At AP Electric & Generators, we want to make it easy for you find the perfect generator for your needs. As such, we have developed this guide to walk you through the process.
Power Take-Off (PTO) Generators
PTO generators run with your tractor to create electrical power. Your tractor serves as the engine, and the PTO does the rest by serving as an alternator.
PTO generators are primarily used to power farm and ranch tools and machinery, but they can also serve as backup power sources for your home or small business.
Sizing A PTO Generator
Size
- First and foremost, you must choose the right PTO unit size to meet your needs.
- This is done primarily by selecting a PTO unit that matches your tractor’s horsepower (HP).
- Your generator requires roughly 2 HP to produce 1 kW of electricity, so when selecting the right PTO unit size for you, keep in mind that your tractor’s horsepower will translate into half as many kilowatts produced by your generator.
Speed
- Once you’ve chosen a size, then you must select a speed that matches that of your tractor’s engine.
- PTO engines generally run at either 540 RPM or 1,000 RPM.
- If you have a modern tractor, it will likely be compatible with either one of these speed; however, if you own an older tractor that can only handle one of these two speeds, you must make sure to get the corresponding PTO unit.
Electrical Phase
- Lastly, you will need to select your electrical phase.
- Like most generators, PTO units produce either single or three-phase electricity.
- If you need power at a higher voltage than your wall socket provides, you will want a three-phase generator; otherwise, a single-phase generator will be sufficient to meet your needs.