Republic of the Philippines

De La Salle University Dasmariñas

Dasmariñas, Cavite
College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

MEET310
Basic Mechanical Engineering Lecture

APPLICATIONS OF GENERATOR
SETS IN A BUILDING

Group # 11
1. Sabino, Axl Haynes
2. Garcia, Christine Joy A.
3. Magahis, Pamela Nicole B.

Submitted To: Engineer Hicaro

Professor
I. What is a Generator?
A standby generator is a back-up electrical system that operates automatically. Within seconds of
a utility outage an automatic transfer switch senses the power loss, commands the generator to
start and then transfers the electrical load to the generator. Most units run on diesel, natural gas
or liquid propane gas.

II. Parts of Generator

Main components of a generator - The main components of an electric generator can be broadly
classified as follows.
(1) Engine (6) Lubrication System
(2) Alternator (7) Battery Charger
(3) Fuel System (8) Control Panel
(4) Voltage Regulator (9) Main Assembly / Frame
(5) Cooling and Exhaust Systems

Explanation
1. Engine
The engine is the source of the input mechanical energy to the generator. The
size of the engine is directly proportional to the maximum power output the
generator can supply.
Type of Fuel Used – Generator engines operate on a variety of fuels
such as diesel, gasoline, propane (in liquefied or gaseous form), or
natural gas. Smaller engines usually operate on gasoline while larger
 engines run on diesel, liquid propane, propane gas, or natural gas. Certain engines can
also operate on a dual feed of both diesel and gas in a bi-fuel operation mode.

2. Alternator
The alternator, also known as the ‘genhead’, is the part of the generator that produces the
electrical output from the mechanical input supplied by the engine.

3. Fuel System
The fuel tank usually has sufficient capacity to keep the generator
operational for 6 to 8 hours on an average.

4. Voltage Regulator
As the name implies, this component regulates the output voltage of the
generator.

5. Cooling & Exhaust Systems

a. Cooling System
Continuous usage of the generator causes its various components to get heated up. It is essential
to have a cooling and ventilation system to withdraw heat produced in the process.
It is essential to check the coolant levels of the generator on a daily basis. The cooling system
and raw water pump should be flushed after every 600 hours The generator should be placed in
an open and ventilated area that has adequate supply of fresh air. The National Electric Code
(NEC) mandates that a minimum space of 3 feet should be allowed on all sides of the generator
to ensure free flow of cooling air.

b. Exhaust System
Exhaust fumes emitted by a generator are just like exhaust from any other diesel or gasonline
engine and contain highly toxic chemicals that need to be properly managed. Hence, it is
essential to install an adequate exhaust system to dispose of the exhaust gases.
Exhaust pipes are usually made of cast iron, wrought iron, or steel. These need to be freestanding
and should not be supported by the engine of the generator. Exhaust pipes are usually attached to
the engine using flexible connectors to minimize vibrations and prevent damage to the
generator’s exhaust system. The exhaust pipe terminates outdoors and leads away from doors,
windows and other openings to the house or building.

6. Lubricating System
Since the generator comprises moving parts in its engine, it requires lubrication to ensure
durability and smooth operations for a long period of time. The generator’s engine is lubricated
by oil stored in a pump. You should check the level of lubricating oil every 8 hours of generator
operation. You should also check for any leakages of lubricant and change the lubricating oil
every 500 hours of generator operation.
7. Battery Charger
The start function of a generator is battery-operated. The battery charger keeps the generator
battery charged by supplying it with a precise ‘float’ voltage. If the float voltage is very low, the
battery will remain undercharged. If the float voltage is very high, it will shorten the life of the
battery.

8. Control Panel
This is the user interface of the generator and contains provisions for
electrical outlets and controls. Different manufacturers have varied
features to offer in the control panels of their units. Some of these are
mentioned below.
a. Electric start and shut-down – Auto start control panels
automatically start your generator during a power outage, monitor the generator while in
operation, and automatically shut down the unit when no longer required.
b. Engine gauges – Different gauges indicate important parameters such as oil pressure,
temperature of coolant, battery voltage, engine rotation speed, and duration of operation.
Constant measurement and monitoring of these parameters enables built-in shut down of
the generator when any of these cross their respective threshold levels.
c. Generator gauges – The control panel also has meters for the measurement of output
current and voltage, and operating frequency.
d. Other controls – Phase selector switch, frequency switch, and engine control switch
(manual mode, auto mode) among others.

