(Peoria, Ill.) - Caterpillar Inc. announces the availability of a new diesel-fueled generator set that joins the new line of generator sets with ACERT(TM) Technology to be introduced to the market. The rating ranges for this new 60 Hz package include 350 - 550 ekW (Standby) and 320 - 455 ekW (Prime), all powered by the new Cat(R) C15 engine. The 60 Hz generator set is designed for standby, prime and load management applications, offering the latest in engine design technology to provide emissions compliance without sacrificing power density or fuel economy.
With $500 million invested in research and more than 250 patents behind it, ACERT Technology is another example of how Caterpillar is a technological leader in the power generation marketplace. The new line of generator sets offer EPA Tier 3 certified (320-450 ekW), Tier 2 certified (455-550 ekW), and low BSFC (320-500 ekW) ratings. EPA Tier 1-capable models are now available to meet the requirements of the New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) for Stationary Reciprocating Compression Ignition Engines, which mandate that new stationary generator sets in the U.S. meet Tier 1 emissions levels at a minimum for 2006.
In addition, 300-, 600- and 750-gallon, dual-wall, UL 142 approved sub-base fuel tanks are available for order.The self-excited, random-wound generator features a Class H insulation system. It offers IP23 protection, a R448 voltage regulator with load adjustment, and 2/3 pitch stator winding designed to minimize third harmonic voltage. The single bearing compact design is close-coupled to the engine, offering a smaller footprint and a wider scope of installation options. Standard on 600V packages and available as an option on 480V packages, the Auxiliary Winding, Regulator Exciter Principle (AREP) provides excitation power that is independent of the load.
As a result, AREP provides short-circuit sustaining capability, improved motor starting, permanent magnet excitation and improved non-linear load handling capability. An advanced power center is designed to isolate the control panel and electrical connections from generator set-induced vibration. The rear-mounted power center contains the control panel, power termination equipment (with copper bus bars or optional circuit breaker) and a segregated wiring box. It offers flexible mounting options and AC power cable entry locations, with the ability to specify up to three circuit breakers per package.
The generator set is equipped with an Air-To-Air After Cooler (ATAAC) cooling system with a radiator core design that condenses the footprint, improves airflow, increases static restriction capability and lowers transportation costs. Its radiator package offers an ambient capability of 50 degrees C (open package) and 43 degrees C (enclosed package). An ADEM(TM) A4 controller, MEUI fuel system, and cross-flow cylinder head comprise the building blocks of ACERT(TM) Technology. The ADEM A4 controller precisely regulates engine functions, including airflow and the performance of the fuel injectors, subsequently enabling the fuel injectors to deliver accurate, precisely timed volumes of fuel.
The newly designed cylinder head, with a unique cross-flow design, incorporates manifolds engineered to dramatically improve combustion airflow. The generator set includes a standard Electronic Modular Control Panel (EMCP) 3.1 control system that offers enhanced flexibility and can be configured to site-specific requirements. The EMCP 3.1 model controller combines engine and generator control and monitoring into a single, digital panel for quick key access to engine and generator controls, diagnostics and operating information.
It communicates over a common J1939 package network and features a graphical display with adjustable back lighting. The rear-mounted control panel offers speed adjust, an emergency stop push-button and voltage adjust. It is also packaged and mounted to facilitate easy viewing and access for readings and adjustments.
Additional functionality is available on the optional EMCP 3.2 and 3.3 controllers, including power metering, protective relaying and MODBUS RTU communication capability.
Both the EMCP 3.2 and 3.3 controllers support the J1939 accessory data link, which allows for the addition of EMCP 3 Annunciator modules and the Discrete I/O module. The EMCP 3.3 controller offers enhanced engine monitoring and the ability to support the RTD and Thermocouple modules, which deliver additional generator temperature monitoring and protection.
With multiple control panel and power connection location options, the new generator set offers flexible rear and right-hand mounting of the user interface panel, load take-off bus and circuit breakers.The generator set offers a standard formed steel narrow base frame, with seismic Zone 4 linear vibration isolators, suited for indoor installations. An optional formed steel wide base frame is available to easily accommodate installation of an enclosure. Dual wall, UL142 approved integral tanks are offered in 300- and 400-gallon capacities. Caterpillar is leading the power generation marketplace with power systems engineered to deliver flexible, expandable, reliable and cost-effective solutions.
Caterpillar offers worldwide product support, with parts and service available globally through the Cat(R) dealer network. Cat dealer service technicians are trained to service every aspect of Cat equipment. For more than 80 years, Caterpillar Inc. has been building the world's infrastructure and, in partnership with its worldwide dealer network, is driving positive and sustainable change on every continent.
With 2004 sales and revenues of $30.25 billion, Caterpillar is a technology leader and the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, clean diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines.
