Introduction
In simple terms, synchronizing is the process of getting generators to run in parallel.
Synchronization of generators can also be two or more generators of the same or different sizes, or a single generator and the mains supply, are running with their output cables connected to a single electrical bus.
Typically, synchronization of generators refers to two or more diesel generators physically connected, and the electrical output of the generators is synchronized and connected to a common bus on a main distribution panel. A conduit gets created through this, due to which the combined electrical output is delivered to the facility.
The connected generators must be compatible with each other in several specifications.
Need for Synchronization of Generators
Many big industries such as manufacturing industries, IT industries, and Pharmaceutical industries need a continuous and uninterrupted power supply. Unexpected power cuts or remoteness of locations of the industries can impact the power supply.
Also, sometimes many large projects or big events take place in cities. At that time, they may need an additional power supply.
In all such situations, companies seek power through mobile generation. Some companies carry larger generator sets, but then they get into a whole new set of issues. There are many issues associated with carrying large DG sets. This is when the synchronization of generators comes into the picture and becomes advantageous.
- Increased Capacity and Redundancy: Synchronization of generators is needed to increase the total system size and to increase redundancy. Suppose, a factory owner has a single generator at his factory of 500 kVA. In case he wants to expand, then he can add a second generator to increase the total power of the system as per his need.
- Expandability: Using several small generators makes it possible to supply a varying load without spending too much on a big generator whose full capacity is rarely used. It is easy to add generators gradually to expand as the demand increases.
- More Control and Load Balancing with Small Generators: With smaller generators, there is more control and balancing. It is easy to balance the load over the different circuits with small generators and decide on the power to generate at any particular time based on the load.
- Low Cost of Power Generation: As the generator size increases, the cost of power generation increases. It is more for above 66KW. The market for smaller engines is higher, thus there are more manufacturers, which result in lower cost. But for larger engines, there are few manufacturers, hence their cost is higher. So, it is clear that instead of using a single large generator, using several smaller generators is more economical.
Advantages of Synchronization of Generators
There are various advantages of the synchronization of generators.
Let’s find out which are those:-
- Reliability Reliability is the most noticeable and important advantage of the synchronization of generators. If you have only one large generator onsite and if this generator fails, what will happen? In such cases, if you do not even have other backup options onsite to take over the electrical load, then it would be a big problematic situation. A replacement generator can take hours or even days to be in function.
- Increased Power Capacity and Flexibility The system of generator synchronization and load sharing improves scalability, and it provides a business the ability to add additional power as a business grows. That means this setup of synchronization of generators allows for more flexibility. It becomes easy, especially if planned. When more power capacity is needed, additional generators can be added to the paralleled system. The generators can be paralleled, and a multi Megawatt system can be formed.
- Ease of Generator Maintenance If a company uses synchronization of generators, then there can be redundancy in the setup.
- Efficiency Optimization Loads do not remain constant in most of the applications. Due to variations in power demand, a single larger generator may have to operate below its optimal power capacity, and that will lose its efficiency and this may cause fuel problems. These ups and downs in the power supply are handled very well by synchronization of diesel generators, where generators can be kept running at the optimal 75-80% of rated capacity. This maximizes efficiency.
The use of synchronization of multi-megawatt generators will provide you with the ability for generator redundancy. If a generator fails, the controller in the other generators senses the increase in the load and carries the excess load over to the remaining generators. This technique allows companies to never lose their power in any situation. When this setup of synchronized generators is properly installed, it can be easily swapped out without shutting down all the current operations of equipment and without losing any valuable production time.
If one generator fails or needs to shut down, then the other generator can pick up the load and maintain running operations. Due to this, there is no need to shut down daily operations for maintenance. This makes maintenance tasks easier. This system of synchronization of generators enables the emergency backup power system to remain active even during the maintenance period.
Conclusion
Thus, we can say that one of the main reasons for the synchronization of generators is to create redundancy and maintain power continuity. There are many advances in technology nowadays. Synchronized multi-megawatt diesel generator systems are performing even better due to these technological advancements.
In businesses where power is mission-critical, synchronization of diesel generators can offer some real advantages. These systems are now readily available, easy to control, and can be deployed quickly with minimum investment.
We, at Perennial Technologies, provide a system of synchronization of diesel generators.
If you think you should opt for this system of synchronization of generators, then you can contact us. We are ready to help!
Our team of experts will help you and provide engineering and project management support from the beginning till the setup is ready to run!
We also provide genset rentals, load banks on hire, and dewatering pumps for rent at Perennial Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
