Drew said:
How big is a larger inverter ? cost ?
Sorta depends on the power needs of the mixer,I'd assume they'd use a
fair amount of power (1/2HP motor? I dunno,never used one.)
So you'd need an inverter capable of whatever the mixer needs,plus some
more,for "reserves".The motor will draw a 'peak' when it first starts
spinning,and you don't want the inverter to switch off before it even
starts up!
Cost will depened on size,and wether it's sine/modified sine
(square,actually) wave. I'd think the motor would run okay on a
modified-sine(square) wave inverter,but a pure sine wave inverter might
be more efficient,and heat up the motor less...
I'm not sure of the specifics here,but I do know that sine wave
inverters cost more.
Then you'll need enough battery power to run the load of the mixer,for
however long you'll be mixing cement.
And hopefully you'll have enough solar(hydro/wind,etc) power to help out
during the day,and recharge the batteries inbetween mixing,etc.
I'm not sure of the nitty-gritty details and figures,but I'm sure one of
the more experienced guys could help you with that stuff.
I'm still fairly new to the solar/alternative energy thing also.
Another of my wacky ideas..
Are you after "solar" (ie; just sun-powered) or 'Photovoltaic' (electric
solar panels) ?
Perhaps you could setup a reflector to heat water,and devise a
steam-powered mixer?.. (something like a "sunflower" reflector/heater?)
Wonder if anyone makes anything like that. Hmm..
Like I said,another of my wacky ideas.. ;-)
