Standby Generators Flashcards
What are three common fuels used by engine-driven generators?
- Gasoline
- Diesel
- Gaseous fuels (such as butane, methane, propane, and natural gas)
How long does it typically take to bring a standby generator online?
8 to 15 seconds
The voltage regulator in an engine-driven alternator controls the terminal voltage of the alternator by controlling the current in the _______ of the alternator
Field windings
Where is the control panel of the engine-driven generator located?
Alternator end of the engine-generator set
What are three instruments/controls you are likely to find on a control panel?
- Stop-start swtich
- Battery charge-rate ammeter
- Field circuit breaker
- Ammeters
- Voltmeters
- Running time meter
- Line circuit breaker
- Oil-pressure gauge
- Voltage-adjust rheostat
When two or more alternators are used for backup power, what additional controls must they have compared to a single generator?
Synchronizing controls
Where an engine-driven generator may be stationary for extended periods in low temperatures (making starting difficult), what devices may be included for optimal starting?
Temperature-controlled oil heaters
What is the sequence of events at the ATS when there is a power failure and when the power is restored?
- CB to normal supply first opens
- CB to emergency supply closes
- When power is restored, there is a delay for a short period to ensure voltage is definitely restored
- CB to the emergency supply opens
- CB to the normal supply closes
The selector switch on the ATS has Test, Auto, Engine Start and Stop Positions. What are each of these for?
Test - Test position simulates a power outage, starts up the emergency generator and transfers the load. The stop the engine and retransfer the load to the normal supply, turn the selector switch to the Auto position
Auto- Normal switch position
Engine Start - Generator starts and runs but does not take on the load
Stop - Generator set will stop and does not start automatically. Used when servicing generators
To ensure that the emergency generator cannot accidentally start, what is the safest precaution to take?
Disconnect the batteries
On a weekly test for an emergency generator, the unit should run for at least ______
30 Minutes
What is the function of a bypass switch used with an ATS?
To maintain supply to the emergency load while the ATS is out of service
Where will you obtain the directions for installing, testing and troubleshooting the ATS?
Manufacturers instruction manual
The transfer switch retransfers the load to the normal supply when power has been restored, but the engine of the generator continues to run for several minutes. Is this a malfunction?
No. This is normal and is to allow the engine time to cool down
What are three reasons why plant exercising should be done regularly?
- To recharge the battery by giving it a booster charge
- To replace evaporated fuel in the carburetor
- To keep all the engine parts lubricated
- To bring the engine up to operating temperature
- To purge all condensation from the crankcase
- To ensure that when the generator is needed it can be depended upon to start and operate properly
Which Code body determines the need for standby generators in buildings?
National Building Code (NBC)
What are two typical emergency loads in buildings?
- Fire pumps
- Emergency lighting
- Exhaust fans
- Elevators
Why must standby generator sets in hospitals not depend on public utilities for supplies of fuel and cooling water?
- These supplies may be cut off in a natural disaster
The CEC requires that standby equipment be tested at least once a ________
Month
What rules, if any, does the CEC make with regard to trouble signal devices for emergency backup generators if they malfunction?
Emergency systems must be equipped with audible and visual trouble-signal devices. CEC Rule 46-208
What section of the Code deals with emergency generators for hospitals?
Section 24
Engine-driven generators used in hospitals must have sufficient fuel to operate the engine under full load for at least how long?
24 Hours
When used in hospitals, the ATS must be acceptable to which two groups?
Electrical inspection and the supply authority
Why is the power supply authority interested in the ATS installation?
An incorrect installation could energize a “de-energized” utility line
A large ATS may be rated up to what current value?
4000A
Does the CEC make any stipulation about the manual operation of an ATS?
Yes. It says it must include means for safe manual operation.
