INSPECTION OF THE GENERATOR
Open all access doors of the generator set and make a thorough visual inspection
of the generator for loose or missing mounting hardware and damaged or missing
parts (look for broken or loose electrical and hose
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Figure - Diagram for checking phase sequence of alternators.
connections, for example,
and for loose bolts and cap screws). Also, check the fault indicator panel and
control cubicle for broken or missing bulbs and fuses.
WARNING While performing your visual inspection, look for service tags.
If service tags are present, do not attempt to start or run the generator.
Check the wiring diagrams in the instruction manual furnished with the generator
to see whether any wire is connected improperly. If you find faults, correct
them immediately. Be sure to check the levels of the following: 1. Crankcase
lubricant. 2. Radiator coolant. 3. Fuel. 4. Electrolyte in the batteries. After
donning the proper personnel protective equipment (chemical gloves, goggles,
and face shield), add to the actual level to bring it up to the required level,
if necessary.
On large generators you should check the area ventilation; the fan cover must
be opened and latched in that position. There must be no cover or obstructions
over the radiator section. The bypass shutters or doors may be closed to shorten
the warming-up period, and roof hatches and side louvers may be opened for additional
ventilation, if required.
DISTRIBUTION PANELBOARDS
Power from the generator set must be delivered to various connected loads
safely and efficiently. The relatively large cables connected to the load terminal
board of the generator, if sized properly, can conduct all the power the generator
can produce. This power has to get to the different connected load equipment
without overloading the conductors or overheating conductor insulations.
In this section, the makeup of panelboards, connections to them, and the installation
of the advanced-base type of portable panelboards are presented.
OVERCURRENT PROTECTION
If the load cables come into contact with each other and short-circuit the generator,
the generator windings could be damaged by excessive current unless the generator
windings and load cables are protected by a circuit breaker. The circuit breaker
"breaks" or interrupts the circuit anytime there is a short circuit
or overload condition in the load cables. One large load, consuming an amount
of power at or near the maximum power output of the generator, could theoretically
overload the generator in the event of a fault. In this case, one circuit breaker
could trip the circuit and protect both the generator and the load. But small-load
conductors connected directly to the larger generator load cables could likely
burn up without drawing enough current to cause the circuit breaker of the generator
set to open the circuit.
In the interest of safe operation of load circuit conductors and safety of area
personnel, you must use properly sized overcurrent devices (circuit breakers
or fuses).
DISTRIBUTION
The generator load cables are terminated at a type of distribution bus bar from
which one or more overcurrent protective devices are connected. Current through
each of the overcurrent devices is limited by the overcurrent rating or setting
of the device. In this way power from the generator may be safely distributed
through protected conductors to the various connected loads.
PANELBOARDS
A panelboard includes buses and automatic overcurrent protective devices placed
in a cabinet or cutout box and mounted in (flush) or against (surface) a wall
or partition. The panelboard is accessible only from the front. A panelboard
serves the purpose mentioned above for the distribution of electric power.
PHASE RELATIONSHIP
When you connect the generator load to the panelboard,
be careful to match the cable markings to the panelboard terminals. The same
phase relationship should be maintained throughout the wiring system from the
generator to the load. You may see terminals marked with numbers, such as L1,
L2, L3, and L0 or the letters and symbols A0, B0, C0, and N ). Wire in different
parts of the system may be marked with numbered, lettered, or colored tape.
(The color sequence is black, red, blue, and white.) Either way, the phase sequence
is the same. You may have to "ring out" (identify) unmarked cables
or conductors in the conduit before connecting them to the power source or load.
This identification
process can be accomplished in any one of several ways. You may use a bell and
battery, buzzer and battery, or ohmmeter, for example. Any of these devices
may be used to check for continuity through each conductor to ground (a conduit,
for example). After a conductor is identified, it is then marked.