9. Main Assembly / Frame

All generators, portable or stationary, have customized housings that provide a structural base
support. The frame also allows for the generated to be earthed for safety.

III. Kinds of Generator

1. Diesel Generator
A diesel generator is the combination of a diesel engine with an electric generator (often an
alternator) to generate electrical energy. This is a specific case of engine-generator. A diesel
compression-ignition engine is usually designed to run on diesel fuel, but some types are adapted
for other liquid fuels or natural gas.

2. Electric Generator
In electricity generation, a generator is a device that converts motive power into electrical power
for use in an external circuit. Sources of mechanical energy include steam turbines, gas turbines,
water turbines, internal combustion engines and even hand cranks. The first electromagnetic
generator, the Faraday disk, was built in 1831 by British scientist Michael Faraday. Generators
provide nearly all of the power for electric power grids.
Minor type of generator:
1. Gasoline
Of all the options on the list, gasoline generators are among the most common, primarily because
gasoline is readily available and these generators are on the low-end of the cost scale. However,
gasoline is usually unavailable during power outages, because it requires electricity to pump.
Gasoline generators are available in small sizes, ideal for portable models, but the fuel is highly
flammable.

2. Propane Gas (Vapor and Liquid)

Propane boasts a longer shelf life than gasoline or diesel fuels, and burns far cleaner. It is easily
stored in any quantity, and is readily available even during power outages. Propane produces
relatively low emissions, and is not subject to "wet stacking" common in diesel generators.
Propane generators are generally affordable, and last a long time. Propane also starts easily in
cold temperatures, and offers quiet operation.

3. Natural Gas
Natural gas is readily available in almost every location, and the new shale reserves opened up
by fracking techniques mean a virtually limitless supply. Because natural gas lines are run to the
site of operation, these generators never run out of fuel or need to be refilled. This also means
that the generators are not portable.
Natural gas generators burn cleanly with very little wasteThe disadvantages of natural gas
generatorsinclude higher installation costs, due to running the gas lines. These generators do not
typically last as long as diesel generators, and if the gas lines are broken this could lead to a
dangerous leak..

4. Hydrogen
Since the 1800s, people have worked on developing a generator that could produce power from
hydrogen. Hydrogen is tremendously abundant (particularly from water sources), is non-toxic,
clean, cheap, and produces more energy per pound than any other fuel source.
In the 1940s, experiments began to create a hydrogen powered vehicle, and attempts continue
today. Though not as readily available as some other types of generators, hydrogen generators
are portable and useful for many environments, including laboratories. When equipped with
proper safety features, hydrogen generators are also safe and portable.

IV. Emergency Power System

An emergency power system is an independent source of electrical power that supports
important electrical systems on loss of normal power supply. A standby power system may
include a standby generator, batteries and other apparatus. Emergency power systems are
installed to protect life and property from the consequences of loss of primary electric power
supply.
V. How does it work?
A standby generator system and automatic transfer switch are professionally installed to your
home’s existing wiring. Constantly at the ready, the system senses when utility power stops
flowing to your home for any reason, thus sensing a power outage. Within seconds, the
automatic transfer switch seamlessly transfers your home’s selected electrical circuits and
appliances to backup power. Once the generator system senses utility power is back online, your
home is automatically transferred back to utility power and the standby generator is shut down
until it’s needed the next time.

