Speed controllers / Load sharing controllers

[NickParker]

We have a total of five generators; three of them are identical (Diesel generator sets) , while the other two (1 small diesel generator and 1 steam generator).
I'm trying to determine whether each generator requires its own parallel controller, or if a centralized controller can be used to send control signals to each governor and AVR.
which controller would be best choice for the supervision and control of the load sharing between the engines/generator? Considering the wide range of controllers available on the market, from manufacturers like Woodward and DEIF, it is difficult for me to narrow the choices.

 

[waross]

We ran 5 diesel sets, (3 identical and two smaller sets) for years without a controller.
All in droop.
Operators checked the load every 15 minutes and added or removed sets from on-line as needed.
The basic is a controller that monitors the load and starts and stops sets as needed.

 

[waross]

An example;
At 80% load on the producing sets, add another set.
At 70% load on the producing sets, drop off a set.
In the real world, check the capacities to avoid short cycling.
The % values I used were WAGs.

 

[TugboatEng]

Small islanded systems don't need a centralized controller. The controller costs are so low now you simply buy a controller for each set. Tune them until they work correctly.