PORTABLE POWER DISTRIBUTION
PANELBOARDS
Portable, weatherproof, power distribution panelboards are available, similar
to the one shown in
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Figure- Conductor identification.
figure . Load cables can be plugged into the receptacles along the front (fig.). With the cover raised , access to the circuit breakers and test jacks is provided. This panelboard is an advanced-base distribution center. A single-line Portable generators and panelboards can be placed into service quickly and with relatively little effort, compared to a permanent installation. Do not let expedience cause you to become careless, though, in placing the equipment and routing the load cables. Careful planning can result in a much safer and more diagram of the bus and circuit breakers is shown in efficient installation for both you and your fellow figure . Seabees.
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Figure- Portable power distribution panelboard.
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Figure .- Diagram of the portable power distribution panelboard. GENERATOR WATCH While standing a generator watch, you must be alert and respond quickly when you recognize a problem. You might not have control of every situation but at least you can secure the generator and prevent serious problems. Your primary purpose is to produce power in a safe and responsible manner. You may notice maintenance or repair actions that need to be rectified but do not require immediate attention and do not affect your watch Make note of these problems so that they will be taken care of by the repair crew. In addition, concentrate on doing your job properly, and your efforts will pay off.
A generator watch involves performing operator maintenance, maintaining the operator's log, operating a single generator, or operating paralleled generators.
OPERATOR MAINTENANCE
Operator maintenance generally includes whatever you have to do to start the
generator set and keep it running smoothly and safely. Equipment must be inspected
systematically so that defects can be discovered before a serious failure occurs.
Operator maintenance includes both prestart checks and operating checks.
Prestart Checks When starting the generator set and preparing to put it on line, you expect everything to go well. A systematic inspection before start-up will help ensure that the generator will operate properly. To do a prestart checkonthe generator, make the following inspections:
1. Ground cable.
See that the cable is intact and that the connections are tight.
2. Engine. Compare the actual lube oil level to the appropriate markings
(running level or stopped level) on the dipstick. The stopped level is, of course,
appropriate for prestart checks. Add oil as required. Check the engine for loose
connections; free action of all moving parts, such as the throttle linkage and
the emergency shut-off lever; and for leaking oil, fuel, or coolant.
3. Coolant system. Check that the coolant is at the required level. Add
coolant as required. Using an antifreeze solution tester, check that the antifreeze
content is sufficient for the existing ambient temperature. (Refer to the manufacturer's
manual for the type and quantity of antifreeze. Add antifreeze as required.)
Check the hoses and clamps for security.
4. Batteries. Check the batteries for the required electrolyte level;
add distilled water or, if distilled water is not available, clean tap water
as required to raise the electrolyte level to the slots in the filler wells.
5. Air intake system. Check the air intake system cleaner for excessive
dirt (see AIR CLEANER PANEL FILTER, fig. 3-15); remove and clean the air cleaner
panels as required. Check the air intake louvers and radiator grille for freedom
of motion, and ensure that they are not clogged.
6. Exhaust extension. Inspect the exhaust extension (where extended through
the roof or wall) for condition and tightness at the seams and at the point
of coupling near the housing.
7. Alternator and belts. Inspect the alternator for signs of overheating,
frayed or loose wiring, and corrosion. Inspect the alternator drive belts and
fan belts for proper tension and for cracks, fraying, and other signs of deterioration.
8. Breather. Inspect the breather extension for tightness, general condition,
and leakage. Check that the breather coupling is not restricting the flow of
air and that the breather exit port is clear.
9. Fuel system. Inspect the electric fuel transfer pumps for secureness,
tight fittings, signs of damage, corrosion, leaks, and loose electrical connections.
Look over the fuel filters and strainers for leaks and tight fittings. Drain
water and sediment from the
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Figure- Generator set, left rear, three-quarters view.
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Figure - Generator set,
right front, three-quarters view. primary filter and strainer and from the secondary
filter, using rags to catch the waste.
WARNING Check the day tank for leakage or signs of obvious damage.
Remove the cap from the day tank drain valve and open the valve. Drain the water
and sediment into a suitable container, close the valve, and replace the cap.
