Magnetic Fields from Large Standby Generators
Magnetic Fields from Large Standby Generators
(OP)
We need to install a large standby generator. 800kw. Not sure of the amp rating. The most convenient location is just outside our building next to the computer services offices. The walls are brick, approx 1 ft thick with windows. The genset might be as close as 20ft from the wall. Will the magnetic field from the generator be an issue, and if so, how far away will it be? And the conductors coming into the building come in under the same computer offices where the mainframe and servers are. How much concern should this cause. I'm not an EE PE, I usually handle civil site work, so speak slowly and use simple words.
thanks
thanks






RE: Magnetic Fields from Large Standby Generators
At 20 feet, I wouldn't be worried at all. The generator's magnetic field is surrounded by steel, which will provide an excellent shield for any stray flux. Generators are designed to keep the magnetic field inside the machine - that is what makes them work.
The only issue might be the large power cables entering the building from the generator and location of automatic transfer switch and panelboard. Routing the power feeders in steel conduit will help a great deal. Locating the transfer switch and panelboard away from the computers is also advisable.
The computers themselves are probably generating a lot more electrical noise than the generator will be providing.
Assume you thought about vibration and real noise?
RE: Magnetic Fields from Large Standby Generators
RE: Magnetic Fields from Large Standby Generators
An 800 kW generator providing power at 480 Volts, 3 phase has a main distribution feeder capability of aroung 1200 Amps. This is a substantial amount of current and care should be taken to route this away from sensitive equipment.
RE: Magnetic Fields from Large Standby Generators
All-in-all, I doubt it'll be a problem.
RE: Magnetic Fields from Large Standby Generators
There's a lot of unnecessary concern about magnetic fields. Those who know the least are the most concerned.
But, there are cases where magnetic fields from motors and generators are a problem. When I do measurements on big motors/generators, it is convenient to put the scope between a couple of the cooling ribs on the motor/generator housing. The scope usually works quite well, but now and then it self-resets (the Fluke 199 seems to be more sensitive than others).
If I move the scope a foot or two away from the machine, the self-reset never happens.
Circuitry in a scope is largely the same as in a computer nowadays.
So a safe distance seems to be like one yard or so.
Gunnar Englund
www.gke.org
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100 % recycled posting: Electrons, ideas, finger-tips have been used over and over again...
RE: Magnetic Fields from Large Standby Generators
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Sometimes I only open my mouth to swap feet...
RE: Magnetic Fields from Large Standby Generators
Gunnar Englund
www.gke.org
--------------------------------------
100 % recycled posting: Electrons, ideas, finger-tips have been used over and over again...
RE: Magnetic Fields from Large Standby Generators
RE: Magnetic Fields from Large Standby Generators
RE: Magnetic Fields from Large Standby Generators
Gunnar Englund
www.gke.org
--------------------------------------
100 % recycled posting: Electrons, ideas, finger-tips have been used over and over again...