Generating Power On Site
Last summer's power outage in the northeastern United States and Canada has made on-site generators—a topic that often suffers from neglect—hot again. This month's Product Spotlight offers a selection of recent innovations and new offerings in gensets. The theme here is versatility: Most new models featured below are dual-fuel, and some combine power generation and transfer equipment into a single package.
By Staff -- Consulting-Specifying Engineer, 11/1/2003
Natural-gas-fueled genset is a 1,200-rpm 60-Hz package that delivers 1.6 MW from an electronically controlled, 20-cylinder advanced lean-burn gas engine, coupled with a six-pole synchronous generator. Mechanical efficiency is rated at 43.5%, with fuel consumption at 6,069 BTU/bhp-hr, and NOx emissions at 1.0 g/bhp-hr. (by Caterpillar)
Lean-burn gensets are 1,600/1,400-kW natural-gas-fired models that boast high fuel efficiency and low exhaust emissions. Each unit features a 16-cylinder engine operating at either 1,500 rpm or 1,800 rpm and is designed for extended maintenance intervals. (1400 and 1600 GQKA by Cummins Power Generation)
Bi-fuel engine generators are rated at 300 kW and 375 kW output. These standby models are capable of operating on 90% natural gas and 10% diesel fuel. Both models are to be offered as elements in a modular power system or as twin sets in a single 600-kW or 750-kW package. (by Generac)
Genset provides a 1,500-kW generator in a 20-ft. ISO container. Four-cycle turbocharged diesel engine features liquid drain ports and filters that are quickly accessible for easy maintenance. Fully insulated container uses a reactive temperature control with dual fans, as well as a vertically mounted radiator that is shock- and vibration-isolated. (by MQ Power)
Power center combines service equipment and generator-transfer equipment in the same unit, allowing for easier generator installation in multi-panel applications. Units are installed next to exterior utility meters and can be paired with generators ranging from 5 kW to 30 kW and are available in 12- or 16-circuit configurations. (by Gen/Tran Corp.)
Turbine Generators are designed for steam and gas turbine applications. Specifications include the following: a power rating of 3.5 to 8.5 MW; voltage of up to 15 kV; a weight of 36,000 lbs. (8.5 MW unit); and frequency of 60 Hz or 50 Hz (at 5/6 voltage and kVA), three phase. (by Kato Engineering)
Motor/Generator uses a patented technology to provide the ride-through of a traditional backup system but without batteries. On utility power, the motor drives the generator mechanically. The electrically isolated generator delivers continuous, clean power. During ride-through, inertial energy drives the generator, which delivers constant frequency and regulated voltage, typically 12 seconds at full load. (by Precise Power)