Always maintain constant metal-to-metal contact between the fuel tank filler
neck and the spout of the fuel supply. That will prevent the possibility of
sparking caused by static electricity. Inspect the fuel lines, valves, and fittings
for bent, leaky, or loose connections and signs of obvious damage. Inspect the
fuel tank for leakage or obvious damage.
Service the fuel tank as
follows:
Remove the fuel tank filler cap and fill the tank with the proper fuel. Replace
the filler cap and wipe up any spilled fuel. Remove the cap from the fuel tank
drain valve and open the valve. Permit water and sediment to drain into an approved
nonflammable container. Close the drain valve when clear fuel runs out of the
tank. Reinstall the cap on the valve. Remove the fuel filler cap and strainer,
as shown in figure 3-17. Check the cap vent valve for proper opening and closing.
Inspect the strainer for holes, breaks, and tears. Also, inspect the parts for
cracks, breaks, and other damage. Install the cap and strainer, as shown in
figure 3-17.
NOTE: The fuel tank
filler cap vent valve must be in the open position during operation of the generator
set. 10. Ether system. Inspect the ether system (used to aid cold-weather starting).
The ether cylinder is strapped to the day tank. Look for broken wires, loose
connections, corrosion, and any other signs of obvious damage. 11. Set controls
and instrumentation. Inspect meters and gauges at the control cubicle (fig.)
for bent pointers, broken glass, unreadable dial faces, and restricted movement
of pointers. Clean gauges and meter faces with a lint-free cloth.
Check for broken indicator lenses and for unreadable lettering. Set the panel
light to ON; the panel lights should light. Check all switches for positive
action; each switch should snap from one position to the next.
Operating Checks The operator can use his or her senses to detect many potential problems. The operator may smell overheated insulation, hear peculiar noises, see an indicating light signaling a fault, or feel unusual vibrations from the generator or engine. Operator maintenance requirements vary with different types of generators. General operator inspections and tasks are as follows:
1. Oil level. Frequently,
check the appropriate oil level. Add oil as needed to maintain the required
level. (Intervals between oil checks and changes will vary for abnormal operation
and severe conditions.)
2. Batteries. Check the electrolyte level and add water to maintain the
required level.
3. Exhaust and breather systems.
WARNING Components of both the exhaust and crankcase breather systems
(muffler, pipe, tube, and hose) become extremely hot during generator set operation.
Do not handle any of them while they are hot. Inspect the muffler for holes,
dents, signs of extreme corrosion, and metal deterioration. Also, check
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Figure- Fuel filler cap and strainer
for loose or broken clamps
and general secureness of the muffler. Check all pipes and ducts associated
with the exhaust system for holes, dents, signs of extreme corrosion, and metallic
deterioration. Also, check for loose and broken bolts. Check the exhaust ram
cap for signs of corrosion and freedom of movement. Check the breather tube
and associated hoses for loose clamps, holes in the hoses, and loose bolts.
4. Cooling system. Check all hoses for cracks, cuts, signs of deterioration,
and bulges (indicating the possibility of future rupture). Check all clamps
for tightness and signs of corrosion.
WARNING Do not attempt to remove the radiator cap until the radiator
has cooled to a point where there will be no built-up steam pressure. Failure
to observe this warning could result in second-or third-degree burns.
OPERATOR'S LOG
The operator's log (also called the station log) is a complete daily record
of the operating hours and conditions of the generator set. The log must be
kept clean and neat. Any corrections or changes to entries for a watch must
be made by the person who signs the log for that watch. The log serves as a
basis for determining when a particular piece of electrical equipment is ready
for inspection and maintenance. Current and previous logs can be compared to
spot gradual changes in equipment condition. These changes might not otherwise
be detected in day-to-day operation.
Defects discovered during operation of the unit should be noted for future correction;
such correction to be made as soon as operation of the generator set has ceased.
Making accurate periodic recordings is particularly important. The intervals
of these recordings will be based on local operating conditions.
