FAQ

33 POPULAR QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ON UNIPOWER

  1.       Q.        I understand that UNIPOWER has a "Quasi Sinewave power supply.Could
                        you explain what this is?

A.        Yes, UNIPOWER employs the Quasi waveform because it is simpler and less expensive but covers all bar some ‘niche’ specialized equipment.  Only certain compressors and audio equipment require pure sinewave.  If the client requires Sinewave output, then we can offer the PowerTek range

  2.       Q.        What appliances can be run with my UNIPOWER?

A.        Most A.C. appliances run quite happily off the Unipower ACQ.  If you have doubts, then check back with the factory, or offer the PowerTek
                       

NB:

Items such as T.V. 's, induction motors, video equipment, fluorescent lighting, compressors, steam cleaners, pumps, A.C. welders, fans, fridges, freezers, plastic Pipe welders, microwave ovens, computers, and digital equipment are best run off pure Sinewave.

  3.       Q.        What amperage does the Unipower put out on the plug circuit?

            A.        Approximately 10 AMPS .

  4.       Q.        Can we run several functions at once?

            A.        Yes.  Whilst welding you can use a light.  You can drill and grind at the same time - as long as power requirement does not exceed 2,500 watts(2.5 Kw).  However, if you are using lights when you weld, it will reduce the welding amperage in a direct ratio to the light wattage.  The UNIPOWER will give preference to welding when lights are operated simultaneously and will reduce voltage.As soon as you stop welding the full 220 / 110 volt current will resume

  5.       Q.        Does the UNIPOWER act as an ordinary alternator when switched to "car"                                position?

            A.        Yes.  The only difference, is that being a heavy duty alternator, it is capable of supplying up to 140 AMPS for your vehicle's electrical needs.  All current to your battery is fully, electronically, regulated and reduces amperage as the battery voltage increases.

6.         Q.        What happens if I leave my unit in the "work" mode when traveling?  Will it                               damage the unit?

            A.        No!  What will happen is the warning light on the dashboard will stay on (if one is installed) .  This will let you know something is wrong.  If left in this position, your battery will eventually go flat -as it is not being charged.

7.         Q.        Does steam cleaning the engine damage the unit?

            A.        It can, if the unit is not properly protected from infusion of water it can cause the printed circuit board to short out.  Always protect the module with a ; UNIPOWER cover when steam cleaning and always aim the water / steam away from the unit.

8.         Q.        Why is the old alternator regulator not used with UNIPOWER?

            A.        The Unipower P.C.B. (in the main control box) has its own built-in electronic ; regulator, therefore the standard regulator is redundant.

  9.       Q.        When using the "boost charging" system on a flat battery, will it damage the battery cells?

            A.        No, provided you only "boost charge" for a short period, say upto 10 minutes. The UNIPOWER is regulated on boost charging to 16 V for 12 V systems and 28 V for 24 V systems.  (These voltages were recommended by leading international battery manufacturers for optimising charging effectiveness) .

10.       Q.        Does the UNIPOWER alternator fit any make of vehicle?

            A.        Yes, some with modifications.  Some Japanese diesel vehicles have a vacuum pump attached to the rear of their alternator so obviously our alternator can not be used to replace it.  However, it can be installed in a ''piggy-back'' or similar arrangement as an additional alternator.  The two alternators can be run together boost the welding output, (ask for details) .

11.       Q.        If I use an A.C / D.C. inverter can I then run A.C. tools and equipment off it?

            A.        Yes, off your battery.  However, you may find that you get a reduction in before proceeding.  The UNIPOWER can quickly replace lost amperage to your battery, don't forget!

12.       Q.        Is the UNIPOWER a square-wave system?

            A.        No.  The UNIPOWER generates Quasi. power (refer to Q1 on page 15) .

13.       Q.        What are the safety systems on the UNIPOWER?

            A.        Your UNIPOWER has a reliable comprehensive internal circuit breaker.  Which resets automatically after a short cooling-off period.  There are several electronic safety devices that protect your Unipower from being abused.

14.       Q.        Can you jump-start other 12 volt vehicles with my 24 volt model system
                        (optional unit)?

            A.        Yes!  Just follow the same procedure as with the 12 volt model but make sure the mode switch is in the "12 volt BOOST" position.  The voltage; will automatically adjust.

15.       Q.        What voltage does the welding circuit generate?

            A.        About 52 volts RMS but with higher peak voltag. This characteristic allows nearly all types of electrodes to be used including iron powder and low hydrogen type.

16.       Q.        Can a remote-control throttle be fitted to enable engine revs to be controlled
                        from a long distance?

              A.        Yes, but you may find it quite difficult to fit.  We also offer electronic throttles for various vehicles – check with the factor, if in doubt.

17.       Q.        Can the loom distance between the alternator and control box be extended                         over and above the standard length without affecting the performance?

