Your emergency or secondary electrical generation unit contains various switches
designed to manage current flow. Circuit breakers are intended to stop the flow of
current when a fault is present by means of a tripping mechanism that breaks the
arc resided between a set of contacts. A power transfer switch manages the source
of electrical current generation by disconnecting or reconnected power to the main
supply and secondary source. These items can be operated manually or consist of
an automatic failure detection design. An isolation switch is included in the design
to bypass the ATS in situations where the current must be isolated for maintenance.
Additional switches can be found within or outside of your system; however, the above
mentioned are the primary concern when focusing on the importance of generator
services in Carolina.

Generator Services in Carolina Maintain Component Reliability

An automatic transfer switch, or ATS, continuously monitors the supplied current
from the main source and notifies the generator to start when needed. It isolates the
two supplies to prevent them both from simultaneously running. Transition modes
can be open or closed, depending on the exact electrical needs of your building. If a
problem exists with this component, several issues, including failure to start, could
be experienced during a switchover attempt. Generator services in Carolina, such as
routine maintenance scheduling, are the easiest ways to make certain this component is
functioning correctly and is able to complete these transitions safely.

An open transition power transfer switch, also referred to as break before make,
completely severs the connection with one source before converting to the alternative.
This design prevents electricity from flowing back into the utility line on a commercial
setup. Closed transition, or make before break, must be implemented when attached
items cannot suffer a complete loss of electricity. Your building will change over to the
alternative source before the main supply is cut off. Overlap is only a few milliseconds;
however, these designs must operate as make before break during a regular outage
to prevent backfeeding. Professional generator services in Carolina are necessary for
either type to guarantee proper operation and reliable performance.

Manual designs require someone to physically activate the switch by throwing the
lever once the system has started and stabilized. Most commercial setups use an
automatic system to gain faster access to the secondary supply and to remove the need
for human intervention. An ATS monitors delivered current and then triggers a start
when fluctuations or quality problems have been detected. Stabilization is allowed to
occur, and the switch allocates the supply to the backup system. It returns to a normal
position once the main source has been restored for a set time without any further
quality problems. Power transfer switches are an important component that must be
cared for properly to perform these actions at the right time. Prime Power professionals
can help you maintain this aspect of the process, along with all other components of
your secondary setup. Schedule an appointment today to have one of our technicians
perform system testing or routine maintenance for improved performance.

Frequent Reasons for the Arising Need of Generator Services in Carolina

Generator services inCarolinahave found a few items to be common causes for failure.Batteryproblems remain top on the list and can be caused by the following, among other reasons:

- Sulfate Buildup

- Low Electrolyte Levels

- Water Condensation – Accumulation of Lead Debris

- Open Cells

- Frequent Opening or Tripping of the Charger Breaker

Emergency generator maintenance includes the cleaning, inspection, charging, and replacement of battery components. This single task can ensure your unit is capable of starting upon main power failure. Sulfate buildup is caused by a low discharge, water condensation in cells, or debris accumulation. The other listed items could occur due to human error, an aged battery, or several other scenarios. Regular connection inspections can alert a Carolina generator services  technician of developing issues. Here are a few additional routine problems found during an inspection of backup power equipment:

- Low Coolant Levels

- Low Coolant Temperatures

- Leaks

- Wrong Control Settings

- Air Reaching the Fuel System

- No Fuel

- Activation of High Fuel Level Alarm

- Breaker Trips

Leaks, plugged cores, or additional issues often trip the low or high coolant temperature alarm, causing a complete shutdown. A load test under full capacity is the best method for evaluating the operation of a cooling system. Leaks can sometimes be detected by checking the hoses and the main assembly. It is best to call a technician to ensure quick detection and repair. Oil leaks can be an immediate sign of wet stacking, or a result of the mist created by the crankcase breathers. Coolant leaks are typically found in a hose, while fuel seepages result from overfilling or aging lines. Human error such as the wrong control setting will prevent a generator from starting. It is best to have regular maintenance performed by a professional to prevent these failure points. Prime Power professional technicians can create a thorough emergency generator maintenance plan designed around the exact needs of your secondary electrical equipment. Servicing requirements are determined by analyzing the system and reviewing manufacturer specifications. Call today to schedule an appointment and start on the path toward a dependable backup system.

