Original air date April 22, 2021

Critical power: Generators and generator power system design

1 AIA CES APPROVED LU AVAILABLE FOR ATTENDEES UPON SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF AN EXAM

When designing generator power systems, consulting engineers must ensure that the generators and the building electrical systems that they support are appropriate for the specific application. Whether providing standby power for health care facilities or prime power for processing plants, engineers must make decisions regarding generator sizing, load types, whether generators should be paralleled, fuel storage, switching scenarios and many other criteria. In addition to being up to speed on the applicable codes, consulting engineers must work with the authorities having jurisdiction to ensure approval for the generator system is attained.


Learning objectives:

  • Understand the fundamental generator system classifications outlined in NFPA 70: National Electrical Code and NFPA 110: Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems.
  • Learn the criteria for selecting the appropriate generator or generators for the building type and/or application. Know about the basic criteria for testing commissioning generators and the electrical systems they support.
  • Get an overview of basic application considerations including location inside or outside the building and fuel sources. Learn about the criteria for designing the generator system and know the differences between prime rated versus standby rated engines (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards).
  • Understand areas for coordination with other members of the design team including structural, mechanical, fire protection and architectural systems.

Presented By:
Brian A. Rener, PE, LEED AP, principal engineer, mission critical leader, SmithGroup, Chicago
Daniel Flaherty, PE, CxA, mechanical engineer, CDM Smith, Boston

Moderated By:
Amara Rozgus, Content Manager, CFE Media and Technology

#CSEGeneratorDesign

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