Choosing the right generator isn’t just about buying the biggest model—it’s about selecting the right size for your actual load needs. Cat5 Power Solutions provides Bobcat® portable generators in a range of sizes, including 20 kW (PG25), 32 kW (PG40), 38 kW (PG50), and 56 kW (PG70). To make the best choice, it’s essential to understand the difference between kVA (kilovolt-amperes) and kW (kilowatts).
kVA vs. kW — What’s the Difference?
- kW (kilowatts): The actual usable power output that your equipment consumes.
- kVA (kilovolt-amperes): The apparent power, which includes inefficiencies and accounts for the power factor. A generator’s kVA rating will always be equal to or higher than its kW rating.
For example, a Bobcat PG25 generator is rated at 25 kVA / 20 kW, while the PG70 is rated at 70 kVA / 56 kW. The difference reflects efficiency and the need to account for extra demand during use.
Why Does This Matter?
If you size your generator too small, it can:
- Trip breakers or fail to start critical equipment.
- Run at full load constantly, leading to overheating and early wear.
- Cause inefficient operation and higher fuel costs.
If you oversize, you may spend more than necessary on equipment and fuel. The key is balance.
Common Factors to Consider
- Starting Loads: Motors and compressors often require two to three times more power on startup than during regular operation.
- Power Factor Losses: Industrial equipment often has a power factor of less than 1.0, meaning not all kVA translates into usable kW.
- Environmental Conditions: Heat, humidity, and elevation all affect generator efficiency.
Practical Applications of Bobcat Generators
- PG25 (20 kW): Small job sites, light commercial use, or backup for essential building loads.
- PG40 (32 kW) and PG50 (38 kW): Mid-sized projects, including construction trailers, smaller telecom operations, and industrial tools.
- PG70 (56 kW): Large construction sites, industrial backup, or critical infrastructure where reliability is essential.
Choosing the Right Size with Cat5 Power Solutions
When selecting a generator, create a load list of everything you need to power. Identify the starting wattage for high-demand equipment, and add a margin for future expansion. Cat5 Power Solutions’ team can help evaluate your needs and match the right Bobcat generator for your project, whether it’s permanent backup power or temporary deployment.
Understanding the relationship between kVA and kW helps prevent costly mistakes. By sizing correctly, you ensure safe, reliable, and efficient performance from your generator. With Bobcat portable generators available through Cat5 Power Solutions, you can choose a unit that perfectly matches your project’s demands.