The form used for log entries varies with the views of the supervisory personnel
in different plants, and there is no standard form to be followed by all stations.
Regardless of form, any log must describe the hourly performance not only of
the generators but also of the numerous indicating and controlling devices.
Figure shows one type of log that may be kept on the generator units of a power
plant. This is only a
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Figure- Typical generating station operator's log.
suggested form, of course, and there may be many other forms at your generating station to keep records on.
OPERATING PROCEDURES
FOR SINGLE GENERATOR SETS
The following operating procedures are general procedures for operating a single
generator unit. Some procedures will vary with different types of generators.
Study carefully the recommendations in the manufacturer's manual for the generator
you are to operate. Learn about the capabilities and limitations of your machine(
s). In the event of a problem, you will know what action is required to lessen
the effects of the problem. You or your senior should make a checklist of operating
procedures from the manual and post it near the generator.
The steps below will cover starting and operating a typical diesel-driven generator
set. (This set uses a dc-powered motor for starting the diesel engine.) These
steps will also cover applying an electrical load.
Starting the Generator Set Proceed as follows to start the typical generator
set:
WARNING Do not operate the generator set unless it has been properly
grounded. Electrical faults (such as leakage paths) in the generator set, feeder
lines, or load equipment can cause injury or death by electrocution. Before
operating the set for the first time, ensure that service procedures were performed
upon its receipt according to the manufacturer's literature. See also that
all
preventive maintenance checks have been performed. The voltage change board
must be adjusted for the required voltage
1. Open the CONTROL CUBICLE
and AIR INTAKE DOORS. Close the HOUSING PANEL (ACCESS) DOORS,
2. Set the FUEL TRANSFER VALVE to the desired source of fuel, preferably the
auxiliary tank, if it is connected. NOTE: Refer to figure for the CONTROL CUBICLE,
FAULT INDICATOR PANEL, DC CONTROL CIRCUIT BREAKER, and ENGINE MANUAL SPEED CONTROL.
Notice that the control cubicle is divided into an engine section and a generator
section.
3. Set the PARALLEL OPERATION-SINGLE UNIT OPERATION select switch (located in
the GENERATOR section of the CONTROL CUBICLE) to SINGLE UNIT OPERATION.
4. Set the VOLTAGE ADJUST-INCREASE control to the lower half of the adjustment
range.
5. Depress the DC CONTROL CIRCUIT BREAKER (located to the lower right of the
CONTROL CUBICLE) to ON.
6. Set the START-STOP-RUN switch (located in the ENGINE section of the CONTROL
CUBICLE) to RUN.
7. Set and hold the TEST or RESET switch (on the FAULT INDICATOR PANEL) in the
UP position. Each fault indicator light should be on Check and replace defective
lamps or fuses.
8. Allow the TEST or RESET switch to return to the mid-position. Each fault
indicator light, with the exception of the LOW OIL PRESSURE light, should go
out. When the engine has started, the LOW OIL PRESSURE light should also go
out. NOTE: If the NO FUEL light stays lit, refill the set or auxiliary tank.
Position the BATTLE SHORT switch (CONTROL CUBICLE) to ON (the fuel pump will
run to fill the day tank). Set the TEST or RESET switch to the UP position and
then release it; the NO FUEL light should go out when the switch handle is released.
9. Set the CKT BRK CLOSE-OPEN switch (CONTROL CUBICLE) to OPEN.
10. Push and release the AIR CLEANER CONDITION indicator, BATTLE SHORT indicator,
and CKTBRK indicator. Each indicator light should go on as the indicator is
pushed and go out when the indicator is released. a. If the AIR CLEANER CONDITION
indicator remains lit, the air cleaner must be serviced. b. If the CKT BRK indicator
remains on after you set the CKT BRK switch to OPEN, you cannot continue the
procedure. The circuit breaker must function properly. The generator cannot
be used until the problem is corrected.
