Control Panels

Our generators are equipped with one of the following Control Panels

A) SYNCHRONIZING PANEL

Operating Method:

The panel will operate on an automatic mains failure system, so that when the main supply is interrupted on one or all phases (after an adjustable delay period) the generator sets will start-up together. After an initial warm-up period (adjustable) the generators will synchronize with each other by means of motorized circuit breakers or contactors onto a common buss bar. Next, the motorized change-over switch will be closed and the load connected to the main distribution box.

The load share units continuously monitor the load and during low demand periods one or two generators will be shut down to save on fuel consumption. As demand rises again the second and third generators will be restarted, synchronized and reconnected to load. When the AMF control unit detects that the main supply has been restored an adjustable observation period is activated before the main supply is reconnected. A cool down period will then follow, after which the generator sets will be shut down.

The AMF Panel includes a Deep Sea 5510 Controller (Synchronizing Unit):

General characteristics

  • 3-phase mains-generator voltage control
  • 3-phase current control
  • 12 digital inputs
  • 3 Analog inputs for pressure, temperature and fuel level monitoring
  • Retentive energy meters
  • RS-232 port for setup, remote control and GSM modem (optional)
  • Context sensitive on-line help prompts
  • Choice of text language
  • Icon detail and alarm viewing
  • Event log for alarms, status and events
  • Operating data recording

Viewable measurements

  • Battery voltage
  • Phase, line and system mains voltage values
  • Phase, line and system generator voltage values
  • Phase current
  • Active, reactive and apparent power values
  • Active-reactive energy meters
  • Power factor per phase
  • Mains and generator frequency
  • Engine speed (rpm)
  • Oil pressure
  • Water temperature
  • Fuel level
  • Engine running hour counter
  • Hours remaining before next maintenance
  • Total number of starting attempts
  • Percentage of successful starting attempts

B) AUTOMATIC MAINS FAILURE PANEL

Operating Method:

The panel operates on an automatic mains failure system, meaning that when the main supply is interrupted on one or all phases (after an adjustable delay period) the Generating Set will start. After a warm up period (adjustable) the generator contactor will be activated. When the control unit detects that the main supply has been restored an adjustable observation period is activated before the main supply is reconnected. A Cool down period will then follow, after which the Generator Set will be shut down.

Protection via RGAM Controller:

  • Over and under speed
  • Phase failure
  • Low oil pressure
  • High engine temperature
  • Engine stop failure
  • Over/under voltage
  • Auto, Manual and Off Functions
  • Run-time meter
  • Cool down timer
  • Range of alarm functions
  • A manual is available for much more features on the Controller
  • RS-232 port for setup, remote control and GSM modem (optional)
  • Auto test function

Viewable measurements:

  • Battery voltage
  • Phase and mains voltage values
  • Phase and generator voltage values
  • Phase current
  • Generator frequency
  • Engine running hour counter

C) BASELOAD (KEYSTART) PANEL

Operating Method:

The main function of this panel is to protect the engine and alternator. The unit will be Key-started. A Cool down period will form part of the panel construction on all turbo models.

Protection via Deep Sea 5310/7310 Controller:

  • Low oil pressure
  • High engine temperature
  • Alarm display
  • Alternator overload
  • Cool down timer on all turbo models
  • Over speed protection on all turbo models
  • Battery charge failure
  • Phase, line and system voltage values
  • Phase current values
  • Phase and total active, reactive and apparent power values
  • Active and reactive energy
  • Phase power factor
  • Phase angle of the harmonic fundamental
  • Frequency value of the monitoring voltage
  • Maximum and minimum instant readings of phase voltages and current as well as total active power.
  • Maximum readings of current and total active power sampled in relation to programmed periods (adjustable)
  • High accuracy true RMS indications
  • Digital LED display
  • 9 digit pre-settable hour counter as well as total counter
  • Plug-in terminal connections

D) NO BREAK RETURN

As soon as Eskom power returns a delay period will be allowed to monitor the main supply for stability before the controller synchronizes with Eskom and down-ramps the generators. This is termed a `No Break Return` – no interruptions or lost production during switch-over to Eskom.