TNL ENGINEERING: GENERATOR SET INSTALLATION AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS TO CUSTOMERS

The following brief instructions intend to assist and advise upon a generator set installation in order to ensure the best possible results for the user-owner

TNL Enigneering engineer will work closely with customer for site survey, engineering design and arranging for site installation, testing, commissioning the genset package following basic step as below:

Proper ventilation of the installation site/room 

For correct engine combustion and heat dissipation of the motor, plenty amount of air is required. All the specific information for the needed volume of fresh air of each genset model is included in its technical brochure.

Rising temperatures within the installation and operating site of a genset must not exceed 8° - 12°C above the ambient temperature.

Exhaust system

Exhaust piping and silencer should be installed in a way that will allow sufficient space for service access to the maintenance technicians. Proper piping support is crucial to prevent vibration transmission to the generator set.

The entire exhaust system must be properly insulated to avoid heat dissipation/transfer to the installation room.

Finally, for the correct generator set operation, the back pressure of the entire exhaust system should be taken into account and must not exceed the recommended manufacturer limits.

Mounting of a generator set

For the proper generator set operation it is crucial to build a completely leveled base/foundation, thus offering adequate seating for the unit. The base/foundation should be of sufficient strength based on the weight of each specific generator set. A proper seating does not affect the critical engine-alternator alignment. A generator set installation on an unleveled surface can cause damages such as distortions of the engine block and torsional stress to the welding and engine foundation iron.

Ιn high-power generating sets (over 1000kVA), special anti-vibration equipment (rubber/spring), which is placed between the generator set and its installation surface (base/foundation) for further vibration isolation. A general rule is to place one pair of anti-vibration rubber/spring near the center of gravity of the generator set and the remaining pieces in equal distances in order to equally distribute the weight of the generator set.

In addition, adequate space around the generator set is necessary for its proper operation as well as for easy access of the service technicians during maintenance intervals (a distance of about 1 meter perimeter is quite satisfactory).

Connecting a generator set 

For correct connection of power generators, special attention should be given to the following*:

1. Connect the generator set with the automatic transfer panel using a 2x1 shielded cable in order to avoid induced currents.

2. Connect a 220V power supply to the generator set’s control and operation panel for battery/ies maintenance (battery charger) as well as for engine preheat system (if included)

Battery system

For the direct/auto-start of the generator set, its battery system should be always under load. For this purpose,
the battery charger must always be connected to the power supply (220V).

Engine fuel