11. Depress the lock button on the ENGINE
MANUAL SPEED CONTROL (located below the DC CONTROL CIRCUIT BREAKER), and set
the control.
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Figure.- Control cubicle, controls, and indicators.
CAUTION Do not crank
the engine in excess of 15 seconds at a time. Allow the starter to cool a minimum
of 3 minutes between cranking.
WARNING Operation of this equipment presents a noise hazard to personnel
in the area. The noise level exceeds the allowable limits for unprotected personnel.
Wear earmuffs or earplugs.
12. Set and hold the START-STOP-RUN switch to the START position until the engine
starts. As the engine starts, observe the following:
a. The OIL PRESSURE gauge indicates at least 25 psig.
b. The VOLTS AC meter indicates the presence of voltage.
c. The LOW OIL PRESSURE indicator light on the FAULT INDICATOR PANEL goes out.
13. Release the START-STOP-RUN switch. Position the switch to RUN.
Operating the Generator Set
The procedures for operating a single generator set (single unit) are as follows:
1. Ensure that the PARALLEL OPERATION-SINGLE UNIT OPERATION switch is set to
SINGLE UNIT OPERATION.
2. Position the AMPS-VOLTS selector switch to the required position. Rotate
the VOLTAGE ADJUST control to obtain the required voltage. Read the voltage
from the VOLTS AC meter.
3. Depress the locking button, and slide the ENGINE MANUAL SPEED CONTROL in
or out to obtain the approximate rated frequency; rotate the vernier knob (the
knob on the control) clockwise or counterclockwise to obtain the rated frequency.
NOTE: If necessary, the load may be applied immediately.
4. Operate the engine for at least 5 minutes to warm it up.
5. Apply the load by holding the CKT BRK switch (on the CONTROL CUBICLE) to
CLOSE until the CKT BRK indicator lights go out. Then release the switch.
6. Observe the readings from the VOLTS AC meter and the HERTZ (FREQUENCY) meter.
The voltage readings should be 120/ 208 to 240/ 416 volts ac (depending on the
positions of the AMPS-VOLTS select switch and the voltage change board). Let's
say, for example, that you positioned the voltage change board for 120/ 208
volts before you started the generator set. When you position the AMPS-VOLTS
selector switch to L2-L0 VOLTS/ L2 AMPS while the generator is operating, the
VOLTS AC meter should indicate 120 volts. The PERCENT RATED CURRENT meter will
indicate the percent rated current (not more than 100 percent) between generator
line 2 and neutral. The HERTZ (FREQUENCY) meter should indicate 50 or 60 hertz.
The KILOWATTS meter should indicate no more than 100 percent with the HERTZ
(FREQUENCY) meter showing 60 hertz. Readjust the voltage and frequency, if necessary.
7. Observe the KILOWATTS meter. If the meter indicates that more than the rated
kilowatts are being consumed, reduce the load.
8. Rotate the AMPS-VOLTS selector switch to each phase position and monitor
the PERCENT RATED CURRENT meter. If more than the rated load is indicated for
any phase position, reduce or reapportion the load.
9. Periodically (not less than once per hour), monitor the engine and generator
indicators to ensure their continued operation.
10. Perform any "during operation" preventive checks according to
your checklist. When in operation, the generator set should be monitored periodically
(at least once an hour) for signs indicating possible future malfunctions.
After
the warmup, the lubricating oil pressure should remain virtually constant.
Check and record the level of lubricating oil while the engine is running normally.
If any significant changes occur in the oil pressure, notify the maintenance
personnel. Check and record the coolant temperature of the normally running
engine. Notify maintenance personnel if the coolant temperature changes significantly.
Learn the sounds of a normally running generator set so that any unusual sounds
indicating the possible start of a malfunction may be detected early enough
to avoid major damage.
Stop the operation immediately if a deficiency that woulddamage the equipment
is noted during operation.
OPERATING PROCEDURES
FOR PARALLELING GENERATORS
This section will include procedures for paralleling generators, removing a
set from parallel operations, and stopping generator set operation.
