7. GENERATING SET
CONTROL SYSTEMS
To control and monitor the generating set, an
electronic control system has been used. Depending
on the requirements of the set, one of several
different standard control systems may be fitted.
These include ME 30, ME 40 model Manual Control
Systems, P 500 Automatic Control Systems (with
AMF), P300 Automatic Control System (with AMF),
P 2010 Auto start Control System and P 2020
Automatic Control System (with AMF). Control
panel provides a means of starting and stopping the
generating set, monitoring its operation and output
and automatically shutting down the set in the event
of a critical condition arising such as low oil pressure
or high engine temperature.
7.1 Starting with ME 30 or ME 40
Manual Control Panel
Check the precautions and controls before starting
up the generating set
To start the generating set, turn the key switch
to the hand position, which will power up the
unit (DSE 701 module)
Pressing start button (1) will energise the Fuel
solenoid, then the starter motor. The button
should be pressed for the duration of the crank
period.
When the engine fires, the starter motor is
disengaged and locked out at 20 Hz measured
from the alternator output.
After the starter motor has disengaged, safety on
timer is activated (which is fixed at 12 seconds),
allowing oil pressure, high engine temperature
and charge fail to stabilise without triggering the
fault.
If the generator has not started when the start
button has been released or generator fails once
it is running, the key switch must be turned to
stop (0) and then back to hand position before
another start cn be invoked.
Check the alternator output voltage and frequency
and engine oil pressure, engine temperature.
The gen set should run 2-3 minute no load
When the engine warm after alternator output
circuit breaker sholud be ON position.
Figure 7.1
Model DSE 701 module
22
4.16.2 Alternator Storage:
When an alternator
is in storage, moisture tends to condense in the
windings. To minimize condensation, store the
generating set in a dry storage area. If possible
use space heaters to keep the windings dry.
After removing the generating set from storage,
perform an insulation Check as discussed in 4.12.8.
4.16.3 Battery Storage:
While the battery is
stored, it should receive a refreshing charge every
8 weeks up to a fully charged condition.
A good maintenance program is the key to long
generating set life. The recommended maintenance
program is provided on the Periodic Maintenance
Chart. This chart is given with all generating sets.
Maintenance and service should only be carried
out by qualified technicians. The maintenance and
service which are done must be recorded to the
Maintenance Record Form. In General, the
generating set should be kept clean. Do not permit
liquids such as fuel or oil film to accumulate on
any internal or external surfaces. Wipe down
surfaces using an aqueous industrial cleaner.
5. GENERATING SET
MAINTENANCE
Make a general visual inspection on the engine
and alternator. Check if there is any breakage,
crack, indentation, leakage or looseness. Never
operate the generating set before removing any
fault, if any.
Take out foreign materials such as keys, tools,
cleaning wool, papers etc. on the engine and the
alternator.
Check the fuel level in the day tank. Refill with
fuel if it is low.
Check the engine oil level on the dip stick. Refill
with an appropriate oil if it is low. Oil level
normally must be close to the maximum level
line.
Look at the water level by opeing the radiator
tap. If it is inadequate add more water. Water
level must be 30 mm. lover than the water filling
neck.
Engine cooling water must include antifreeze
according to the coolest weather conditions in
the area. A mixture of 50% antifreeze and 50%
water provides a good protection in all area.
Inspect the radiator air outlet hood, open if
clogged and clear away all obstructions in front
of the air outlet.
Check the air filter gauge. Clean or replace the
air filter, if necessary.
Keep the inlet opening open.
Make sure that the generating set can easily take
air from te environment.
6. GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
AND CONTROLS WHICH MUST
BE DONE BEFORE STARTING
UP THE GENERATING SET
Check the battery connection cables. Take care
to tighten the loosened battery terminals with
spanner and, cover with special substance and
keep clean in order to avoid oxidation.
Open the battery caps and check the liquid level
in the cells. Add distilled water, if necessary, so
as to be 1 cm higher than the separation. Never
fill the cells with tap water, acid water or acid.
Check if the circuit breaker outlet switch is in
OFF position.
Make sure that the emergency stop button is not
pressed.