Diesel generators have become conventional standby power alternatives in many business premises. With an output of up to 3000 KW or more, some enterprises install only one big generator. These generators serve to supply power in case there is an outage. However, you can increase the capacity of the power provided by installing two or more parallel generators. You can acquire synchronous generators at https://www.ablesales.com.au/industrial-diesel-generators/synchronous-generators/
The parallel connection of generators also eases maintenance, redundancy as well as control in management. To effectively achieve this, you connect two generators physically then synchronize their outputs.
Understanding a parallel generator
A parallel generator is a term that refers to two or more generators combined in parallel with the aim of as much power as that of a bigger generator. The advantage of using a parallel generator over one big one is that the smaller ones are movable, unlike the big generator. You cannot easily transport a big generator the same way you can with a smaller one.
Also, there is a difference in the cost between a smaller and a bigger generator. Buying two smaller generators is cheaper than buying one big generator.
The possibility of running two generators in parallel
To run generators in parallel refers to the act of connecting two generators at a time. The generators are usually of the same size and brand. The connection is always aimed at doubling the power.
It is possible to do this kind of connection. The connection helps to boost the number of watts and increase power supply. This connection is essential for those who use appliances that consume large amounts of power, such as air conditioners.
The purpose of connecting generators in parallel
More often, one generator is remarkably enough to supply power to run the necessities in your house for some time.
With the advancement in technology, there has been an innovation of new machines and appliances. Most of these innovations use more power supply. The inverter generators have ended up not in a position to supply enough power. This has necessitated the use of more than one generator in parallel to provide the required amount of power.
Understanding Load Sharing of a Generator
When many generators are set up in a parallel system, there is a proportional division of kVAR and kW total load. This is what is referred to as load sharing. It helps significantly in avoiding stability problems. It is also crucial in avoiding overloading problems on the generator set systems.
In a parallel setting, every generator determines the proportional share of the power required by the system. The speed governor of the engine of every generator does the work of controlling.
To parallel or not to parallel generators of different brands and size
There is no limitation to what generators you can parallel. This is as long as the frequency and voltage of the generators at the connection point is the same. However, for compatibility of any two or more generators, they must have any of the following:
- The alternators must be compatible
- The engines must be compatible
- They should have compatible interfaces for the control and monitoring systems
- They should have compatible control systems for loading sharing
It is critical to ensure that generators running in parallel do not have any cases of overloading or underloading. The generators connected should have a way of equally sharing the load. You can share any two or more generators by use of either isochronous or droop load sharing.
With droop load sharing, you can parallel generators that are of the same brand or size. Droop loading is also seen as the simplest method. The only disadvantage with this method is that it produces a wider variety of voltage and frequency levels.
Isochronous produces equal load sharing. For this method, generators in use need to have standard control systems for proper load sharing.
Improving compatibility before choosing to parallel to non-inverter generators
- Monitor the Load Sharing
Adjust the outputs of the generators o be equal. You also need to monitor the speed or bus voltage on both generators carefully. This allows you to balance the production if possible. It will also ensure that no generator works more than the other.
- Check the Compatibility of Alternators
Ensure that the frequencies of the generators are matching. A mismatch may lead to the motoring effect. The motoring effect may overload the distribution system once you parallel them. The alternator compatibility is always recorded on the company’s website or in the instruction manual.
- Ensure the Compatibility of Engines
It is advisable to have generators that have almost the same engine capacity. Alternatively, they should have the ability to adjust the capacity to equal kilowatt value. This compatibility helps to improve efficiency significantly.
- Ensure You Get the Right Inverter Cable
Paralleling non-inverter generators from different manufacturers requires adapter cables. You can get companion kits from the manufacturers. Alternatively, you can consider buying your adapters for that purpose.
Is there any harm in paralleling computers?
Paralleling generators that are designed to be paralleled cannot destroy them. Many of the generators in the market today are designed in such a manner to allow paralleling. All you need to do is to ensure that you keenly follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. You should also ensure that you use the right cables. The other key thing to ensure is that the generators are compatible.
Why parallel generators are better than one large generator
One of the common reasons for not buying one larger generator is because it may not produce the required power supply. If the generator has an inverter, the owner would rather buy a second inverter generator, then parallel the two.
Another critical reason why you may opt for running generators in parallel is that they are quieter compared to large-sized ones. The paralleled generators are also more fuel-efficient.
Another reason is that paralleled generators give you backup. In case one of the generators fails, the other could continue running. This is not the case when you are just using a large size generator.
In conclusion, many people prefer running generators in parallel to increase power supply. The only main caution when using paralleled generators is that you must ensure they are compatible. You can purchase your compatible generators at https://www.ablesales.com.au/industrial-diesel-generators/synchronous-generators/.
