same result. A relatively large and heavy diesel engine is needed to generate a certain amount of power at a low rpm. The alternator itself will also be heavier due to its four-pole construction (4 coils). On the other hand, however, this type of engine is durable and quiet thanks to its low rpm and heavy construction. It will probably run for more than 20,000 hours before needing an overhaul. Generator sets such as these are used in the professional shipping sector and for vessels intended for permanent use, i.e. rental purposes. If the generator is to be continually operated, we recommend the 1500rpm Whisper, provided you have enough space for installation. A generator set operating at double the speed (3000rpm) is almost half the size and weight of its slower cousin, costing less yet producing the same amount of energy. This is ideal for vessels with limited space or in projects where low weight is important, for example on catamarans or fast sailing/motoryachts built for speed.

Spare parts
Your generator set is an investment that will last many years so it is crucial that spare parts provision is in good hands. Mastervolt supplies all parts for regular maintenance (filters, impellers, etc.) plus parts for repairs and overhauling. Three different service kits are available, starting with A-kits for regular maintenance. As well as covering simple repairs, the more comprehensive B-kits contain spare parts for the water pump, etc. Those embarking on a world cruise and wanting to cover every eventuality can opt for the C-kit, which includes a complete set of gaskets.

Tip: Order your maintenance kit at the same time as your new generator.

Compact as possible
Mastervolt has developed a special technique for keeping Whisper generators as compact as possible. Integrated cooling allows the entire set to be enclosed by a specially designed polyester sound shield with an insulation layer. This offers drastic reductions in the noise level (expressed in decibels). A unique watercooled exhaust system keeps both exhaust temperatures and noise levels low. In order to save space, all services are connected outside the sound shield as much as possible. 1500 rpm units are powered by water-cooled diesel engines and a fan-cooled alternator section.

Standard features of all Whisper gensets

	Polyester sound shield (ultra-quiet);
	Digital Diesel Control full microprocessor based engine and AC control;
	Advanced digital remote control panel with hour meter; compatible with the Mastervolt panel system. A second control panel can be easily linked;
	Standard automatic start/stop system;
	15 metre remote control cable with connectors;
	Second start/stop panel on the engine;
	Automatic shut-down if oil pressure is too low, with fault indication;
	Automatic shut-down if temperature is too high, with fault indication;
	Automatic shut-down if run dry (broken impeller or blockage) with fault indication;
	Load indication in percentage and in kVA, Amps, Volts, Frequency with overload alarm;
	Corrosion-free injection bent (bronze);
	Cooling of combustion air;
	Electric fuellift pump;
	Direct drive (sea)water pump;
	Oil sump pump;
	Fully CE compliant;
	User’s manual and installation instructions in four languages (Dutch, English, with French and German coming up).