A series of breakers and switches make up the switchgear used by your backup power unit. This combination of parts or disconnect components isolate electrical equipment to control the amount of electricity being transferred into a building. These components have the ability to disconnect circuits when a fault is detected with the supplied current. Faults can stem from an overload where the voltage is too high or a short circuit occurs. Switchgear maintenance ensures these parts are capable of detecting a fault scenario when it happens. Your generator will contain a combination of the following switches:

Isolators

Load Break

Circuit Breakers

Contactors

Disconnect switches, referred to as isolators, are used to interrupt light loads or in situations where no load is present. They have the least amount of arc-quenching capabilities and are designed to only stop the transmission of currents. Load bank designs have the ability to interrupt the current by means of arc chutes. These switches are not meant to detect faults and should remain closed when one is present to prevent damage. Circuit breakers are designed for fault detection of a designated current and have a maximum interruptible limit. Contactors have the ability to disconnect low voltages by air or vacuum. Switchgear components require a certain degree of care that should be performed by a professional generator service in Georgia. Generator Services by Georgia Professionals are a Smart Investment A switchgear complication eventually leads to extensive damage that requires costly repairs by an expert. This type of backup system catastrophe poses significant danger to individuals, in addition to each device utilizing the supplied current. Switchgear maintenance, testing, and regular inspections are important safety measures. Some parts are said to require no additional care, but should be inspected periodically to ensure proper functionality. The development of a preventive care plan is your first step toward dependable operation. It can be financially draining to let a system run until something fails, and this decision could lead to an entire system replacement. A predictive plan consisting of the appropriate testing, cleaning, and replacement practices is a cost effective method for guaranteeing power availability. A professional generator service in Georgia can perform a review of the system’s condition to determine what continued maintenance is necessary. Professionals begin by completing a general review of the components to determine if a failure is present or parts need to be serviced. A technician will go over the repair history, manufacturer specifications, and schematics of the unit. Written records are updated after scheduled care has been completed. A visual inspection, tests, and thermal imaging are performed to determine if additional evaluations will be necessary before a switchgear maintenance routine is derived. These practices help a Prime Power technician lay out the best plan for keeping your generator in optimal shape for receiving dependable performance. Maintenance tasks entail cleaning, part changes, correction of inconsistencies, inspection of each component, and upgrades. Generator services in Georgia can be highly complex or basic depending on the exact needs of your system. The development of a regular maintenance plan is important to the operational safety of these units.

PPS has been very fortunate over the years and we know it is a result of the incredible team we have. So congratulations to the entire Prime Power Service’s Team on a wonderful accomplishment.

Please take a moment and read the Marietta Daily Journals story, ‘Cobb’s Finest’ on all the inductees. Click here to review photos of the Hall of Fame Winners.

Power generation services entail the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of commercial generators. A diesel backup electrical unit requires continual care to be ready for a failure. Basic preventive care increases the longevity of operation and supplies continued peak performance. If your system has been installed for backup or emergency purposes, a dependable servicing company is essential for preventing operational malfunctions. A contract can be established to manage the recommended care specifications provided by the manufacturer. Qualified professionals offering generator services in Georgia have the necessary experience to determine what needs to be done to keep everything in working order.

A Generator Service in Georgia Keeps Your System in Optimal Condition

Maintenance tasks supplied by a generator service in Georgia vary based on the provided manufacturer specifications and the implemented design. Technicians have these specific responsibilities when caring for your unit:

• Complete System Inspection
• Review of Manufacturer Supplied Technical Data
• Maintenance Record Creation and Updating
• Replacement of Worn Parts
• Component Upgrades
• Fluid Level Checks
• Inspection of Batteries
• Connection Cleaning
• Part Lubrication
• Load Bank Testing
• Verification of Control Panel Readings
• Filter Changes

Additional tasks can be included in this list based on design; however, these are the basic steps to expect as a power generation services professional maintains the unit.

Routine maintenance helps you avoid large repairs or a complete failure as outages take place. This minimal investment can protect the installed generator and all devices utilizing its supplied power. Performed work should be logged as part of the history, and include information such as:

• Actions Taken
• Acquired Readings
• Inspection Date
• Hour Meter Reading
• Replaced Components or Upgrades
• Tests Performed

This information makes it easier for a generator service in Georgia to review previous care and spot developing problems. Readings are compared between each visit to make certain large variations are not present. An extensive variation could be a sign of a component malfunction or other type of faulty performance factor. The malfunction of one part can lead to additional part deterioration, thus making it important to catch problems early rather than later. Simple upkeep can prevent extensive costs during the lifespan of your installed backup system.

Maintenance visits decrease the chance of complete system inoperability at critical times when main power is not available. These visits allow part problems to be identified early and repairs to be scheduled appropriately to avoid interruption of business processes. It is also a good idea to verify what a provider can do in regard to servicing your generator. Are they available during off hours and do they have replacement parts on hand? Can they work on the type of generator being used by your building? Power generation services providers should have specific knowledge regarding the unit, be able to service it at times when business is not at its peak, and be capable of making part replacements in an efficient timeframe. Prime Power offers many services to prepare your equipment for the unexpected. Our technicians can perform the above listed tasks along with additional care the unit needs to be readily available.

