Voltage and frequency considerations for AC powered Rainman watermaker
Most AC power supplies around the world are either 230VAC/50Hz or 115VAC/60Hz. Some exceptions exist, such as parts of Philippines that operate at 230VAC/60Hz.
Rainman AC watermakers at the 140 litres per hour or below are configured to one of those two power sources. The two configurations are almost identical, with exception of two factors.
- The AC induction motors are manufactured for either 230VAC or 115VAC, with centrifugal switch for the start capacitor that is tuned to 50Hz or 60Hz.
- The shafts on the high pressure pumps have different throw lengths, optimising the system for either 50Hz or 60Hz operation.
Note that this not apply to the 240 litre per hour Torrent system. These motors are able to be wired to either voltage/frequency.
The motor will spin 20% faster. This means the pump is moving 20% more water, the AC motor is doing 20% more physical work, and is drawing a higher current. Increased current means it is operating at higher power and will eventually overheat the motor windings, causing to permanent motor failure.
The motor will spin 17% slower. This means the pump is moving 17% less water, the AC motor is doing 17% less physical work, and is drawing a lower current. This lower flow rate will slightly decrease the product water output and slightly increase the TDS of the product water. However, since the centrifugal switch in the motor may fail to open, the start capacitor remains in the circuit, causing motor inefficiency, capacitor failure, and winding overheating.
Custom Rainman Build
We keep our watermakers as stock items ready for immediate shipment. However, if you have a need for either a 230VAC/60Hz system, we can build it as a custom configuration. It will take two extra days to fit into our production schedule. A token charge will be made for the custom build. It is not possible to build a 115VAC/50Hz system due to the centrifugal switch issue described above.
We can create this custom build for the modular configuration. The portable watermakers in the blue shell are designed to be moved between boats easily and not appropriate for custom configurations.
Conclusion
You should ensure you know what power (voltage and frequency) you have available when ordering a Rainman AC watermaker.