VI. Operation
Main power can be lost due to downed lines, malfunctions at a sub-station, inclement weather,
planned blackouts or in extreme cases a grid-wide failure. In modern buildings, most emergency
power systems have been and are still based on generators. Usually, these generators are Diesel
engine driven, although smaller buildings may use a gasoline engine driven generator and larger
ones a gas turbine. However, lately, more use is being made of deep cycle batteries and other
technologies such as flywheel energy storageor fuel cells. These latter systems do not produce
polluting gases, thereby allowing the placement to be done within the building. Also, as a second
advantage, they do not require a separate shed to be built for fuel storage.
With regular generators, an automatic transfer switch is used to connect emergency power. One
side is connected to both the normal power feed and the emergency power feed; and the other
side is connected to the load designated as emergency. If no electricity comes in on the normal
side, the transfer switch uses a solenoid to throw a triple pole, single throw switch. This switches
the feed from normal to emergency power. The loss of normal power also triggers a battery
operated starter system to start the generator, similar to using a car battery to start an engine.
Once the transfer switch is switched and the generator starts, the building's emergency power
comes back on (after going off when normal power was lost).
Unlike emergency lights, emergency lighting is not a type of light fixture; it is a pattern of the
building's normal lights that provides a path of lights to allow for safe exit, or lights up service
areas such as mechanical rooms and electric rooms. Exit signs, Fire alarm systems(that are not
on back up batteries) and the electric motor pumps for the fire sprinklersare almost always on
emergency power. Other equipment on emergency power may include smoke isolation dampers,
smoke evacuation fans, elevators, handicap doors and outlets in service areas. Hospitals use
emergency power outlets to power life support systems and monitoring equipment. Some
buildings may even use emergency power as part of normal operations, such as a theater using it
to power show equipment because "the show must go on."

VII. Guidelines on Application for Installation of Emergency

Generators
The objective of this is to secure a good planning practice to minimize emissions and ensure
good dispersion such that the products of combustion emitted from the emergency generators
will not pose a potential pollution to the nearby sensitive receptors.
Mandatory Requirements for Installation
1. Fuel consumption rate
Emergency generator is generally driven by diesel engine(s). If the occupier of any premises
intends to install the associated flue/chimneys for emergency generators consuming a total of
more than 25 litres of conventional liquid fuel, he / she shall require to have prior approval from
EPD for relevant installations.

2. Specified Process
In case the total power generation capacity of all the emergency generators, physically and
electrically connected, in the same premises exceeds 5MW, the establishment is liable to be
controlled under a Specified Process licence for the operation.

General Requirements
Applicants are required to provide the following relevant information in the plans and
specifications of the proposed emergency generator installation:-
1. indicate the position of the emergency generator in a layout plan drawn to a scale of not
less than 1:100;
2. indicate the site location, along with exhaust outlet, in a block plan drawn to a scale of
not less than 1:500;
3. show in the submitted plan the hourly fuel consumption rate of each emergency generator
and the grade of the fuel to be used complies with the requirements of the Air Pollution
Control (Fuel Restriction) Regulations.
4. provide the diameters and arrangement of the flues/chimneys serving the generator(s) in a
layout plan and in plans (drawn to a scale of not less than 1:100) showing the elevations
in different perspectives (front and side elevations, plan etc.);
5. demonstrate with relevant drawings and statements that the outlets of the flues/chimneys
are at least 5 m from the surrounding sensitive receptors such as openable doors /
windows, as well as any fresh air intake point of the HVAC system, and not under any
canopy or balcony
6. direct the exit of the flue(s) / chimney(s) vertically upward without rain caps;
7. if the chimney is located on an unoccupied podium/roof, it should be at a minimum
distance of 3m above the parapet wall of the podium or the highest point of any structure
on the podium/roof.
8. provide the name and the address of owner(s) of the emergency generator(s);
9. provide the detailed particulars of the generator(s) such as its/their
catalogue(s)/specifications and indicate in the submitted plan the brand name, model, fuel
consumption rate and capacity of the generator(s);
10. all plans shall be signed (except the block plan) by a qualified engineer who is a
registered professional engineer in the building services, gas, chemical, marine
mechanical or environmental engineering disciplines under the Engineers Registration
Ordinance (Cap. 409).
11. submit two (2) sets of plans; and
12. other special requirements may be deemed necessary for individual case.
Specific Requirements.
Under certain circumstances where the proposed installation may very likely cause pollution to
the nearby residents, the approving authority will strongly advise the applicants, the consultants
and the contractors concerned to implement additional mitigation measures that would help ease
the potential impacts.