NOTE: These procedures assume that one generator set is on line (operating
and connected to the distribution feeder lines through the switchgear). The
set that is to be paralleled is designated the incoming set).
CAUTION When you are operating generator sets in parallel, they must
have the same output voltage, frequency, phase relation, and phase sequence
before they can be connected to a common distribution bus. Severe damage may
occur to the generator sets if these requirements are not met.
Adjusting the engine speed of the incoming set while observing the output frequency
and the
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Figure- Parallel operation connection diagram.
SYNCHRONIZING LIGHTS
will bring the phase and frequency into exact agreement. As the phase and frequency
approach the same value, the SYNCHRONIZING LIGHTS will gradually turn on and
off. When the blinking slows to a rate of once per second or slower, close the
main circuit breaker of the incoming set while the SYNCHRONIZING LIGHTS are
at a point of being dark. The phase sequence relates to the order in which the
generator windings are connected. If the phase sequence is not correct, the
SYNCHRONIZING LIGHTS will not blink on and off together. When the incoming set
is first connected to the load through the appropriate switchgear . you should
observe one of four occurrences. When the phase sequence, voltage, frequency,
phase, and engine performance are the same, the changeover will be smooth with
only the slightest hesitation in engine speed; if each output is slightly out
of phase, one of the engines will shudder at the point of changeover; if the
phase sequence or voltage levels are incorrect, the reverse power relay will
trip on one of the generator sets and open its main circuit breaker contactors;
if the incoming generator set loses speed significantly or almost stalls, the
incoming engine may be defective.
CAUTION Should either generator set lose speed, buck, or shudder when
the incoming set is connected to the distribution feeder lines, immediately
flip the CKT BRK switch of the incoming set to open, and then recheck the paralleling
set-up procedures.
Refer to figures set up the generator sets for parallel operation.
WARNING When performing step 1, make certain that the incoming set is
shut down and that there are no voltages at the switchgear terminals being connected
to the incoming set. Do not take anybody's word for it! Check it out for yourself!
Dangerous and possibly deadly voltages could be present. Take extreme care not
to cross the LO (neutral) with any of the other phases (L1, L2, or L3).
Paralleling Procedures
1. Connect the incoming set.
2. Make certain that the voltage change board (reconnection board) of the incoming
generator is set up for the same output voltage as the on-line generator.
3. Set CKT BRK switch on the incoming set to OPEN. When the incoming set circuit
breaker is open (CKT BRK indicator light will be out), operate the load switchgear
so that the on-line output voltage is present at the voltage change board of
the incoming set.
4. Set the PARALLEL OPERATION-SINGLE UNIT operation switch on both sets to PARALLEL
OPERATION.
5. Start the incoming set. The on-line set should be in operation already.
6. After a 5-minute warmup, try the VOLTAGE ADJUST control on the incoming set
until the output voltages of both sets are equal.
CAUTION If the synchronizing lights do not blink on and off in unison,
the phase sequence is incorrect. Shut down the incoming set and recheck the
cabling to and from the incoming set.
7. On the incoming set, position the ENGINE MANUAL SPEED CONTROL until the SYNCHRONIZING
LIGHTS blink on and off as slowly as possible.
8. With one hand on the CKT BRK switch, adjust the ENGINE MANUAL SPEED CONTROL
vernier knob until the SYNCHRONIZING LIGHTS dim gradually from full on to full
off as slowly as possible. Just as the SYNCHRONIZING LIGHTS dim to out, set
and hold the CKT BRK switch to close. When the CKT BRK indicator light comes
on, release the switch.
9. On both sets, check that the readings of the PERCENT RATED CURRENT meters
and KILOWATTS meters are well within 20 percent of each other. If not, increase
the engine power of the set with the lower readings (by adjusting the ENGINE
MANUAL SPEED CONTROL to increase the speed) until the readings are about equal.
