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Tech Guide

Generator Selection: How Many kVA Do I Need?

Generator Selection: How Many kVA Do I Need? - Product Guide

A power cut stops production. The first question when choosing a generator is always: "How many kVA do I need?" Undersizing stalls the load; oversizing wastes fuel and capital.

kW vs kVA

  • kW = kVA × 0.8 (typical power factor)
  • Example: a 10 kVA generator supports roughly 8 kW of load.

Starting Current: The Overlooked Factor

Electric motors draw 3–7× their rated current at startup. A 2 kW compressor may demand 6–10 kW on start. Size for continuous load + largest motor's starting load + 20–25% margin.

Petrol or Diesel?

  • Petrol: Cheaper, lighter, quieter — ideal for intermittent, low-power use (2–8 kVA).
  • Diesel: Better fuel economy, longer life, suited to continuous duty — the right choice for sites and businesses.

Single or Three Phase?

Only 220 V tools → single phase. Any 380 V machinery → three phase. Note: drawing single-phase from a three-phase generator gives access to only one third of its power.

Browse our generators.

From Tuzla Civata: Since 2007 we have supplied the defense industry, shipyards, construction and manufacturing under engineer-led management. If you are unsure about product selection, get in touch — we will determine the right material together.

Tuzla Civata
Expert Engineering Team

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