1. Positioning of Chimneys (exhaust outlets)

Prevention is better than cure for a pollution problem before it emerges. It is a norm to locate the
exhaust pipe outlet (preferably with the generator sets sited to the uppermost floor) at the
building roof rather than at low level or the podium. Should it be not viable, it is essential to
locate the chimney or exhaust outlet of the generator in an appropriate manner having regard to
the following principles:
a. The exhaust outlets should be sited at such a place where the ventilation is good and in
such a manner that the emissions from them can be adequately dispersed without
hindrance; and
b. These exhaust outlets should be distant from the nearby inhabitants as farthest as possible
such that their emissions will not cause or contribute to any forms of air pollution.

2. Additional Mitigation Measures

Such additional mitigation measures may include:
a. Low emitting emergency generator –select emergency generator with low emission of
particulate matter (i.e. 0.1 g/kWh or 0.075 g/bhp-hr); and / or
b. Catalytic converter – typically a stainless steel box mounted in the exhaust system fitted
with an auto-catalyst; and / or
c. Diesel particulate trap filter (soot trap) – designed to collect at least 80% of the solid and
liquid particulate matter emissions.

VIII. Guidelines for engine-generator application designs

Effective selection and application of modern gen sets require a strong knowledge of generator
basics as well as an in-depth awareness of fuel sources and NEC requirements.
Engine-generator sets now have countless applications, often with multiple uses within the same
facility. Most engine-generator systems provide for human safety and protection of property in
applications such as office buildings, hotels, places of assembly, and government facilities.
Hospitals and nursing homes have special needs vital to life, and these emergency power systems
reflect these requirements.

Synchronous generator
Most applications today use the synchronous generator because of its versatility, reliability, and
capability of operating independently. Most modern synchronous generators are of the revolving
field alternator design. Essentially, this means that the armature windings are held stationary, and
the field is rotated.
Generator exciters
A voltage regulator is provided to control the exciter field current and, in this manner, the field
voltage can be precisely controlled, resulting in a stable, well-controlled generator output
voltage.

Voltage regulation
The output voltage of a synchronous generator is controlled by the excitation in the field
windings. To control this, the generator's voltage regulator measures the output voltage,
compares it with a standard reference voltage obtained from a Zener diode that continuously
samples output voltage, and adjusts the excitation current up or down as needed to maintain the
output voltage at its rated value. If the load varies, the excitation is continuously adjusted to keep
the voltage constant.

Frequency
Frequency of the AC current produced is dependent on two factors: The number of poles (n)
built into the machine and the speed of rotation (rpm). Thus, frequency (f) is calculated by using
the follow equation:
f = (rpm x n) / 120
Therefore, rpm = (f x 120) / n

Induction generator
An induction generator is a popular choice for use when designing cogeneration systems, where
it will operate in parallel with the utility. This type of generator offers certain advantages over a
synchronous generator. For example, voltage and frequency are controlled by the utility; thus
voltage and frequency regulators are not required. In addition, the generator construction offers
high reliability and little maintenance.

Type of driving engine

Gasoline engines ; Diesel engines ; Gaseous fuel engines ; Gas turbine sets

Factors in fuel selection

Fuel availability frequently determines the choice of the engine-generator set. If a given fuel is
already in use at the site, a genset using the same fuel may be most desirable.
If the genset is to be located in an isolated area where public utilities are not available, LPG or
diesel fuel are logical choices. If the unit is to be located in a seismic risk area, an on-site fuel
supply must be considered. A dual-fuel engine, such as a natural gas/propane unit is often
selected to satisfy this need.
Gaseous fuels. Air pollution due to engine exhaust is becoming a serious consideration, in
particular because of recent clean-air legislation. Often, a dual-fuel unit capable of burning
natural gas or propane can be advantageous because its exhaust is less toxic than that of a diesel
engine. If a dual-fuel unit is selected, be sure to check the output rating for each fuel.
Gaseous fuels, which are all clean-burning, offer minimum carbon buildup, cleaner crankcase
oil, no fuel storage problems, and less engine maintenance than either diesel or gasoline fuels.
However, LPG presents the greatest hazard of any of the fuels because any vapors leaked or
released, being heavier than air, will fill low areas such as basements, and create an explosion
hazard.
Any fuel system must be installed in accordance with applicable codes, and this is especially
important with an LPG system.
Recent EPA rulings require stricter standards for installations of fuel tanks. An approved LPG
fuel tank must be used to store liquid propane. All appropriate shut-off valves and pressure
gauges must be included. An LPG tank should never be installed inside a structure; it should be
installed outside, some distance away from any structures and away from open flames, sparks, or
electrical connections.
Gasoline. Most smaller engine-generator sets operate on gasoline for a number of reasons. The
smaller gensets (to about 100kW) are used in portable applications, such as on construction sites,
for mobile emergency power, in motor homes or recreation vehicles, etc. In these applications,
ready fuel availability is important. Also, gasoline engines start easier than diesels in cold
temperatures. Gasoline is rarely used in alternate power-source applications because storage of
this fuel can be a fire hazard, and long-term storage of gasoline can be detrimental to the engine.
Diesel fuel. In many applications, diesel fuel is chosen because it offers easy on-site storage, has
fewer problems with long-term storage, has reduced fire hazards, and is capable of more
operating hours between overhauls. A disadvantage of diesel fuel is its low volatility at low
ambient temperatures.

