StandbyGas Generator Testing
StandbyGas Generator Testing
(OP)
I know that for diesel engine generators we like to use load banks so that monthly testing of the generator can be done under load due to gumming(coking) up of the engine issues, but is the same scenario true for natural gas generators, or not.






RE: StandbyGas Generator Testing
RE: StandbyGas Generator Testing
Would recommend that if you have a requirement to do regular testing without building load, a test load source becomes pretty important, or the simple act of doing regular "reliablity tests" actually degrade the engines ability to perform properly.
RE: StandbyGas Generator Testing
The best exercise you can provide for your generator is to be able to parallel it with the utility (special requirements must be met) and run it up to full output for an hour or so per month.
RE: StandbyGas Generator Testing
Yes I recognize the technical safety hurtles - they may cost more than a load bank.
Keith Cress
Flamin Systems, Inc.- http://www.flaminsystems.com
RE: StandbyGas Generator Testing
RE: StandbyGas Generator Testing
Last year we had over a dozen units that had been run no load for 10 minutes once a month that during their annual load test would not carry load due to fouled plugs and loaded cylinders.
Was surprising to many people including us, but we have found this is case with many of our competitors as well, especially the smaller auto derived units. With older design units this was not as much of an probleme, but with people wanting more out of smaller packages, this seems to be an increasing issue.
We have also found many utilites not willing to allow interconnect for smaller units without significant investment into controls and protection, that usually for exceed cost of a duct mounted load bank or smaller external unit. Also find the air districts will not be very receptive to it as well, and if they find you can go parallel to grid, want to rewrite your air permit.
The funny flip side of that is now there are a couple of companies working for SDG&E and SCE actually looking for units to parallel if they can get the required air permits and can install the equipment.
Used to be California was the only place folks had to contend with air pollution issues, but now it seems to be expanding across the US at a pretty good rate, at least based on the inquiries we get.
RE: StandbyGas Generator Testing
BTW we are talking Natural Gas, correct?
Keith Cress
Flamin Systems, Inc.- http://www.flaminsystems.com
RE: StandbyGas Generator Testing
You hit it right, the newer engines, all turbocharged, all had acceptance tests of less than 1 hour, both NG and propane. Of the 12, seven wore our colors, and 5 were competitors units we have under contract.
The combination of cost concerns and air permit restrictions makes keeping things running as they should a real challenge some days.
RE: StandbyGas Generator Testing