Frequently Asked Questions

This is information most requested by people with an interest in AuraGen Power Systems. If your question is not answered here please let us know using the "Contact Us" page.

Is AuraGen safe?
AuraGen meets American Boat and Yacht Council, Underwriters Laboratory and United States Coast Guard requirements. AuraGen has no spark or hot components and is maintenance free.
How much power does the AuraGen produce?
The G5000 produces 5kW continuous and 7.2kW peak power.
The G8500 produces 8.5kW continuous and 9.2kW peak power.
What advantage is AuraGen over a portable generator or power inverter?
In marine use, deck positioned portable fuel powered generators have been selectively used but are not approved by the United States Coast Guard and are a known fire hazard. Inverters have been a suggested alternative and while they will supply limited power for some appliances, they put high demand on and require engine operation at regular intervals to recharge batteries. Inverters wil not power high surge appliances such as AC/heat or microwaves. Improperly installed inverters have also been a known fire hazard.
Will AuraGen fit my engine?
AuraGen is currently available as an engine mounted unit for over fifteen of the most common U.S. manufacturered engines that are 1990 or newer including Mercury, Volvo, Crusader, and also for select diesel engines.
How is AuraGen different from an alternator?
AuraGen is based on a patented solid rotor making it small, rugged and highly effecient. AuraGen typically runs at 75-85% effeciency at low speed where altenators at high speed may hit 70% effeciency but fall off to less than 10% at low engine speeds. So when you want power (low speed stationary users) AuraGen is able to meet your need.
How long does an AuraGen installation take?
Installation by a certified technician will depend on the engine type and configuration of the system.
Can anyone install AuraGen?
No, AuraGen can only be installed by a certified AuraGen installer.
How does AuraGen fit my engine?
The patented design of AuraGen allows it to be substantially smaller than a typical generator. AuraGen mounts to the front of the engine, via an engine specific bracket, with the belt pulley aligned with the engine crankshaft pulley. A seperate pulley and belt are installed so the AuraGen belt position is just in front of the existing serpentine belt. AuraGen can also be Power Take Off (PTO) mounted. This requires a special option that attaches to the transmission/drive shaft.
Does AuraGen generate AC, DC and AC/DC power combined?
Yes, you can order AuraGen with AC power only, DC power only or a combination of AC and DC power. Typical marine applications will require AC power only but in situations where a vessel has no previously installed amenities, AC/DC power would be an option.
Is AuraGen a "greener" alternative than a conventional generator?
Yes, AuraGen installed within a vessel produces far less emissions than a typical gasoline powered generator. A vessel equipped with AuraGen produces less than 5% of the carbon monoxide emissions generated by a pre-1999 generator and less thean 80% of the carbon monoxide emissions generated by a post-1999 generator.
What additional maintenance is required for engines equipped with AuraGen?
None, AuraGen is maintenance-free and requires no additional maintenance beyond that recommended within the service manual. With proper normal engine maintenance, AuraGen does not affect the longevity of the engine. Aura Systems recommends the user follow engine manufacturers service intervals.
Can AuraGen handle high surge power situations?
AuraGen has the outstanding capability to handle high surge situations due to the high-torque of the engine driving the generator and AuraGen "smart" electronics. The AuraGen G5000 can easily handle surges up to 7200 watts for two seconds and the G8500 can handle surges up to 9200 watts for 2 seconds.
Does AuraGen contain a circuit breaker?
The AuraGen Electronic Control Unit (ECU) is equipped with an internal, re-settable circuit breaker to protect against power surges and shorts as well a variety of additional safety features.
What type of receptacle should be used with AuraGen?
Aura Systems recommends using receptacles that are UL listed and Ground Fault Interrupt (GFI) protected as they would be in any outdoor installation.The ECU also has internal electronic GFI and over-current protection.
How much horsepower (HP) is required to run AuraGen at full load?
AuraGen is a highly effefient power supply. Approximately 8.4 HP is required from the engine when the generator is producing 5kW of AC power.
Does AuraGen effect the operation of the vessel?
No.
Can you pull the full 5000 watt power from a single outlet or circuit?
Yes. You can pull 40 amps at 120 volts.
How are the AuraGen and ECU controlled and mounted?
In a typical marine application the on/off control for the system would be assigned to the vessle's Main Distribution Panel (MDP) and the RPM controlled with the throttle at the helm. The ECU will usually be mounted in the engine compartment when the maximum temprature will not exeed +120 degrees or where space is convenient.

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