NOTE: The division of the kilowatt load is also dependent on the frequency
droop of the two sets and must be adjusted at the next higher level of maintenance.
If the current does not divide as described above, adjust the reactive current-sharing
control located at the right side of the special relay box for equal reading
on both percent rated current meters.
10. On the incoming set, readjust the voltage and frequency of the output until
it is equal to the output of the on-line set.
Removing a Generator Set from Parallel Operation while following the procedure
for removing a generator set from parallel operation.
CAUTION Before removing
the generator set( s) from parallel operation, make sure the load does not exceed
the full-load rating of the generator set( s) remaining on the line.
1. On the outgoing set, position and hold the CKT BRK switch to OPEN until the
CKT BRK indicator light goes out. Release the switch.
2. On the outgoing set, allow the engine to operate with no load for about 5
minutes.
3. On the outgoing set, pull the DC CONTROL CIRCUIT BREAKER to OFF.
4. On the outgoing set, set the START-STOP-RUN switch to STOP.
WARNING Make certain the outgoing set is shut down and there are no voltages
at the switchgear terminals connected to the outgoing set. Do not take anybody's
word for it! Check it out for yourself! 5. Disconnect the cables going from
the outgoing set to the load switchgear.
Stopping Generator Set
Operation as you study this section.
1. Set the CKT BRK switch to OPEN until the CKT BRK indicator light goes out,
then release the CKT BRK switch.
2. Allow the engine to cool down by operating at no load for 5 minutes.
3. Set the START-STOP-RUN switch to STOP.
4. Close all generator doors.
MAINTENANCE
There are actually three major categories (or levels) of maintenance. The three
categories are (1) depot, (2) intermediate, and (3) organizational. In depot
or intermediate maintenance, equipment is restored to like-new condition or
subjected to some degree to detailed repairs. Under the organizational category,
generator maintenance may consist of inspection, testing, adjustment, and so
forth, and then perhaps replacement of, rather than repair of, a faulty component.
Two types of organizational maintenance are (1) operator and (2) preventive.
Each of the two types should complement the other. Defects discovered during
operation of the unit will be noted for future correction either by the operator
or by maintenance personnel, as appropriate. The purpose of preventive maintenance
is to keep the machinery running trouble-free. The operator will likely have
fewer problems if the preventive maintenance work is done well. In our previous
discussion we have seen that operator maintenance includes many of the tasks
you do before, during, and after you operate the generator set to produce power.
As a member of a unit or organization large enough to have a maintenance crew, you may serve as a member of the crew. As a crew member, you will perform organizational preventive maintenance functions on the generator set periodically according to the manufacture's specifications or to service maintenance manuals. To prevent buildup of contaminants that may cause damage to the operating components or systems of the generator set, you should clean the set periodically. Cleaning operations must be performed only on generator sets that are not operating, that are connected to a parallel bus, or that are connected in a standby mode. To clean the generator set, heed the warnings and cautions given, and proceed as follows:
WARNING Compressed
air used for cleaning can create airborne particles that may enter the eyes.
Pressure shall not exceed 30 psig (206 kPa). Wearing of goggles is required.
CAUTION Exercise care to prevent dry-cleaning solvent from coming into
contact with electrical components. Painted metal surfaces should be wiped with
a clean lint-free cloth moistened with cleaning solvent (P-D-680, type II).
Hard deposits may be scrubbed off with a bristle brush that has been dipped
in solvent. Dry the surfaces with a clean lint-free cloth.
WARNING Dry-cleaning solvent, P-D-680, type II, is flammable and moderately
toxic to the skin and eyes. Respiratory and eye protection are required.
Remove any dust, dirt, or sand from inside the generator set with a damp, lint-free
cloth. Disconnect the battery cables (negative cable first) and remove any corrosion
from the battery terminals, cables, and hold-down with a wire brush. Clean the
battery filler cap vent holes.
Clean the instrument faces with a clean, lint-free cloth.
Reference :
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http://www.tpub.com/engineering.htm
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