Weekly Inspection

During the weekly inspection of the EPSS, the component should be checked for signs of oxidization, dirt accumulation, and overheating. If these signs are not present, and the component is in the correct operating position, it should pass inspection.

Monthly Testing

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) requires Level 1 and Level 2 generators to undergo a monthly test. As would occur during an outage, the switch signals the EPSS to start, monitors it during startup, and changes over the building’s load after startup is complete. If the EPSS fails to start, kicks off soon after starting, or fails to carry the load, a recalcitrant power transfer switch might be the problem.

Prime Power performs monthly EPSS testing as part of its generator services in Carolina.

Annual Maintenance

The NFPA requires annual maintenance to be performed on the components to prevent overheated connections, worn contacts, loose cable terminations, and other internal problems. Before investigating the component, the technician disconnects it from the primary source and secondary source, cleans the cabinet that houses it, and then cleans the component.

Next, the component is inspected for signs of deterioration. After their covers are removed, the contacts are inspected. After the covers are replaced, the wires that connect to the device are inspected for cracking, and the control connections are inspected for deterioration. The connections are then re-torqued.

Annual Testing

During the monthly test, manipulating circuits in the component simulates an outage, but simulating a real outage is recommended for the annual test. “Opening up” a building’s EPSS and testing it under real conditions puts the ability of the component to start the EPSS and access its feed to the ultimate test.

Infrared testing should also be performed on an annual basis. By scanning EPSS equipment with an infrared scanner, technicians can uncover “hot spots” in components that indicate early problems. Often, these problems can be fixed before they create larger problems. Infrared testing is fast and affordable. An entire facility can often be scanned in a day.

Prime Power can help

A power transfer switch is an integral part of an EPSS. If it malfunctions, a building cannot access secondary power during an outage. Prime Power can ensure that the transfer switch in your EPSS is ready to perform by inspecting, maintaining, and testing it according to the processes above.

The processes above are a basic overview of how transfer switches should be maintained and tested on a weekly, monthly, and annual basis. For specific questions about EPSS maintenance and infrared testing, call Prime Power, the premier provider of generator services in Carolina, today.

Monthly Guidelines

Each month, a genset should be tested under available load for thirty minutes. During the procedure, the unit must do one of the following to perform at a minimum of thirty percent of its nameplate kilowatt rating, or achieve a minimum exhaust gas temperature as stated by the manufacturer. Most gensets pass the monthly test. Those that do not are subjected to an annual test as described below.

Annual Guidelines

Annual generator testing is recommended for gensets that fail the monthly test. Unlike the monthly procedure, the annual procedure is typically conducted using a supplied load from a load bank. In addition, the annual test lasts for a total of two hours. During this time, the genset must perform as follows:

• 25 percent of the kilowatt rating for 30 minutes
• 50 percent of the kilowatt rating for 30 minutes
• 75 percent of the nameplate kilowatt rating for 60 minutes

The procedure above can help restore the efficiency of an old genset, preparing it to perform as expected during an outage. In some cases, the reason for inefficient performance is wet stacking a condition where unburned fuel accumulates in the exhaust mechanism of the genset. If left unresolved, wet stacking could cause equipment damage, along with a drop in efficiency.

Infrared Scanning

Infrared scanning is not a part of monthly or annual genset testing, but it should be performed annually to test for problems with EPSS components. Using an infrared scanner, a technician can scan EPSS components to identify potential problem areas. Often, these areas give off abnormal heat readings that are picked up by the scanner. In many cases, infrared scanning identifies problems in the early stages, before they show the usual signs.

Choosing a Provider

For facilities that contain Level 1 and Level 2 gensets, generator testing is an important aspect of protecting human life and business interests. Therefore, these facilities should have their EPSS maintained and tested by an experienced generator service in Georgia, such as Prime Power. When the procedures above are performed properly, a facility genset is prepared for a power outage.

For over twenty-five years, Prime Power has been the generator service in Georgia with the most expertise and broadest range of services. In addition to EPSS testing, we also supply industrial and commercial power users with the following services, among others:

• Scheduled maintenance
• Breaker testing
• Healthcare utility management
• Arc flash analysis and training
• Modernization and retrofits

To have the genset in your facility tested according to NFPA guidelines, or to learn more about the services above, call Prime Power today for a free consultation.