Combustion air
The output power of any type of engine is proportional to the lbs of fuel burned per unit of time.
For diesels, each lb of fuel requires 17 lb of air for complete combustion. When more air is
forced into the cylinder, more fuel is burned and more power is developed.

Governors
In nearly all instances, a governor applied to an engine-generator set controls engine speed to
assure the driven AC generator provides the proper frequency of the AC power output. There are
many types of governors; however, for auxiliary power applications, an isochronous governor is
normally selected. It controls the speed of the engine so it remains constant from no-load to full
load, assuring a constant AC power output frequency from the generator.
A modern system consists of two primary components: An electronic speed control and an
actuator that adjusts the speed of the engine. The electronic speed control senses actual engine
speed and provides a feedback signal to the mechanical/hydraulic actuator, which, in turn,
positions the engine throttle or fuel control to maintain a very accurate engine speed.

Controls and monitoring

A wide variety of instruments, safety devices, and controls are available for special needs. These
include a load-test switch, engine-start relays, time-clock or engine-start circuit, and engine-time
running meters. Alarm relays include overload, over/under voltage, reverse-current relays, and
ground-fault protection. Engine protection includes alarms for low fuel, low oil, low cooling
water, overtemperature, etc.

NEC-defined applications
The National Electrical Code provides guidance for safe and proper installation of on-site
engine-generator systems. Local codes may vary and must be reviewed during early design
stages.
Applicable Code rules depend on the purpose of the system under consideration. In addition, the
requirements of these rules serve as an excellent guideline that helps effective design, selection,
and installation.
Article 700 (Emergency Systems) covers systems that are legally required to be installed and that
supply loads essential to safety and life, such as emergency lighting, essential refrigeration and
ventilation, and signaling systems.
Article 701 (Legally Required Standby Systems) covers those systems required and classified as
legally required standby by municipal, state, federal, and/or other codes. These systems are
intended to supply power automatically to important selected loads in the event of failure of the
normal power source.
Article 702 (Optional Standby Systems) Optional standby systems typically serve as an alternate
power source for industrial and commercial buildings, farms, and residences by supplying such
loads as heating and refrigeration systems, data processing and communications systems, and
industrial processes which, when stopped during any power outage, could cause discomfort,
serious interruption of the process, or damage to the product or process.
Article 705 (Interconnected Electric Power Production Sources) provides rules that apply to
engine-generator sets that operate in parallel with the utility (or other sources).
Article 517 (Health Care Facilities) includes numerous regulations that apply to on-site power
systems installed in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities.
Article 455 (Generators) provides general guidelines for proper and safe installation of
generators. Regulations cover location, marking, overcurrent protection, and others. Of particular
significance is an exception to Sec. 445-4, which permits the generator overload devices to be
connected to an annunciator or alarm instead of where they would interrupt the generator circuit.

http://www.ecmweb.com/content/guidelines-engine-generator-application-designs
http://learn4electrical.altervista.org/working-and-main-parts-of-electric-generator/
file:///C:/Users/Christine%20Joy/Downloads/guidelines_for_e_generator.pdf