Generator Operation (M0124696-03)
Generator Operation (M0124696-03)
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engine to work at the rated capacity. An electrical unbalance can result in an electrical overload
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and overheating if one-phase current exceeds the nameplate amperage.
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Allowable combinations of unbalanced loads are shown in Illustration 1. When you operate with
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significant single-phase loads, the combinations of single-phase load and three-phase load may
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be used. Such combinations should be located below the line on the graph.
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Illustration 1 g00627416
Allowable Combinations of Unbalanced Loads
Block Loading
The block loading is the instantaneous application of an electrical load to a generator set. This
load may be anywhere from a moderate percentage of the rated load up to the rated load.
The block loading capability of a generator set depends on the following factors.
Type of load
If derating is required in order to block load, refer to ISO 3046 or SAE J1349 Standards. Also,
reference Engine Data Sheet, LEKX4066, "Loading Transient Response" and Engine Data
Sheet, LEKX4067, "Block and Transient Response".
Power Factor
The power factor is the ratio of apparent power to total power. The power factor is expressed as
a decimal. The power factor represents that portion of the current which is doing useful work.
The portion of current which is not doing useful work is absorbed in maintaining the magnetic
field in motors or other devices. This current is called the reactive load. This current does not
require engine power to be maintained.
In most applications, electric motors and transformers determine the power factor of the system.
Induction motors usually have a power factor of 0.8 lagging. Incandescent lighting is a resistive
load of about 1.0 power factor, or unity.
The power factor of a system may be determined by a power factor meter or by calculations.
Determine the power requirement in kW by multiplying the power factor by the kVA that is
supplied to the system. As the power factor goes up, the total current that is supplied to a
constant power demand will go down. A 100 kW load that is at 0.8 power factor will draw more
current than a 100 kW load that is at 0.9 power factor. A high-power factor will result in a full
engine load at less than the generator rated amperage. A lower power factor increases the
possibility of overloading the generator.
Note: The Caterpillar generators are rated at a power factor of 0.8 lagging unless the generator
is specified otherwise.
Excitation Systems
Refer to this Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Voltage Regulators" for information on
excitation systems.
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Standby units will not change the governor speed control or voltage level settings automatically.
The governor speed and voltage level must be preset for the proper operation of that unit.
Whenever the set is operated manually, ensure that the governor speed and the voltage level
settings are set correctly for automatic operation. Check all switches for the proper setting. The
Engine Control Switch should be in the AUTOMATIC position. Emergency Stop Switches should
be in RUN position.
Generator Options
Space Heaters
The generator can be equipped with space heaters. The space heater is installed for operation in
high humidity conditions. 120 V space heaters are available.
Instrumentation
Three different remote start/stop panels are available. Extensions for the wiring harness are
available to mount the panels. Contact your Cat dealer for more information.
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