Voltage and frequency considerations for AC powered Rainman watermaker
Rainman AC systems come in either 230VAC / 50Hz or 115VAC / 60Hz. This covers the vast majority of AC power set ups around the world (the Philippines is an exception). These systems are almost identical, except for two factors.
- The AC induction motors are manufactured for either 230VAC or 115VAC.
- The shafts on the high pressure pumps have different throw lengths, optimising the system for either 50Hz or 60Hz operation.
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, but will not harm the system.
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 or a 115VAC/50Hz system, we can build it as a custom configuration. It will take two extra days to fit into our production schedule. Although this is a special order, pricing is not affected.
We can create this custom build for the naked 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.