Part 2 – Sizing Generator

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When is a generator necessary?

A generator becomes necessary when the electrical equipment requires power for a duration longer than what the UPS can provide.

Synchronization

When starting, a generator needs time to synchronize with the electrical current of the UPS. If the generator is operating near its maximum capacity, there is a risk of load dropping. To avoid this, a larger generator is the solution.

Quick Checklist

To determine if a generator is needed, consider the impact on your business if specific electrical equipment fails:

  • Assess the power protection requirements for different electrical systems.
  • Evaluate the power loading of the generator.
  • Upgrade the generator size to accommodate surge current, UPS efficiency, harmonics, synchronization, operating temperature, and future electrical demands.
  • As a general guideline, the generator size should exceed the UPS power rating by a factor of 1.25 to 3.00 or more.

Surge Current

When identifying all electrical systems, pay close attention to electrical inrush or surge current. This occurs when devices start up and their initial power consumption exceeds the normal operating load significantly.

The generator must have the capacity to handle both the UPS power requirements and an additional 20% to 30% to account for the power conditioning process.

Harmonics

As the number of electrical devices in a building or site increases, the electrical supply waveform becomes distorted, affecting its smoothness. This distortion generates additional harmonic frequencies that can pose problems for sensitive electrical equipment. The harmonics from non-linear loads can cause equipment heating and reduce cable capacity. To address this, power conditioning equipment can be used to filter out the harmonics and improve the quality of the electrical supply. This helps protect sensitive equipment and enhance overall performance.

Temperature

Temperature is a critical factor to consider. During operation, a generator typically raises the temperature in the engine room or plant by 10°C. If the ambient temperature is already high, such as 20°C, the resulting 30°C can have adverse effects on the generator. It is important to monitor and control the temperature to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the generator.

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