Xantrex’s Freedom X is a sine wane inverter line designed to bring more surge power and precise electrical power in a more durable package.
Inverters, which convert DC power into AC power to power creature comforts in the truck cab, have always been a magnet for controversy. An expert at one inverter company offers his tips for what to think about when spec'ing an inverter.
Kenworth says it has begun producing trucks with an available engine advanced starting and battery charging system.
Eaton’s Pure Sine Wave Inverter is a new DC to AC inverter for tapping into Class 8 DC vehicle batteries.
In Joe Egan’s office, a framed picture shows a long-haul tractor, or more precisely, its charred remains. “It’s not one of our trucks, but it illustrates what can happen when an electrical fire is caused by a bad inverter installation,” he says. “It gives a visual reminder to any driver who comes into my office what can happen if an inverter isn’t installed correctly.”
Originally launched 16 years ago in 12V configuration and then re-engineered in early 2010 with pure sine wave technology, the Xantrex Freedom SW series of inverters/chargers recently launched new 24V models.
Power inverters – the devices that convert standard battery (DC) power to AC household power – are becoming more commonplace in the trucking industry. Depending upon whom you ask, that’s to the delight, or chagrin of fleet and maintenance managers, who often have a love/hate relationship with inverters.
So you want to install an inverter, but with all the features and complexity of today’s more sophisticated units, you’re hesitant to take the plunge? Or, perhaps you’ve had some problems with your inverter, and you’re not sure if it’s a faulty unit … or a simple installation problem?