Generators: Standby and Co-generation Copyright 2003 Francis J.

. Martino Due to the high impedance and low short-circuit capacity characteristics of generators, problems do indeed occur. Here are some simple solutions to problems that occur after the application is in place: Problem #1: A facility co-generation system has a generator that has the capacity to run a large motor but does not have the capacity to start that motor. Solution: Use a reduced voltage starter that is modified to act as an automatic transfer switch. The starter will start the motor on utility power and, once the motor is up to speed, transfer the motor to generator power. Problem 2: THD generated by a six pulse VFD does not comply with IEEE Std 519 Table 10.3 Problem 3: A six pulse VFD operates well on utility power but, when operating on generator power, is found to resonate with the facility lighting system. Solution to Problems 2 and 3: Attenuate the harmonic currents that are generated by the VFD by adding a line reactor and a 5th and 7th passive harmonic filter to the input of the drive. Also add a load reactor to the drive output. Problem #4: A large UPS and a generator are found to be incompatible. The converter capacitors of the UPS will draw current with a high leading phase angle upon application of generator power. As a result, the iron core of the generator regulator becomes saturated and the generator output then rises without regulation. The generator will shut down on overvoltage trip. Solution: Add a contactor that will remove the UPS capacitors when the generator is starting. Problem #5: It is required that a reduced voltage start be utilized that limits current inrush to 150% of full load motor current. A solid-state reduced voltage starter can indeed be adjusted for 150% maximum inrush current. However, it is a rare application in which a motor will start on reduced voltage with less than 300% full load amps. Solution: The combination of reduced voltage and reduced frequency that is available with a variable frequency drive will allow the motor to develop full starting torque with a limit of 150% of full load amps. The disadvantage: You may have created Problem #6.

Problem #6: To start a large motor on generator power, a VFD is used to soft-start a motor and then run the motor continuously at full speed. The harmonic generation of the VFD will add a nominal 5% current to the generator load. In addition, EMI from the VFD will also be introduced into the generator system and spread to other parts of the facility. Solution: Use a VFD with a closed-transition by-pass contactor. The contactor will allow the motor to run directly off the generator when the motor achieves full speed. Thus, harmonic and EMI generation is eliminated during the run cycle. Both motor and generator will run cooler and more efficiently.