Call Us at
844-ASK-GNRC
Find a Distributor
Find Service
Careers
Contact Us
Select your region
Europe
Africa
Latin America
Asia
Middle East
Oceania
Search for:
Generac Industrial Power
Menu
Search
Main navigation
Skip to content
Hide Nav
All About
All About
Battery Energy Storage
Generac Industrial Power
HVO
Hydrogen
Industrial Strength
Energy Management
Configured vs Standard
Generator Paralleling
Natural Gas Fuel
Natural Gas Reliability
Natural Gas Performance
Natural Gas Resources
Diesel Fuel
BI-FUEL™
Selecting the Best Fuel Option
Solutions By Industry
Solutions By Industry
Data Centers
Healthcare
Senior Living Solutions
Emergency Power Plan Form
Municipal
Telecommunications
Education
Manufacturing
Small Business
Government
Professional Resources
Professional Resources
Generator Specifying, Sizing and Comparison Tools
Generac City
Generac BIM Documents
Emissions Unit Converter
Heat Rate Calculator
Power Design Pro
Total Cost of Ownership Calculator
Information Resources
Case Studies
Video Gallery
News & Whitepapers
Industry News
PowerConnect Newsletter
Whitepapers
Continuing Education
Power Engineer Symposium
Professional Development Seminar Series (PDSS)
Product Documents
Brochures
Spec Sheets
Products
Products
Battery Energy Storage
SBE500 Stationary Battery Energy Storage
SBE1000 Stationary Battery Energy Storage
Diesel Generators
Configured
10kW - 30kW
35kW - 50kW
60kW - 80kW
100kW - 175kW
200kW - 250kW
275kW - 300kW
350kW - 600kW
750kW - 800kW
900kW - 1000kW
1250kW +
All Products…
Standard
All Products…
Transfer Switches and Controllers
Power Zone Controllers
G-Panel Controller
Specification Text
TX Series Transfer Switches
PSTS Transfer Switches
Gaseous Generators
Configured
< 35kW
35kW - 50kW
50kW - 70kW
70kW - 100kW
100kW - 150kW
150kW - 300kW
350kW - 450kW
500kW
625kW - 750kW
1000kW
All Products…
Standard
All Products…
BI-FUEL™ Generators
Configured
All Products…
Aftermarket Parts and Service
Webinars
Webinars
Select your region
Region navigation
Europe
Africa
Latin America
Asia
Middle East
Oceania
Search for:
Power Connect Newsletter
Share This Article
Cold Climate Considerations for Generator Sets
12/15/2020 12:00:00 AM
BY CLIFFORD POWER
A Registered Dealer for Generac Power Systems
INTRODUCTION
When emergency/standby generator systems are to be installed in an area that will experience cold temperatures, it is important to take into account several factors that can effect operation in cold climates.
This white paper discusses factors encountered for generator systems operating in cold temperatures and recommends to the system designed certain accessories that should be included in their specification.
MAIN AREAS OF A GENERATOR SYSTEM EFFECTED BY COLD TEMPERATURES:
An operator has to consider operationally how the cold effects the generator system when stationary and during operation. Theprincipal issue for a stationary set is how the cold will prevent normal starting of the generator system. Once the set is running the operator has to consider what accessories or functions could be effected by the cold to cause any of the generator set equipment to shutdown.
COMPONENTS OF GENERATOR SYSTEM WHERE COLD TEMPERATURES WILL IMPEDE STARTING:
The components of a generator system that have to be maintained at a minimum temperature or be specified for cold temperatures to ensure starting in cold ambients are:
Engine coolant mixture
A stationary generator set system within a few hours of shutdown will be at the same ambient temperature as its surroundings. The operator should consult with the dealer for recommended coolant mixture.
Engine coolant temperature
The most common method to maintain coolant at a optimum level for easy starting, above 60o F (16o C), is the fitting of block heaters. Block heaters are fitted to generator systems installed outside and inside.
Block heaters are considered a normal accessory for standby generators. The size is dependent on the ambient conditions for the specific installation site. A rule of thumb is that typical block heater will require 1 to 2 hours to bring the engine up to temperature for rapid starting. Most block heaters are connected to a constant electrical supply or have a thermostat included to maintain and regulate coolant temperature. It is important to automatically disconnect the heater when the engine start sequence is initiated. Several types of block heater are available:
Tank-style heaters − The most common in practice and mounted on or close to the engine with wattage up to 5000 watts.
Freeze plug heater − Replaces a core or freeze plug in the engine block and has an element inserted in the water jacket channels of the engine block. The coolant is circulated by the thermo siphon effect.
Lower radiator hose heater − Normally only utilized on small engines for generator sets under 15kW.
Lubricating oil
Thermostatically controlled electric heaters can be mounted in the engine lubricating-oil system to maintain the oil temperature at a level for rapid starting. As for block heaters, this device must be automatically disconnected as soon as the engine start cycle is initiated.
Batteries
The ampere hour capacity of the lead acid battery, commonly used on generator systems, reduces as the ambient temperature falls. A fully charged battery with all its cranking power available at 80oF, will only have about 40% available power at 0oF.
A weak battery may not crank the starter motor fast enough or long enough to start a cold engine. Actions for batteries are:
Correct sizing − Consult with the dealer regarding the required ampere hour capacity for the ambient temperature.
Charging − The battery should be maintained in a fully charged state, preferably with automatic battery chargers.
Battery heater pads and blankets − The NFPA 110 standard for standby or emergency generators calls for such devices to be used, where conditions make them necessary.
