How to connect?
When building power supply systems, there is a typical DGS connection diagram.
The variability in the typical connection scheme arises from:
- output voltage values;
- the location of the control module;
- functions of automatic transfer switch (ATS) (lack or presence of a panel) - is available in almost all the latest modifications, as it prevents the possibility of connecting the unit in the presence of electric current in the network.
A typical connection diagram contains the following components:
- directly DGU;
- ATS panel;
- rocker switch (QS);
- main control panel;
- electrical panel;
- generator switch QF1;
- switch protecting the auxiliary power cable QF2;
- electrical cable;
- remote control cable;
- cable that supplies its own needs.
DGS preparation plan for connection:
- DGS must be eliminated from the influence of precipitation and direct rays of the sun;
- it is necessary to connect a forced ventilation system to prevent overheating of the diesel generator set during operation;
- prevent sudden temperature surges;
- the scheme for connecting a diesel generator set with or without auto start must contain safety components that prevent chemicals, exhaust gases, dust, and so on from entering the mechanisms;
- when installing DGS in the open air, the connection diagram must contain elements of external protection, containers, noise-absorbing casings.
The most difficult thing is the installation and connection of electrical circuits. Here are the main steps.
- The switchboard is connected. And also it is necessary to provide the ATS circuit with power.
- High-quality laying and marking of auxiliary circuits of diesel generator sets.
- All cables are connected.
A diesel generator with auto start is presented below.
SDMO T17KM and Pramac GВW22Y review
Some of the most famous and popular in the line of 15 kW diesel generators are SDMO T17KM and Pramac GВW22Y.
SDMO T17KM and Pramac GВW22Y in their basic configuration include:
- Automatic protection
- Speed controller, mechanical
- Prefabricated welding frame
- Cables, shelf and starter battery
- Fuel tank that is built-in
- A special grille, which is installed on a fan with rotating parts, as well as a radiator designed for 45-50 degrees Celsius air temperature.
Pramac GВW22Y can additionally contain an automatic start system and a protective cover, which serves for noise insulation.
In terms of mass, power plants are also not very different. The SDMO T17KM weighs 580 kg and the Pramac GВW22Y 493 kg.
Main characteristics of SDMO T17KM:
- power: 15 kW
- engine: Mitsubishi
- number of phases: 1
- fuel tank with a volume of 100 l
- fuel consumption approx. 4.7 l / h
The main characteristics of the Pramac GВW22Y:
- power: 15.2 kW
- engine: Yanmar
- number of phases: 3
- fuel tank with a volume of 51 l
- fuel consumption average 3.8 l / h
As you can see from the main characteristics, the Pramac GВW22Y consumes significantly less fuel than the SDMO T17KM, which is a huge plus.
When buying an electric generator, you must first of all take into account all its characteristics and opt for one that, at a low price, will have good quality, and will also be economical to use.
Varieties
Aggregates with an autostart option can be grouped using the same method as for units with a manual start. As a rule, they are divided into groups according to purpose and parameters with which the unit is endowed. It is easy to understand the meaning of these specifications. First of all, you need to know which object will be powered from an additional source, in this case, 2 types of installations can be distinguished:
- household;
- industrial.
Also generators can be broken down according to such criteria.
By type of fuel
Varieties:
- diesel;
- gas;
- gasoline.
There are still solid fuel types of installations, however, they are not so common. In terms of the above, each technique has its pros and cons.
A diesel generator is usually more expensive than its prototypes operating on other types of fuel, does not show itself well in frost, which forces it to be placed in separate closed-type rooms. In addition, the motor is noisier.
The gas generator is the most widespread and easiest to use, represented by the largest number of modifications on the market, in various price categories, which has become its key advantage. The disadvantages of this unit: impressive fuel consumption, a small work resource, however, at the same time, it is most bought for economic purposes and prepared for auto start in the event of a power outage.
The gas generator is the most economical in terms of fuel consumption compared to its competitors, it makes less noise and has a long service life when used correctly. The main disadvantage is the risk of working with gas and more complicated refueling. Gas units are operated mainly at production facilities, since such equipment requires highly qualified service personnel. In everyday life, gasoline and diesel generators are practiced - they are simpler and less dangerous.
By phase difference
The units are single-phase (220 V) and 3-phase (380 V). Single-phase and 3-phase - different installations, they have their own characteristics and working conditions. 3-phase should be chosen if there are only 3-phase consumers (nowadays, in country houses or small industries, such are rarely found).
By power
Low-power (up to 5 kW), medium-power (up to 15 kW) or powerful (over 15 kW). This division is very relative. Practice shows that a unit with a maximum power in the range of up to 5-7 kW is enough to provide household electrical appliances. Organizations with a small number of consumers (mini-workshop, office, small store) can actually get by with an autonomous power station of 10-15 kW. And only industries using powerful production equipment have a need for generating sets of 20-30 kW or more.
Model overview
A good example of a 5 kW power generator is the LDG6000CL-3 from Amperos.
But it is important to understand that 5 kW here is the maximum power. The nominal figure is 4.5 kW
From a fuel tank with a capacity of 12.5 liters, 1.3 liters of fuel will be taken hourly.
