Local genset manufacturer, Zest WEG Group, believes that those involved in the purchasing decision as well as the end-users of standby power generation systems need to apply more attention to engine selection during the specification process.
Louis Kotze, chief operating officer at Zest WEG Group generator set division, says that with the increasing call for gensets in standby power applications it is necessary for specifiers to fully understand the operational requirement of these units, and then apply this knowledge to the engine selection.
“An area where cost savings can be achieved without impacting on the reliability or operation of a standby genset is the engine,” he explains. “An engine in a standby power application will run for limited duration during power outages, yet we often see tenders requesting top-of-the-range premium brand engines that are completely over specified for this function. Not only is this a waste of capital expenditure but it could also affect the operating costs.”
Kotze says it is far more prudent to allow the genset OEM to assist in advising and specifying a fit for purpose engine. He explains that the engine in a standby genset would have an estimated run time of 250 hours per year with a maximum of 80% average load factor.
He says the resistance to engines manufactured in Asian countries is largely a thing of the past: “The last five years have seen the majority of the leading global engine OEMs invest in or partner with manufacturing facilities in the East, and this has resulted in lower cost units being produced to OEM specification under exacting quality standards.”
These engines are now largely supported by locally-based South African representatives or agents, which assures end users of sustainability and access to parts over the long term. Both will ensure reduced total cost of ownership.
Another important point that must be kept in mind is that the genset OEM and not the engine supplier will carry the warranty for the engine.
Kotze reiterates that for this reason it is important to deal with a reputable genset OEM that has the necessary technical expertise and knowledge as well as the financial stability to support the product once it is in the field.
Zest WEG Group operates an extensive genset manufacturing facility in Cape Town and can supply standby power solutions in stationary or mobile configurations from 10 kVA up to 3 350 kVA. Kotze says the capacity can be increased upwards with multiple synchronised sets.
Rail electrification and EV solutions for integrated transport systems
Electrical Power & Protection
A comprehensive range of solutions for rail electrification and electric vehicles is available from leading technology provider ABB, contributing significantly to integrated and sustainable transport systems.
Read more...PPS delivers containerised distribution board for Western Cape hybrid power project
Electrical Power & Protection
South African electrical enclosure specialist Power Process Systems has successfully completed the design, fabrication and commissioning of a 4000 A containerised distribution board for a wind/PV solar hybrid renewable energy project on a site in the Western Cape.
Read more...The choice of a thermal carrier is critical for optimal processing
Electrical Power & Protection
Historically steam, fuelled by coal, has been the most prevalent thermal carrier in South African industry. However, times are changing, with the manufacturing and processing sector needing to review the energy reticulation systems and thermal carriers currently in use.
Read more...ABB’s blueprint for a net zero future
Electrical Power & Protection
ABB’s Mission to Zero is a strategic initiative aimed at achieving a sustainable future characterised by zero emissions, zero accidents and zero waste.
Read more...General-purpose 350 W AC-DC power supply
Electrical Power & Protection
The TDK-Lambda GUS350 series of compact single-output general-purpose power supplies addresses the need for an economically priced product while maintaining reliability and quality.
Read more...Ground-breaking battery tester Comtest
Electrical Power & Protection
Midtronics offers the proven MVT handheld battery tester. This revolutionary tool, powered by MDX-AI, is set to redefine the standards of battery diagnostics and testing in the automotive industry.
Read more...Energy audits pave the pathway to sustainability and savings Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Energy audits serve as essential tools for businesses looking to reduce costs and meet environmental targets. By analysing energy consumption across systems such as lighting, HVAC, ICT and water infrastructure, audits identify inefficiencies and quantify carbon footprints, enabling data-driven decisions for operational and financial optimisation.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version