            A.        Yes, a distance of up to 10 meter is possible without greatly affecting performance. Additional extension requirements should be referred back to the distributor or manufacturer.

18.       Q.        Can I use a normal A.C. switch with my extension lead?

            A.        Yes. Refer to question 1 .

19.       Q.        What amperage does the UNIPOWER pull in the welding mode?

20.       Q.        Is it essential to have a toothed "V" belt?

            A.        No.  This type of belt, along with the polyrib (multi-groove) belts, is more efficient (less slip) so is better suited for UNIPOWER which absorbs about 10 HP when under full load.  The only drawback is this type of belt tends to                            cause vibration.  The type we recommended is a raw edge belt as produced by Dayco.  Most cheap belts have a canvass-like covering on the edge.  These are definitely not suitable and will slip and wear out rapidly.

21.       Q.        Will the alternator overheat if power mode is used over several hours?

            A.        No.  The alternator is specially designed for optimum heat diffusion.Materials and design criteria are specifically tailored for this purpose, the wire being suitable for temperatures up to 220 ° C .

22.       Q.        Can UNIPOWER be swapped from one vehicle to another?

            A.        Yes.  You need to remove both alternator and control module unless you have purchased a Hi-Volt Regulator / M-loom (ask for details) .  It also requires a competent electrician / mechanic to ensure correct fitting.

23.       Q.        Can anybody install a UNIPOWER?

            A.        Yes, if the fundamental procedures are followed.  Problems occur as a result of people not bothering to read the basic installation instructions (an age-old problem!) .

24.       Q.        Can you use reverse-polarity rods with UNIPOWER?

            A.        Yes, by swapping positive and negative leads over.  This cannot be done if welding on your own vehicle.

25.       Q.        Is there a limit on extension leads for: -        a.)  Welding circuit?
                                                                                                b.)  Plug circuit?

            A.        Yes, there is a practical limit in both cases . a)Heavier cables are suggested for any distance of over 10 meters to reduce the power loss.

                        b.)        As for any standard 240 volt system.  The lighter the load is, the ; long distance can be carried.

26.       Q.        Is there any disadvantage in having the control module located away from the engine?

            A.        Locating the module inside the cab can  result in damage (kicks and knocks) but has the advantage of eliminating the steam cleaning danger.  Take your choice.

27.       Q.        Can the Uni-power be made into a "skid" (stationary) unit?

            A.        Yes, quite easily.  An engine with a minimum power of 10 HP is required but the fitting is very simple.  It has been done many times.  It does require the use of a battery, however  UNIPOWER does manufacture a very efficient unit with its own engine .  (See our brochures for details - The Unipower "Bettaweld " and ''Weldmaster'' range) .

28.       Q.        Can I weld on my own vehicle?

            A.        Definitely, yes. This is one of the features of UNIPOWER.  It will not damage the alternator or battery as you would with A.C. type welders.

29.       Q.        Will my UNIPOWER produce 240 volt power whilst traveling?

            A.        Yes, but only if you leave it in the power mode.  In this mode the vehicle battery will not be charged so it will be necessary to have another alternator for this purpose.  Ask for a double-up installation.

30.       Q.        Can I use the UNIPOWER in my boat?

            A.        Yes, provided it can be driven at the right speed.  The same criteria apply with a boat as a car except, the alternator is normally "isolated" from the hull and prop shaft to avoid electrolysis occurring.  Check with your distributor for details.  (The PowerTek tends to be more popular for most marine applications, however).

31.       Q.        Is UNIPOWER suitable for Caravan use?

            A.        Yes, with some reservations.  Avoid using fluorescent lights, T.V.'s, inductive; motors / electronic appliances.  It is ideal for fry-pans, toasters, kettles, stoves ; or hot water storage systems. This is also usually a PowerTek application.

32.       Q.        Why does the UNIPOWER welding current feel much greater than its stated amperage?

            A.        The UNIPOWER is a high frequency welder, thereby requiring less amperage for equivalent penetration of conventional welders.  The high frequency current also permits longer welding cables without concomitant loss of performance.

33.       Q.        If I have a double-up system and wish to obtain extra amperage to my battery for longer winching periods, can I use my UNIPOWER to couple-in with the original alternator output?

            A.        Yes!  Just switch on your UNIPOWER and, when it is set higher than theoriginal alternator, it will take over the role of primary charger.  When the voltage drops to the second alternator setting, it will come in to assist the                                    primary alternator. (You have the potential to develop over 200 amps in this manner) .

Note: -  Some people think they have to plug in a welding machine in order to weld with UNIPOWER.  This is definitely NOT the case.  The UNIPOWER Alternator produces the welding current itself, directly.  Your welding cables need only to be attached to the UNIPOWER welding terminals - no need to lug around heavy welding machines!