Consulting-Specifying Engineer - February 2009 - (Page 33)

Equipment Lifecycles Installing a genset Generator set installation involves lots of details, but don’t overlook the broad concepts. BY TODD RIEMANN AND STEVE RESNER, MTU Onsite Energy, Mankato, Minn. he installation manual provided with a genset usually covers many aspects of an installation. A typical manual includes many pages of instructions, diagrams, checklists, and advisories (e.g., don’t use galvanized components or Teflon tape on fuel systems for diesel-powered units). Be aware, however, that some important design issues may not be addressed in the manual. For example: 1. Enclosure doors that became misaligned during shipping or installation must be adjusted to regain the proper fit and smooth operation they had when the unit left the factory. 2. There is a structural formula for determining the thickness of the inertia pad/mounting base. 3. There is a mechanical formula to ensure adequate airflow through the genset enclosure based on unit heat rejection and acceptable air temperature rise within the enclosure. While it’s important to follow every pertinent point in the installation guide, it’s equally important to keep in mind the broad concepts of genset installation. We’ll look at those in a minute. But first let’s review some general safety information related to genset operation that can affect genset installation. Electromechanical equipment, including generator sets, transfer switches, switchgear, and accessories, can cause bodily harm and pose lifethreatening danger when improperly installed, operated, or maintained. Dangers, warnings, and cautions are outlined in the installation manual to alert the operator to special instructions concerning a procedure that may be hazardous if performed incorrectly. T These safety alerts alone cannot eliminate the hazards that they signal. Strict compliance with these special instructions and common sense operation are crucial in preventing major accidents. When working with gensets, observe all warnings found on the equipment. Ensure that warning labels are legible and not obstructed by dirt, grease, or other equipment. The genset manufacturer cannot anticipate every possible circumstance that might involve a hazard. Therefore, the warnings in the installation manual and on tags and decals affixed to equipment are not all-inclusive. Follow all applicable codes The first broad concept in generator set installation is code compliance. NFPA compliance is critical, and of the several NFPA codes, NFPA 110 has the broadest application to both standby and emergency gensets. NFPA 70, which covers such electrical components as conductors and raceways, also has broad application in genset installation. Agencies in each layer of government, from the federal government down to the township level, can impose their own additional codes. UL 2200 certification is available on many models of gensets, which goes a long way to ensure code compliance. UL 2200 covers stationary engine generator assemblies rated 600 V or less that are intended for use in ordinary locations. “Ordinary” means applications other than hazardous (classified) locations, uninterruptible power supplies, and marine use, which are all covered under separate codes. Included Consulting-Specifying Engineer • FEBRUARY 2009 33

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Consulting-Specifying Engineer - February 2009 Contents Viewpoint News M/E Roundtable Codes & Standards Electrical Modernization: A Tale of Two Hospitals Retrofitting Office Lighting Controls Case Study New Products Equipment Lifecycles Advertiser Index Green Space

Consulting-Specifying Engineer - February 2009

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