generator mismatch

[bananaspark]

can anyone say what will happen if I try to run a 1.2kw rated air compressor off a 950w petrol generator?
Will the startup surge draw from the motor just blow a fuse on the genny or will it manage and just run at lower power / voltage and slowly wreck one or other of the motor/dynamo involved.

thanks b.

 

[plugwash]

I would think that most likely the generator would stall.

 

[big-all]

i would think the other way round would be pushing it with the start up current with only a 25% margin [ 1.2 gen powering a 950 compressor]

 

[briwire]

if it is properly protected, it may just blow a fuse or trip a breaker. If not, the extra load will low down the engine so tah you may not have 50 Hz. It may even stall the engine completely, or overheat the alternator windings. either way it will do it no good.