Application and Installation Guide
This is considered to be 90% of
rated frequency. Figure 20
graphically shows a packaged
genset’s typical starting
performance.
Figure 19
Ten-Second Start
Ten-second start refers to the
ability of a non-paralleled generator
set to start, accelerate to rated
speed and be ready to accept load
within 10 seconds after receiving
a signal to start.
For 10-second starting, the
following conditions must exist:
1. Cranking batteries must be
adequately sized and fully
charged.
Note: there is a difference
for battery versus ambient
temperature sizing. Also, in
cases where air starting is used,
the air system must supply the
required air volume and
maintain a 100 psi (689.5 kPa)
minimum pressure.
2. Combustion air must be a
minimum of 21°C (70°F).
3. A jacket water heater to
maintain a minimum of
32°C (90°F) jacket water
temperature.
4. A readily available supply of
clean fuel.
5. The generator rotating inertia
must not exceed that of the
standard Cat Generator.
Page 34
EP Applications, Engine & Generator Sizing
Any variation in these conditions
will affect the start time.
Natural Gas Engines
Special engine conditioning is
required for a natural gas engine
to start in 10 seconds. Ten-second
starting is only possible on specific
gas engines. Consult the factory for
specific engine model starting
requirements.
Starting condition requirements
for natural gas engines are the
same as diesel engine starting
requirements, except for one detail:
The solenoid gas valve must be
located as closely as possible to the
carburetor or “A” regulator,
depending on the fuel train consists.
A maximum distance of 0.61 m (2 ft)
is desired.
A customer’s starting time
requirements should be determined
before sizing the genset. A quick
starting application requires
consider-ation of altitude,
temperature and other factors that
affect the engine starting to find the
best solution.
Refer to Emergency & Fast
Starting in the Starting Systems
Application and Installation Guide
for more information.
Health Care Facilities & NFPA 99
The standard NFPA 99 is written
specifically for health care facilities.
3-4.1.1.8 states the following:
“The generator set(s) shall have
sufficient capacity to pick up the
load and meet the minimum
frequency and voltage stability
requirements of the emergency
system within 10 seconds after
loss of normal power.”
Customers requiring this
capability can achieve it by using
the correct generator system. Select
an appropriate genset according to
this standard for all health care
facilities in the United States.
Sizing a genset requires
knowledge of the customer’s loads
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