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I know that Internal Combustion engines are rated in terms of peak power developed, while electric motors are generally specified in terms of continuous power output. Is there a good way to determine the equivalent power output between the two?

Suppose I needed to determine the minimum engine size for a 3 kVA generator set?

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    $\begingroup$ If you have electricity to run a motor to turn a generator, you can likely convert that electricity more efficiently. You'd need more than 3kVA to get 3kVA out. $\endgroup$
    – Abel
    Commented Jan 25 at 1:57
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    $\begingroup$ Are you under the impression that I'm trying to build some sort of infinite energy machine? $\endgroup$
    – Slartibartfast
    Commented Jan 25 at 5:12
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    $\begingroup$ Some Internal combustion motors are rated for continuous duty, buy one rated for 4 hp , a Honda would do. $\endgroup$
    – Tiger Guy
    Commented Jan 25 at 5:25
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    $\begingroup$ I'm trying to extend the knowledge to general applications. Is there a rule of thumb to know what an typical internal combustion engine is capable of under a constant load? $\endgroup$
    – Slartibartfast
    Commented Jan 25 at 5:44
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    $\begingroup$ Yes rule of thumb is to test it under conditions you need (if you can afford, or the return policy is good enough, this can work out), and if you cannot test it yourself, buy one that is rated for the conditions. $\endgroup$
    – Abel
    Commented Jan 25 at 11:46

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