Generac 2019 Fall Symposium
Three 500 kW natural gas generators paralleled together at Generac facility in Waukesha, WI.
Last week, we were invited to visit Generac’s headquarters in Waukesha, WI. We spent 2 days learning and touring the Generac manufacturing plant in Eagle, WI. There were approximately 80 engineers at the symposium from all over the country. It is always good to attend these events to network and see how other engineers handle unique situations. We flew up with our Generac dealers, Energy Systems Southeast. They took great care of us on the trip.
The classes that Generac taught during the Symposium:
Generator Sizing - Presents methods and calculations for proper sizing of engine-generators. Explores the alternator and engine responses to different types of loads. Presents different techniques to optimize engine-generator performance.
Generator Switching - Discusses performance criteria used to select transfer switches to connect engine-generator power into loads. Explores different grounding considerations and techniques for different applications, plus the selection of overcurrent protection and transfer switch controls.
NEC and Generators - Presents reasons for standby power generation from the Electrical Code perspective. Explains the various articles and requirements covering standby power generation.
Generator Controls - Discusses the impact of engine-generator controls and the evolution of those controls from simple analog designs to fully integrated digital platforms. Reviews integrated paralleling control technology and fully explore all paralleling functions.
Gen-set Fuel (Natural Gas vs Diesel) - Explores various aspects of generator fuel and the growth of natural gas generators in standby power applications. The discussion includes engine operational technologies, reliability of natural gas and onsite diesel, impacts of demand response programs on fuel choice, and total cost of ownership comparisons.
At the Generac facility, they had one of the first generators made. This generator is an Edison Bipolar Generator, patented from 1879-1882.
After the classes and the tour of the manufacturing facility, Generac treated all of the symposium visitors to a Milwaukee Brewers game. We had a great time, and the Brewers pulled out the win.
We had a great time at the Generac facility and learned a lot about the best practices and installations for generators. Thank you Generac and ESSE for having us.
Arriving at Miller Park in Milwaukee, WI to watch the Brewers play.