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Liquid Cooled Genset Application Manual - Mechanical Design

Chapter 6: Mechanical Design

Please read the Warranty Statement carefully before proceeding with any design or ordering materials or labor.

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The mechanical design of the installation provides the infrastructure to support the needs of the generator.

A proper foundation and mounting are essential to support the generator set and to prevent damaging or annoying vibration energy levels being transmitted into the building structure. Cummins Power Generation products are either provided with in-built anti-vibration mountings or are equipped with mountings for positioning under the skid frame.

The exhaust system must be designed to accommodate the level of sound reduction necessary in the location and to direct the exhaust plume away from the air intake. Examples are given of exhaust pipe size calculations to achieve required back pressures.

The engine cooling system design may use a skid-mounted radiator, where the generator is positioned near to an exterior wall. Alternatively, remote radiator designs or cooling towers may be used to cool basement or similarly located generators.

Room ventilation, fuel supply and noise reduction, fire protection and room design are also covered in-depth in this chapter.

Requirements and Recommendations:

  • The foundation provides a support for the skid-mounted generator and must be capable of supporting the mass of the generator together with dynamic loadings. Consult the generator data sheets and general arrangement diagrams for details.
  • Standard mountings provide 60-80% vibration isolation. For higher levels of vibration isolation spring mountings can be supplied that can isolate up to 95-98% of vibration. Do not use external spring isolators in conjunction with in-built anti-vibration mountings unless individually authorized by Cummins Power Generation.
  • The engine exhaust gas system must be sized to avoid exceeding the back pressure limitations of the engine.
  • Engine exhaust gas leaves the engine at up to 1020°F / 550°C. Ensure that no flammable materials are used close to the exhaust installation. Use approved non-combustible thimbles for through-wall transitions.
  • Make adequate allowances for expansion of exhaust pipes.
  • Do not apply insulation to turbochargers and manifolds unless authorized to do so.
  • Ensure that engine exhaust is routed to a clear exit. Do not allow the exhaust to discharge into a courtyard or other partly-enclosed space.
  • The engine cooling system must be designed for the maximum site temperature including solar radiation effects, where applicable.
  • Set mounted cooling systems will be designed for the maximum conditions shown on the rating sheet. Derating of performance will be required for conditions in excess of those stated. Remote cooling systems must be designed for the engine temperatures given in the data sheet.
  • Engine coolant may require addition of anti-freeze to avoid cavitation as well as to prevent freezing – consult the operation and maintenance manuals.
  • Ensure that recirculation of exhaust gas and hot air is avoided.
  • Diesel fuel pipework must be constructed from black iron pipe – never galvanized or copper pipework. Ensure adequate arrangements are made for filling, ventilation and overflow.
  • Gaseous fuel installations must be constructed in accordance with local code.

For information regarding your application contact your nearest distributor.

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