Diesel Engine Driven Generator
Diesel Engine Driven Generator
(OP)
We've got a project where we are specifying a 2 Mw genset with a remote radiator package. The manufacture's rep just told me that as of Jan 1, 06, the Environmental Protection Agency here in California will no longer permit any air to water aftercoolers for the engines. For the project I'm involved in the remote radiator package was the only way we could fit the unit in the existing generator room. If the unit cannot have a remote radiator, I'm going to need more room. The rep also told me there was as yet no data on the new units.
Has anyone out there run across air to air aftercooled engines on Generator sets? The unit is a 2000kw, 480y/277v, 3ph, 4w. unit using a CAT 3516 TA engine that we've spec'd now. Does anyone know of other manufacturer's that use the air to air aftercoolers. And last but not least can one of you engine-eers explain to this electrical type what exactly an aftercooler does? After what?
Any input would be greatly appreciated.
Has anyone out there run across air to air aftercooled engines on Generator sets? The unit is a 2000kw, 480y/277v, 3ph, 4w. unit using a CAT 3516 TA engine that we've spec'd now. Does anyone know of other manufacturer's that use the air to air aftercoolers. And last but not least can one of you engine-eers explain to this electrical type what exactly an aftercooler does? After what?
Any input would be greatly appreciated.





RE: Diesel Engine Driven Generator
To give my background, we run natural gas compressors for pipelines, and use Waukesha 7044’s which is similar to the Cat 3500 series.
An aftercooler is used in the air intake and cools the air after the turbocharger compresses it. It is virtually the same as an intercooler in an auto application. The turbo both from compression and some from the high exhaust temp heats up the air that is used to burn the fuel in the cylinder. By cooling the air by using engine coolant, the air temperature is reduced and more air can be stuffed into the cylinder, this creates a more efficient engine.
Yes, air to air exchangers are made, but I have not personally seem them in this application.
Good Luck
dwedel
Hotrod Big Engines!
For site policies and guidelines
see FAQ731-376
RE: Diesel Engine Driven Generator
Inside the aftercooler is a long radiator core. In marine applications it's cooled by seawater exiting the seawater pump, usually the coolest water available in quantity. From there, the slightly warmed seawater travels to the main heat exchanger(s), and then back to the sea.
Maybe the Cal EPA is assuming that you'd use a flow of groundwater to cool the aftercooler, and then discard the water after using it just once. It should be possible to
cool the aftercooler by circulating water/glycol through it and a remote radiator.
That would likely be smaller than, and separate from, the remote radiator used to cool the engine coolant. You want the aftercooler's coolant temperature lower than the engine's coolant temperature if at all possible.
Your Friendly Local Caterpillar Dealer should be able to bury you in technical information, including specific detailed data on a bewildering assortment of heat exchangers and radiators.
Mike Halloran
NOT speaking for
DeAngelo Marine Exhaust Inc.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA
RE: Diesel Engine Driven Generator
As you can see EEJamie, there are many options to chose from. Boats are different from compressor packages and both may be different from a genset in California. Good luck searching for your information.
dwedel
Hotrod Big Engines!
For site policies and guidelines
see FAQ731-376
RE: Diesel Engine Driven Generator
I'm just repeating what the manufacturer told me, so don't get too technical on this sparky. We are contacting other manufacturers to try to confirm this.
Again, thank you for all your help.
EEJAIME
RE: Diesel Engine Driven Generator
I think the difference in EPA requirements comes from the fuel, as you noted. You use diesel, and we use natural gas. (My second guess on this post.)
Thanks for replying with your information.
dwedel
Hotrod Big Engines!
For site policies and guidelines
see FAQ731-376
RE: Diesel Engine Driven Generator
Mike Halloran
NOT speaking for
DeAngelo Marine Exhaust Inc.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA
RE: Diesel Engine Driven Generator
dwedel
Hotrod Big Engines!
For site policies and guidelines
see FAQ731-376