COMPONENTS OF GENERATOR SYSTEM WHERE COLD TEMPERATURES CAN IMPEDE OPERATION:
In cold ambient conditions normal running operation of a generator set system can be effected. The following areas of the system should be considered to ensure reliable running while the set is in operation:
Fuel system
Incorrect fueling will impact starting and the ability of the generator set to continue in operation. Diesel fuels are susceptible to gelling (waxing) in below freezing conditions. Running sets will shut down if the ambient conditions worsen after start.
The following actions should be taken to ensure continued fuel supply to the system in cold ambients:
Winter grade diesel fuel −It is important to use winter grade diesel fuel (often called No. 1), in lieu of the summer fuel (No. 2), where temperatures dictate. This winter grade fuel is lighter, less oily and has less lubricating qualities than No. 2 fuel.
Fuel conditioners − A number of manufacturers can supply anti-gelling additives for use on site to treat the fuel and prevent crystals forming at low temperatures, where conditions are extreme. Paraffin crystals or molecules precipitate from the fuel and form a waxy substance. This can block the fuel filter (s) which will restrict the fuel flow to the fuel pump and injectors, and need to be dispersed.
Conditioners maintain these crystals evenly throughout the fuel which helps to prevent wax clogging the fuel system. There are certain brands of conditioners that will lower the pour point of the fuel by up to 40%. Some fuel conditioners are freeze depressants that lower the freeze point of any water in the fuel, which helps to prevent damage caused by ice forming in the fuel lines.
Ventilation
A major factor associated with operation in cold climates, is precipitation in the form of ice and snow. Generator sets require adequate ventilation for combustion and cooling. Where accumulation of ice and snow are expected, the set should be installed in a suitable enclosure or building with adequate apertures for inlet and exhaust air ventilation.
In locations where there is blowing snow and ice, moveable louvers can seal the apertures when the generator set is stationary. The moveable louvers should open in a positive manner. Motorized louvers are preferred over those that open with fan pressure because sleet and snow can render them inoperative in a relatively short period.
Air Cleaner Icing
To avoid ice building up in the air cleaner, the air requires only enough heat to be above the dew point. In cold conditions, ensure the inlet air location of the air cleaner is located in an area that receives recirculated warm engine room air.
SUMMARY
Operators have to consider how the cold weather effects the generator system when stationary and during operation. It is important to take the necessary steps to ensure easier starting in cold climates. It is also imperative the necessary actions be taken to ensure the generator set continues to run during operation. Always make sure you have the right individuals servicing your generator system to ensure proper performance when needed. For more information about these concepts visit
http://www.cliffordpower.com/technical-sheets
. For more on the variety of Generac products available, contact Generac Power Systems at
www.generac.com
or toll free at 1-844-ASK-GNRC.
AUTHOR BACKGROUND
Clifford Power Systems® is a privately held corporation with a core focus on generator service and sales. This includes the sale of new equipment; emergency service and preventative maintenance plans for all makes and models; parts sales; rental of generators, cable, distribution, and lighting. Clifford Power Systems, Inc. provides services from eleven office locations in a six-state region, consisting of Missouri, Illinois, Arkansas, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. Clifford Power Systems, Inc. is a Registered Dealer for Generac Industrial Power. and models; parts sales; rental of generators, cable, distribution, and lighting. Clifford Power Systems, Inc. provides services from eleven office locations in a six-state region, consisting of Missouri, Illinois, Arkansas, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. Clifford Power Systems, Inc. is a Registered Dealer for Generac Industrial Power.
Share This Article
Current
Articles
Microgrid Provides a Sustainable Solution Independent from the Grid
Temporary Microgrid Supplies Necessary Power for Construction Job Trailers
LPG: Propane vs. Petroleum Gas as a Generator Fuel
Understanding Power Outages
Comprehensive Emergency Power Plan
Article
Archive
April 2021
August 2021
February 2021
December 2020
January 2022
June 2021
October 2020
August 2020
June 2020
April 2020
February 2020
December 2019
October 2019
August 2019
June 2019
April 2019
March 2019
February 2019
January 2019
December 2018
November 2018
October 2018
September 2018
August 2018
July 2018
June 2018
May 2018
April 2018
December 2017
October 2017
January 2017
October 2016
June 2016
March 2016
December 2015
October 2015
August 2015
Mobile navigation
Call Us at 844-ASK-GNRC
All About
Battery Energy Storage
Generac Industrial Power
HVO
Hydrogen
Industrial Strength
Energy Management
Configured vs Standard
Generator Paralleling
Natural Gas Fuel
Natural Gas Reliability
Natural Gas Performance
Natural Gas Resources
Diesel Fuel
BI-FUEL™
Selecting the Best Fuel Option
Solutions By Industry
Data Centers
Healthcare
Senior Living Solutions
Emergency Power Plan Form
Municipal
Telecommunications
Education
Manufacturing
Small Business
Government
Professional Resources
Generator Specifying, Sizing and Comparison Tools
Generac City
Generac BIM Documents
Emissions Unit Converter
Heat Rate Calculator
Power Design Pro
Total Cost of Ownership Calculator
Information Resources
Case Studies
Video Gallery
News & Whitepapers
Industry News
PowerConnect Newsletter
Whitepapers
Continuing Education
Power Engineer Symposium
Professional Development Seminar Series (PDSS)
Product Documents
Brochures
Spec Sheets
Products
Battery Energy Storage
SBE500 Stationary Battery Energy Storage
SBE1000 Stationary Battery Energy Storage
Diesel Generators
Transfer Switches and Controllers
Power Zone Controllers
G-Panel Controller
Specification Text
TX Series Transfer Switches
PSTS Transfer Switches
Gaseous Generators
BI-FUEL™ Generators
Aftermarket Parts and Service
Webinars
Find a Distributor
Find Service
Careers
Contact Us