If we have a 480V generator, what can we expect?

• A. That we will be running a low amperage set
• B. That we will be running a high amperage set
• C. That we will be running no load
• D. That we will be running an erratic set

Answer: (B)

A 480V generator is wired to supply heavy, high-power equipment. The key idea is that the voltage level is chosen to drive large loads, like motors and pumps, which draw substantial current when they’re operating. When such a generator is loaded, the amperage drawn can be quite high, especially during startup when motors have a large inrush. If there’s no load, the current would be very low, but that isn’t typical operation for a generator expected to power industrial equipment. So the best expectation is that you’ll be dealing with high amperage whenever the generator is delivering rated power to its loads.