Synchronising Panels: Adding seamless symphony to Power

Synchronising Panels are used to ensure seamless flow of power through the DG sets when the main source of power falters.

The act is critical as it prevents any chance of an interim shut down of a critical device during power failure. A power fluctuation can result in the device restarting or even turning faulty.

A modern synchronizer compares the frequency and phase of the two voltages, and sends a correction signal to the summing point of the governor controlling the prime mover of the oncoming generator. When the outputs of the two systems are matched in frequency and phase, the synchronizer issues a breaker-closing signal to the tie-breaker, paralleling the two systems.

These synchronizers may include voltage-matching circuits which send raise and lower signals to the voltage regulator of the oncoming generator. If the voltage of the oncoming generator does not match the bus within set limits, the synchronizer will not allow a circuit breaker closure.

The synchronising panels can perform the following tasks depending on the requirement:-

• Synchronous operation of multiple generator sets with each other.
•  Synchronous operation of a single generator set with network
•  Synchronous operation of multiple generator sets with network
•  Synchronous operation of multiple generator sets with multiple networks

In order for the diesel generator sets to be synchronized, enabling them to run parallel, certain conditions need to be met. They need to have the same voltage, phase rotation, frequency & angular phase relationship. They need to share the load with respect to their ratings.

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By the sheer nature of its functioning, there are certain rules and regulations that the DG Sets fall in. The fundamental functions of these regulations are to curb the noise pollution that DG Sets may cause.

For instance the noise standards for DG Sets (15-500 KVA) should be less than, 94+10 log10 (KVA), dB (A), at the manufacturing stage. This level should fall by 5 dB (A) every five years. These rules are not just for the manufacturer. There is a need for mandatory acoustic enclosure/acoustic treatment of room for stationary DG sets (of 5 KVA and above). The acoustic enclosure/acoustic treatment of the room should be designed for minimum 25 dB (A) Insertion Loss or for meeting the ambient noise standards, whichever is on the higher side. The measurement for Insertion Loss may be done at different points at 0.5m from the acoustic enclosure/room, and then averaged. The DG set should also be provided with proper exhaust muffler with Insertion Loss of minimum 25 dB (A).

For DG sets of 5 KVA and above, the manufacturer should offer to the user a standard acoustic enclosure of 25 dB(A) Insertion Loss and also a suitable exhaust muffler with Insertion Loss of 25 dB(A). Meanwhile the user should make efforts to bring down the noise levels due to the DG set, outside his premises, within the ambient noise requirements by proper sitting and control measures.

The total sound power level of a DG set, at the user's end, needs to be within 2 dB(A) of the total sound power level of the DG set, at the manufacturing stage. Installation of a DG set needs to be strictly in compliance with the recommendation of the DG set manufacturer. Users are expected to set and follow a proper routine and preventive maintenance procedure for the DG set, which would help prevent noise levels of the DG set from deteriorating with use.

Additionally the generator sets above 5KVA are not allowed to be operated in residential areas between the hours from 10.00 p.m. to 6.00 a.m. The only exceptions to this rule are the generator sets of Group Housing Societies and Multi-storey residential apartments". The diesel generator sets above the capacity of 5 KVA in all areas residential/commercial/industrial shall operate only with the mandatory acoustic enclosures and other standards prescribed in the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986. Diesel generator sets used in social gatherings and public functions shall be permitted only if they have installed mandatory acoustic enclosures and adhere to the prescribed standards for noise and emission as laid down in the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986. Flouting of these rules may land the user/manufacturer under trouble. It may be a punishment of imprisonment for a term which may extend to five years with fine which may extend to one lakh rupees, or with both.

So while we use DG Sets to ensure our comfort, we need to ensure compliance with various factors so that the experience is as pleasant for those living around.