Tips for Installing Diesel Generators
Tips for installing Diesel Generators:
Standby generators are an indispensable requirement to overcome power outages and avoid the resultant disruption of work. To those who may not be familiar, a diesel generator set consists of a diesel engine, a generator and other connecting accessories like base, sound attenuation, control systems, circuit breakers, canopy, jacket water heaters, starting system etc.
Diesel generating sets are used as standby emergency power supply whenever the power grid fails and also in areas like construction sites and far-off locations where electricity is not available.
Diesel generating sets come in different sizes and also as portable units. Portable diesel generators are obviously small and range from 1kVA to 10kVA. The larger industrial type diesel generators range form 8kVA to 2000kVA.
These large diesel generators are used for residences, offices, hospitals, commercial establishments etc. When it comes to large sizes models, the engine and generator are brought to the site separately and assembled at the site. For reliable and efficient performance, it is advisable to install the diesel generator observing the prescribed safety measures and using quality fittings.
There are some rules for installation for a diesel generator and these may vary from one set to another. In fact, with every diesel generator set you will find special installation instructions.
You have to consider maintaining spaces, ventilation methods, exhaust piping, humidity, temperature, access abilities etc. when choosing a location for installation.
Diesel generators should always be installed, serviced and repaired only by authorized service dealers, or by experienced and certified technicians who have a thorough knowledge to comply with standard operating procedures, applicable codes and regulations.
Nonetheless, it is good for you to be aware of the following tips about diesel generator installation.
>> Upon unpacking the generator from shipping cartons, conduct a thorough inspection to ascertain if any damage has occurred during shipment.
>> Satisfy that the rated amperage / wattage capacity of the generator is adequate to handle all the required loads during a power outage. It is preferable that the critical loads are grouped together and wired separately into an exclusive distribution panel.
>> The generator should be placed outdoors in a protective enclosure, where ample air for cooling and ventilation is available. The generator should be placed on a level surface, a little above ground level to prevent contact from rising water levels.
>> The generator should be installed as close as possible to the transfer switch and the fuel supply, to minimize the length of cabling / piping. The fuel pipe sizing, construction and layout must comply with NFPA 54 for natural gas applications and NFPA 58 for liquid propane applications.
>> A grounding lug is generally provided for grounding the frame and external conducting parts of the equipment. It is essential that procedures that meet local regulations regarding grounding requirements are followed.
>> Make sure that all batteries are completely charged before they are inserted into the generator.
>> Adequate care must be taken while unpacking and installing the transfer switch. The switch has to be wall-mounted and all the points must be in level with each other to prevent possible distortions.
>> The unit should be connected to the electrical system supplied by the utility only by means of the automatic transfer switch. If there is no transfer switch available, the safest option is to plug the essential appliances directly into the generator.
- See more at: ##sthash.JGwItPEi.dpuf
