APU - Inverter ??

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by HD_Renegade, Nov 10, 2017.

  1. HD_Renegade

    HD_Renegade Road Train Member

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    A little confused here. I had thought if you have an APU, why would you still need to have an inverter ??
     
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  3. gentleroger

    gentleroger Road Train Member

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    Because an apu is putting out dc power. An apu generates electricity. An inverter converts it from dc to ac.
     
  4. STexan

    STexan Road Train Member

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    Some APU's actually have an AC output (generator) from them. Our fleet does. However some companies [like ours] don't want to provide the AC outlet in the sleeper because then they find drivers want to run the APU 24/7 when parked, which puts unnecessary wear and tear and fuel burn on them. So, they run a sizable inverter that also works to power most things, but without the need to run the APU.
     
    Last edited: Nov 10, 2017
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  5. JC1971

    JC1971 Road Train Member

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    Someone told me they had an inverter that was capacitors or batteries only. Anybody have one of these?
     
  6. STexan

    STexan Road Train Member

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    There's is an "all battery" system but they suck for extended periods beyond about 12 hours requiring heating or cooling
     
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  7. jedijon217

    jedijon217 Bobtail Member

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    I had a truck with the battery driven APU. it has perks but I think its really best for a team on those short stops. mine did fine for about 9 hours at a time then the truck would have to start to charge the system.
     
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  8. mhyn

    mhyn Road Train Member

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    Carrier ComfortPro APU has 6kw AC generator belted to the engine..
     
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