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11. Generator option
11.1 Introduction
This manual describes the operation and
maintenance of synchronous generators
with switchboxes for no-load and pressure
reduction.
All information relates to data available at
the time of going to press.
The manufacturer reserves the right to
make changes at any time, without prior
notice or obligation. It is therefore always
advisable to check for updates.
No part of this publication may be
reproduced or transmitted in any form or by
any means, without the prior written
consent of the manufacturer.
Synchronous generators may only be
used as such. No other form of use is
permitted.
11.2 Generator safety precautions
Danger
Do not top up current-generating units
(generators) with fuel during operation!
Follow the additional fire and explosion
protection regulations in the case of
installation in enclosed spaces.
Attention! Exhaust gases are toxic!
Do not operate generators in non-
ventilated, enclosed spaces!
Check that electrical loads and their
connections are in perfect condition.
Synchronous generators operate safely
and reliably. Before commissioning,
read through the safety precautions in
this manual carefully.
* Ensure that children under the age of
fourteen and animals do not have
access to the generator while it is
running.
* To avoid endangering people or
animals, or causing accidents or
damage to the machine, always
carry out the usual checks before
switching the generator on.
* There is always a risk of electric
shock if a generator is used
improperly. Never touch the
generator, or equipment connected
to it, with wet hands.
* When using several generators, or if
the public mains is available, do not
interconnect these systems.
* Caution! Connecting the generator to
the public mains can damage it and
severely endanger personnel.
* The IP 54 protection means the
generator is protected against
splashes, spray and other foreign
bodies. Do not, however, clean the
generator with high-pressure
equipment.
* Generators may only accept up to
their nominal load if operated
according to the standard
temperature range and cooling
conditions specified. If installed
under different conditions, or if
cooling of the engine or generator is
impaired, for example in confined
spaces or under unfavourable
circumstances, their output must be
reduced.
* Do not modify the generator/
switchbox. Such changes, or the use
of unsuitable parts, will invalidate
approval under machinery safety
legislation and certification to
EU/EEC Directives.
11.3 Operating principle
The generator is a self-excited brushless
synchronous internal pole generator which
is controlled electronically. It consists of
the main machine, exciter, rotary rectifiers
and generator regulator assemblies,
housed in a common enclosure. The main
machine of the synchronous 3-phase
generators has various design features,
including a damping cage and balancing
system, which allow it to handle an
extremely asymmetrical load. All of the
other equipment required for safe electrical
operation is accommodated in the directly
mounted switchbox.
The splashproof and dustproof generator
is driven by the engine using V-belts. Over
the range from no-load to nominal output,
the voltage it supplies is controlled by a
highly integrated electronic regulator,
which is fully encapsulated in the cover of
the switchbox, so that the output voltage
over this range complies with IEC 38
requirements. This standard is comparable
with the public mains.
The stability of the output frequency is
entirely dependent on that of the speed of
the combustion engine. You must therefore
ensure that this engine is serviced,
maintained and operated properly.
If the generator is overloaded briefly (for
less than the thermal response time of the
circuit breaker), or devices with excessive
startup consumption levels are connected,
the regulator automatically limits the
output/startup consumption (through the
excitation current). This leads to a (desired)
withdrawal of the output voltage. Please
take account of this when operating several
devices simultaneously on your generator.
Note
Switch devices (loads) on one after the
other, starting with that with the least
favourable startup characteristics.
If the generator is extremely dirty,
insufficiently ventilated, or operating under
otherwise unacceptable conditions, to
prevent it or the regulator being damaged
by overheating, the output voltage is
reduced to about half its nominal value if
the temperature inside the switchbox
exceeds 80 °C. This compromises the
connected devices, which must be
switched off or unplugged immediately.
Always avoid operating the generator
under such conditions, and keep it clean
(particularly fan cowl air inlets, cooling fins).
The generator is fitted with a thermal-
magnetic circuit breaker, which not only
protects against overloads, but also
switches off in the event of an insulation
fault on a connected device. Interruption of
power distribution during operation may be
caused by an insulation fault on a device
(in which case an indicator lamp comes
on), or an overload (when it does not). If an
overload has occurred, eliminate its cause,
wait for a short time, then reset the circuit
breaker. On generators with a hinged glass
cover over the circuit breaker, open the
cover, grasp the breaker’s operating
handle and push upwards (always in the
centre = yellow mark, not on one side!).
Then carefully close the cover again, and
tighten its knurled screws, without exerting
force. After the circuit breaker has released
due to an overload (indicator lamp off), wait
for a short time until it can be reset. The
thermal-magnetic or thermal circuit breaker
is designed in accordance with the
machine specifications, particularly in
relation to shock and vibration resistance,
and ambient temperature. Only use an
original part if replacements are needed.