Arc Flash Statistics

The U.S. Department of Labor reports that 2,000 electrical workers are admitted to burn units each year with serious arc flash injuries. As for what defines a serious arc flash injury financially, CapSchell, a Chicago based research and consulting firm, notes the total cost of a serious electrical injury can approach $10 million. A company’s insurance carrier can shoulder most of that cost, but the ensuing rise in insurance premiums could be painful.

Considering the injuries that arc flashes could cause workers and the financial difficulty those injuries can cause employers, facility managers should take every opportunity to prevent arc flashes. When they do, they hire a power service to perform the following measures on a set schedule:

• Check the switchgear for loose terminations
• Check for debris and dust build up on internal switchgear components
• Test the switchgear for stored energy
• Check for proper system design and modifications
• Examine the design of switchgear housing

In addition to receiving the critical power services above, the switchgear in an Emergency Power Supply System (EPSS) should be tested annually according to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) code 70E. This test is often performed in conjunction with NFPA 110 monthly generator testing.

Additional Safety Measures

In addition to setting testing guidelines for switchgear that isolates an EPSS, NFPA 70E also establishes guidelines for the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) electrical workers should wear when they service the equipment. NFPA 70E bases PPE guidelines on the incident energy level of switchgear, which is expressed as calories per centimeters squared. There are four hazard levels requiring different types of PPE:

• Level 1  – Fire Resistant (FR) shirt and pants
• Level 2  – Cotton underwear and FR shirt and pants
• Level 3  – Cotton underwear, FR shirt and pants, and FR coveralls
• Level 4  – Cotton underwear, FR shirt and pants, and multilayer flash suit

Facilities should also protect workers by posting warning labels on switchgear that indicate its hazard level and the type(s) of PPE they must wear when accessing it.

Does Your Facility Need Arc Flash Analysis?

Arc flashes happen in an instant, but the damage it could cause could take years for the injured victim and his or her company to recover. Prime Power can help keep your company and its workers from being in this position by performing arc flash analysis on its switchgear.

For over twenty-five years, Prime Power has performed arc flash analysis, NFPA 110 generator testing, infrared scanning, scheduled maintenance, and other critical power services that are essential to the efficiency, reliability, and safety of a facility’s electrical system. Call us today for a free consultation on arc flash analysis.

Select a Service that Offers Scheduled Maintenance

Improper maintenance is a major reason for generator failure. Although generators are operated infrequently, they have filters, switches, and other components that must be checked on daily, weekly, monthly, semiannual, and annual schedules. A service that offers scheduled maintenance can help you perform these checks at the proper times, keeping your generator ready for the next outage.

Select a Service that Conducts Generator Testing

Generator testing assesses the efficiency of a generator. According to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) code 110, a Level 1 or Level 2 generator should be tested monthly for thirty minutes. If a generator performs below thirty percent of its nameplate kilowatt rating during the test, it should be subjected to an annual two-hour test. If your generator is not tested according to NFPA 110 guidelines, it may not operate as efficiently as it should.

Select a Service that Conducts Breaker Testing

The switchgear that isolates an EPSS electrically protects it from being damaged by fault currents. Ensuring that the switchgear is properly inspected, maintained, and tested is vital to protecting a significant investment.

Select a Service that Performs Retrofitting and Modernization

Older generators can benefit from being retrofitted or modernized, measures that can improve the efficiency of a generator and extend its lifespan. If a power generation service does not offer these services, it may recommend replacing a generator that could instead be retrofitted or modernized. Retrofitting or modernizing a generator can save lots of money compared to replacing it, so be sure to choose a service the performs both services.

Select a Service that Performs Infrared Testing

Infrared testing can detect problems in EPSS components before they become obvious. By registering abnormal heating patterns that often radiate from the problem area, infrared scanners help companies address faulty EPSS components before they malfunction, cause other equipment damage, or worse. Infrared testing should be performed annually, and can often be completed in a day.

Select a Service that Conducts Loadbank Testing

In loadbank testing, a loadbank is used to “exercise” a generator, which is usually done for one of two reasons: to perform the annual generator test described in NFPA 110; or to resolve wet stacking, which occurs when unburned fuel leaks onto the exhaust side of a generator, causing parts corrosion and a drop in efficiency. Prime Power has portable load banks that are easy to transport to and from your facility.

Is Your EPSS in Need of Service?

If you need a power generation service to maintain your EPSS, Prime Power can help. In addition to performing NFPA 110 generator testing and the other services above, we also offer:

• Arc flash analysis and training
• Healthcare utility management
• Generator rentals
• Maintenance of all EPSS components

To learn what services are right for your EPSS, call us today for a free consultation.