Generator Sets

Overview
– Whether the goal is meeting business needs or conforming to code requirements, most large organizations include generators in new facility designs. But planning for back-up power is no simple task, and the sizeable investment involved makes it essential that facility executives understand the pivotal decision-making points in a generator project. 

– Engine Generators: Available in 5 Kva to 2000 Kva ratings. Available in Diesel, Natural Gas & Propane Fuel. JDL Solutions provides comprehensive engineering and installation services. We handle all aspects of the requirements including: site audits, conceptual layout plans, design drawings, project management, and installation.
Engine generators manufactured by: Caterpillar, Onan-Cummins,  and Kholer. 

Documenting the Load
– The first step is identifying what the generator will power. Every building that has a generator will have two types of loads: those for which codes require emergency power and those for business-critical systems. Each load must be documented. It is wrong to assume that a generator will cover the entire electrical system and that it will be business as usual in the event of a utility outage. This level of backup requires a significant outlay of capital; whether that investment is called for can only be determined by analyzing a facility’s needs.

Picking the right location
– A second important step for facility executives is deciding where to locate the generator. Generators are more frequently located outside than inside, but both locations have pros and cons. A third option is placing a generator in a penthouse or on the roof.

Controlling noise and vibration
– The third step — addressing noise and vibration — must be dealt with whether the generator is indoors or out. Outdoor generators can sometimes be placed far enough away from a facility that the noise is not a problem. However, smaller sites may not have this option, and even for larger facilities, the best screening area may be close to the building.

Choosing the appropriate fuel source
– Along with size and location, the facility executive needs to select the fuel source — step four. The generator’s size and the area’s seismic classification influence this decision. Although cost varies from region to region, a good rule of thumb is that natural gas-fueled generators are less expensive in sizes below the range of roughly 150 to 175 kw, at which point natural gas and diesel break even. For generators with a capacity of 350 kw or more, diesel is the most cost-effective option.

Keeping up with the details
– Step five involves addressing other switch and exhaust details in a generator project that shouldn’t be overlooked.

First, facility executives shouldn’t forget about transfer switches. Facility executives also need to consider potential problems with exhaust. The risk of exhaust gases finding their way into the HVAC air intake can be an issue for all generators, but that’s especially true for roof-mounted units.

After the installation
– Of course, the project won’t be a success if the generator isn’t used and maintained properly, and making sure those things happen is step six. The user interface, maintenance and emergency response plan are critical. So is training: The operation of the generator annunciator may not be intuitive to the person who monitors it, but some may not even know that it is related to the generator. The location of the emergency shutoff button needs to be clearly marked, and signage needs to be clearly placed for responding firefighters. Diesel units require a plan for emergency fueling — a five-gallon gas can will not do when the generator consumes 10 gallons per hour.