Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Generator Set Rating


Power rating definitions for generator sets are based on typical load factor, hours of use per year, peak demand and application use. Normally genset ratings are listed.

- Standby Rating
  Typical usage 200 hours per year with varying loads. Average variable load factor is 70% of Standby rating. No overload is available. Not for maintained utility paralleling applications.

- Prime Rating
  Unlimited hours of usage with varying loads. Average variable load factor is 70% of the Prime power rating. 10% overload limited to 1 in 12 hours but not to exceed 25 hours per year. The 10% overload is available in accordance with ISO 3046.

- Continuous Rating
  Unlimited hours of usage. Nonvarying load factor is 70% to 100% of the published Continuous Power.
Typical peak demand is 100% of continuous rating for 100% of operating hours.

Caterpillar and Cummins Power Generation are explanations the ratings almost the same.

Otherwise Cummins Power Generation recommend that a generator set be operated at a minimum of 30% of its nameplate rating. As my experience for many generator that exercise no load or lightly loaded every week that may have lube oil leak from the cylinder and said to "Slobber" This is not conducive to long life and good performance.

Adapted from - Application Manual – Liquid Cooled Generator Sets (Cummins Power Generation), Electric Power Applications, Engine & Generator Sizing (Caterpillar)

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