Challenge- The EMP-Proof Standby Generator

**Gregness** · 11-11-2011, 03:24 PM

First, I am new, so easy on the newbie-style flame throwers!

The challenge is this: I want to buy a propane powered 10-12KW generator and set it up to run my home off its 500 gallon tank, in the event that we lose power for whatever reason- including the efffects of a nuclear or solar EMP event. In order to be EMP resistant, I understand that it must be housed in a Faraday-Cage type enclosure, and not be connected to the grid when such an event occurs. Presently there a number of 10-12kw generators on the market that are propane powered, and come in a metal enclosure that can be easily modified to Faraday Cage specifications. However, ALL of these products are designed and equipped with "smart switch" or "auto-start" features, which require them to be plugged into the home's electical systmen constantly, so that they "know" when to start and stop automatically, run their battery chargers, and do monthly maintanence start-run-stop drills.

I have been told that wiring these machines with disconnectable cables and engaging them manually, rather than hard-wiring them and relying on the auto-feautres will void the warranty.

So my question is, are there any electrician types in the audience that can comment on the ease/complexity of circumventing the auto systems and wiring such a rig for manual operation? I am less concerend about voiding the warranty than with finding myself with a uesless generator the day after the EMP hits.

G

**hminus** · 11-12-2011, 08:32 PM

I have been working the same problem over in my head for many months now. My issue is - the faraday needs to be in operation 24-7 (even while the thing is running).. I believe the EMP we will have to deal with will be solar. If it is solar than it will likely be more than one emp at a time... once you fire up the genny and and run your power lines, they become antenna for the next strike... I have been thinking of going as old school as possible with a generator. If it runs like a 68 ford, then it should be ok. As long as there are no circuits in the thing... What do you think?

**Gregness** · 11-13-2011, 01:02 PM

Agree, solar emp is inevitable long run, but nuclear emp is still a real possibility. I read that an Iranian newspaper recently ran an article bragging about how America is terrified of their coming capability to deliver an EMP strike and destroy our society. And the present administration does not seem to care.

Anyhow, I understand your concern. My plan would be that in the event of a solar event, just ride it out without power as long as I can, and engage the gen once the solar wind has died down. I do not see how a gen set can be protected when it is connected to the home, running or not, if a strong EMP strikes.

G

**prkchp76** · 11-13-2011, 03:24 PM

just wrap the whole house and genny in aluminum foil and duct tape youll blend right in

**hminus** · 11-13-2011, 07:35 PM

Originally Posted by Gregness

Agree, solar emp is inevitable long run, but nuclear emp is still a real possibility. I read that an Iranian newspaper recently ran an article bragging about how America is terrified of their coming capability to deliver an EMP strike and destroy our society. And the present administration does not seem to care.

Anyhow, I understand your concern. My plan would be that in the event of a solar event, just ride it out without power as long as I can, and engage the gen once the solar wind has died down. I do not see how a gen set can be protected when it is connected to the home, running or not, if a strong EMP strikes.

G

You are right, it can't... But if you can buy an old genny that does not have any of the new micro-circuitry or even de-engineer an existing one, you wouldn't need to protect it from EMP or CME Events. There is even a guy in SC who has been able to make a wood burning genny... Now that's the ticket... From reading all the stuff I have on EMP, vehicles made 1980 and earlier should be good to go... Now I have a 1980 Jeep J-20 and 1962 VW Baja..

**m38** · 11-14-2011, 10:38 AM

There are many propane generators that do not have the auto start, systems checking circuits. Just take a look at Northern Tools online and do a search. If you put your generator in a small shipping container, like a conex container, then it'll be protected from any emp, solar or nuclear. When you wire your connections through the wall of the container, have each connection go through a fast-acting fuse. You can get those online at McMaster-Carr, http://www.mcmaster.com/#.

**Beanie** · 12-27-2011, 08:54 PM

I just posted some Faraday Cage information on another Thread that may pertain here. Sorry, but all of the research I have done on EMP's and CME's indicate that it happens so quickly (like 1000th of a second) that even surge protectors arn't fast enough to protect anything! And if the generator is hooked up to the house it sounds like it would get fried too before it even had a chance to kick on.
I am far from an expert and am still researching all of this too! Hope you keep posting on this subject as I just now found this thread.
A note on the cars, even though they should run, it was indicated that we should have spare electrical parts in a Faraday Cage just in case. (I have a '71 VW Bug for just this type of emergency)

**cwebber** · 01-05-2012, 06:14 AM

To be honest I had no idea that there are also propane powered generators out there. I for myself do not have one because they are so expensive. So whenever I need one I actually always choose generator rentals because it is simple, cheap and whenever I need one I get one. I think this is the best opportunity if you do not want to buy one.

**CountryGuy** · 01-05-2012, 08:16 PM

CW, are you really saying you think there will be generators available for rent if things go to poop?

OK, I know of faraday cages and EMP but where can I get info on what will and won't be impacted (will small batteries, electric motors, alternators, etc... or just electronics with micro circuitry) and what I need to do to make one. I read somewhere that you can use ammo cans for smaller electronic items like radios but I'd like to find some good solid info. Also would my water well pump be safe down hole or would it blow it because it's hooked to the house electrical?

**mountain1** · 01-06-2012, 02:38 AM

challenge...
learn to live without power... running water... etc...
it seems to me that folks want to be 'comfortable' at all cost... sorry folks, that aint going to work...
most americans are spoiled sissy little wimps. they cant shit in an outhouse at 30 below, they cant live without electricity or running water.
'survival' is not about watching 'the brady bunch' its about living your life while others perish...
a couple of solar panels and a few batts... your all set... you might would also like to learn how to make fire... without a lighter... how to butcher meat... how to kill for food... etc..., why in the hell are you worried about power?
sorry, i just dont get it... what? you might miss an episode of american idol? trust me, we havent had a tv in 7 years... you will be o.k....
running water; yep, its called running to the damn crick or collecting rain water.
personal resposibility...!