Caterpillar Brings ACERT™ Technology to Diesel Generator Sets

  • September 15, 2005
  • Caterpillar Inc.
  • News
(Peoria, Ill.), September 15, 2005 --Caterpillar Inc. introduces the first in a new series of diesel-fueled generator sets with ACERT™ Technology. The rating ranges for the new package include 900 - 1000 ekW and 1000 - 1100 kVA, all powered by the new Cat(R) C32 engine. With this introduction, Caterpillar is the first to offer the North American marketplace an EPA Tier 2 certified generator set. The new generator sets are designed for standby applications and load management, 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 why Caterpillar continues as a world leader in power generation. Additional generator sets (125-800kW) utilizing ACERT Technology will be released throughout the remainder of 2005 and into 2006."With a foundation of experience in emissions compliance for truck, industrial and marine engines, Caterpillar is proud to now offer ACERT Technology to the electric power industry," said Jeff Horn, Director of Electric Power Marketing for Caterpillar. "Not only does ACERT Technology allow us to meet worldwide emission regulations, but this new technology also delivers improved fuel efficiency and higher power density in a smaller footprint, all critical benefits to customers in our industry." Available in 60 Hz and 50 Hz models, the C32 clean diesel generator set is powered by a 32-liter displacement, 12-cylinder, "V" configured engine. The generator features a permanent magnet excitation with Class H insulation, Class F temperature ratings 105°C prime/130°C standby), and anti-condensation space heaters. Winding temperature detectors are standard on select generator models. The C32 generator set is also equipped with an Air-To-Air After Cooler (ATAAC) cooling system with a serpentine core radiator that condenses its footprint, improves airflow and increases static restriction capability, and lowers transportation costs.The 900 and 1,000 ekW standby rated/60 Hz models are available in low BSFC and EPA Tier 2 compliant configurations, with the latter model meeting the requirements of the U.S. EPA Tier 2 Certified Emissions Regulations for Off-Road Mobile application (effective January 1, 2006). It additionally meets the requirements of the New Source Performance Standard for Stationary Reciprocating Compression Ignition Engines (NSPS), which mandates that new stationary generator sets in the U.S. meet Tier 1 emissions levels at minimum.An ADEM(TM) A4 controller, mechanically actuated electronic fuel injection (MEUI), and cross flow cylinder head comprise the building blocks of the Cat C32 Engine with ACERT 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 C32 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. The EMPC 3.1 communicates over a common J1939 package network and can support 17 optional languages, with English included as standard. The EMCP 3.1 also features a graphical display with adjustable back lighting.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 also 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 also 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 C32 generator set additionally offers flexible rear, right or left-hand mounting of the user interface panel, load take-off bus, and circuit breakers. Enhanced package-mounted circuit breaker options include the ability to mount up to three separate circuit breakers or one 4,000-Amp circuit breaker onto the generator set. The package design supports UL (80- and 100-percent rated) or IEC-rated circuit breakers with electronic trip units in three- or four-pole configurations. Mechanical-operated circuit breakers are standard, with the option of adding electric-motor operators. 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 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. For more information on Cat generator sets and power systems, or to find the local Cat dealer nearest you, please visit us on the web at www.cat-electricpower.com or email [email protected]. For more information on Cat Engines with ACERT Technology, please visit us on the web at www.cat.com/acert or stop by booth No. 3014 at POWER-GEN International, December 6-8, 2005 in Las Vegas, to see firsthand this evolutionary technology.

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