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Standby Generators For IT Systems

From the perspective of supporting IT systems, the type of generator required will normally be a relatively small standby generator as opposed to much larger systems necessary to provide prime power or whole-site standby power.

Types of generator

Diesel generators are the most commonly installed. The fuel is usually chosen for its low flammability and stability over time. Also, when considering capital expenditure, diesel-powered products are usually the most cost effective.

Natural gas is a regularly used alternative where available, although the engine will be need to be larger than a diesel equivalent to compensate for the lower calorific value of gas compared with petrol or diesel.

Weight

Generators are heavy. A 100kVA generator will weigh approximately 1.7 metric tons. The installation position is therefore important. If the chosen site is at ground level, for instance, the car park, weight is not a problem. If however the installation site is within a building, or on the roof, the load bearing capabilities of the structure will need to be ascertained

Exhaust, noise and heat emissions

All internal combustion engines produce carbon monoxide (CO) emissions and noise. Exhaust gasses will have to be vented, and best practice is for this exhaust pipe to be of less than 10 meters in length. The exit point should be away from windows and other air intake points. Noise can be attenuated to an acceptable level for use outdoors by the use of acoustic hoods and to a lesser degree, weather-proof enclosures.

Regular maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure reliability should a power failure occur. Taking a maintenance contract ensures that, if there is an emergency, an engineer will be despatched within four hours of a fault being reported. A typical maintenance contract, such as those we provide, include two visits every year to clean filters and check or change the oil and battery fluids (on certain models) in addition to the other regular checks to ensure reliability.

Remote monitoring

Remote monitoring is a valuable maintenance option. The service provides constant monitoring while the generator is in operation and monitors your weekly auto-start procedures. It automatically confirms successful test runs, provides notification of any mains failure, common alarms and low fuel levels. You are notified of any alerts by SMS text or email as required.

Load bank testing

The service can be performed independently, or as an addition to the generator maintenance, and is undertaken by attaching an electrical load to the generator and monitoring results.

By: Arthor Pens

For further information on your IT system's power requirements then it is worth visiting www.upssystems.uk.com which explains power requirements in more detail.

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