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Diesel Genset Transformer Inrush

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elmatador

Electrical
Jun 10, 2009
22
We are currently inplementing a design with a backup diesel generator which is used to backup critical loads in a facility. The generator is a CAT C32 PMG 1MW Standby, 1.25MVA. The generator is coupled to a traditional ATS with open transition transfer. When utility power is lost, the ATS will signal the generator to start, once the generator is up and running then the ATS closes the emergency source breaker.

There are several small step down dry type transformers:
1. Step1: 6x45kVa(Secondary has no load on energization. Secondary Loads are on time delay staggered contactors. Load usage is about 50% of transformer)
2. Step1: 1x15kVA, 3x30kVA. These have primarily resistive loads with 50% usage
3. Step2: 2x100HP motors on wye delta starters with time delay staggered start.
4. Step1: 2x25kW, 2x10kW, 2x5kW, 2x15kW unit heaters. In winter conditions these could potentially start when generator comes online.

Please note the emergency breaker will not be closed before the generator is excited. The generator will see the Step1 loads all at once. My concern is the inrush currents experienced by the genset due to transformer energization. The dry type transformers likely have a 12x or greater inrush.

Is there anyway to determine if the generator can sustain the step1 loads without getting overloaded/tripped? The CAT sizing software uses steady state values so the inrush currents is not properly represented in the calculations. Do you see any potential concerns in the setup?
 
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The set-up looks to me very safe for the DG set to come in and pick up the loads. The transformer in-rush currents can be high but you can provide time delay for inrush currents in overcurrent relay to ride out the transients.

Muthu
 
Thank you kindly for your feeback. This particular setup is for a 600V system. The main generator breaker and ATS breakers are 600V 1200A 100% And come with electronic trip units with adjustable long time, short time, and instantaneous settings. The dry type transformers have thermal magnetic breakers size to 1.25FLA of the transformers. We have the ability to adjust the instantaneous on the main breakers but not the individual feeders.
 
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