Choosing a 6 kW model, you should focus on the TCC SDG 6000ES3-2R. This generator comes with an enclosure and an electric starter, which is very convenient.
Other properties worth noting:
-
power factor 0.8;
-
1 working cylinder;
-
air cooling;
-
twisting speed 3000 rpm;
-
lubrication system with a volume of 1.498 liters.
A decent diesel 8 kW is, for example, "Azimut AD 8-T400". Peak power can reach 8.8 kW. Installed a tank with a volume of 26.5 liters. Fuel consumption per hour - 2.5 liters. The device can supply 230 or 400 V.
Among the devices with a power of 10 kW, it is worth paying attention to the TCC SDG 10000 EH3. Starting the synchronous generator into operation is provided by an electric starter
The two-cylinder diesel engine helps the dynamo generate 230 or 400 V. The air-cooled engine spins at up to 3000 rpm. At 75% load, it will consume 3.5 liters of fuel per hour.
Power of 12 kW is developed by Istok AD12-T400-VM161E. This generator can supply 230 or 400 V. The amperage reaches 21.7 A. As in previous models, air-cooled is used. For an hour of operation, when loading by ¾, 3.8 liters of fuel will be taken from the tank.
Also worth noting is the Genese DC15 powered by YangDong.The motor rotation speed is 1500 rpm. Moreover, it is equipped with a liquid cooling system. The generator is of the synchronous type and produces a current with a frequency of 50 Hz, which can be used in domestic conditions.
But quite a few people need 15 kW diesel generators. Then the CTG AD-22RE will do. The device is started by an electric starter and produces 17 kW in peak mode. Fuel consumption at 75% loading reaches 6.5 liters. At the same time, the capacity of the fuel tank is 80 liters, so it is definitely enough for 10-11 hours.
As an alternative, you can consider the Hertz HG 21 PC. The peak power of the generator reaches 16.7 kW. The motor rotates at a speed of 1500 rpm and is cooled by a special fluid system. Fuel tank capacity - 90 liters.
If a 20 kW generator is required, MVAE AD-20-400-R can be an excellent choice. Peak short-term power is 22 kW. 3.9 liters of fuel will be consumed per hour. Electrical protection level - IP23. The current strength reaches 40A.
But in some cases it is required to provide a power of 30 kW. Then the Airman SDG45AS will do. The current of this generator is 53 A. The designers have carefully thought out liquid cooling. Fuel consumption per hour reaches 6.4 liters (at 75%), and the tank capacity is 165 liters.
As an alternative, you can consider "PSM AD-30". This generator will give out a current of 54 A, the voltage will be 230 or 400 V. 6.9 liters of fuel are taken from a 120 liter tank per hour.
This Russian product comes with a one-year warranty.
How to install?
But how and where to install the unit? How not to violate the requirements of the Rules in order not to have problems and short circuit in the future? This is not difficult if you do everything consistently. Let's start in order.
Selection of the place of installation and construction of the "house"
The unit, in the depths of which the internal combustion engine operates, constantly smokes with exhaust gases, among which the most dangerous is odorless and colorless carbon monoxide (carbon monoxide). It is unthinkable to place the unit in a dwelling, even when it is beautifully and regularly ventilated. To protect the generator from adverse weather conditions and to reduce noise, it is advisable to install the unit in an individual "house" - purchased or handicraft.
Connecting the unit to the mains
The automation panel is placed in front of the main electrical panel of the house. The incoming electric cable is connected to the input terminals of the automation panel, the generator is connected to the 2nd input group of contacts. From the automation panel, the electrical cable goes to the main panel of the house. Now the automation panel constantly monitors the incoming voltage of the house: the electricity has disappeared - the electronics turns on the unit, and then transfers the power supply of the house to it.
When the mains voltage occurs, it initiates the opposite algorithm: it transfers the power of the house to the mains, and then turns off the unit. Be sure to ground the generator, even if it’s something like an armature hammered into the soil with an improvised grounding.
In the next video, you will find a detailed overview of an auto-start generator for home and summer cottages.
The use of diesel power plants 15 kW
Very often, a 15 kW diesel power plant is used as a backup power source in schools, kindergartens, bank offices, grocery stores, government and medical institutions. Using a 15 kW power plant will allow you to avoid breakdown and damage due to surges in electricity, expensive equipment, as well as spoilage of food in the case of supermarkets. If necessary, such 15 kW power plants can be equipped with an employee's device for automatically turning on the backup supply, that is, they will independently begin to function if the main source of electricity is turned off.
Advantages and disadvantages
The main advantage of these installations is that the start-up and shutdown of power plants is carried out without human intervention.Other pluses include:
- high reliability of automation;
- protection against short circuits (SC) during the operation of the unit;
- minimal support.
The reliability of the emergency power supply system is achieved by checking the automatic reserve switching system of the conditions, the compliance of which allows the start-up of the unit. These are related to:
- lack of short circuit in the operated line;
- the fact of activation of the circuit breaker;
- presence or absence of tension in the controlled area.
If any of the above conditions are not met, the command to start the motor will not be given. Speaking of shortcomings, it can be noted that electric generators with auto-start systems need special control over the condition of the battery and timely refueling. If the generator is inactive for a long time, its start should be checked.
