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.
The journey towards renewable energy in the Seychelles
Electrical Power & Protection
The Seychelles is committed to its ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Recent technological advancements and strategic planning are steadily paving the way for a more sustainable future.
Read more...High performance power distribution
Electrical Power & Protection
Hexagon Electrical plays an important role in enhancing efficiency and safety through the supply and support of a wide range of critical equipment for hazardous industrial and mining sectors in Africa.
Read more...Navigating solar energy adoption
Electrical Power & Protection
Although South Africa’s enhanced solar tax rebate has ended, solar and energy storage solutions remain accessible and achievable. By taking a proactive and strategic approach, businesses can successfully lower their operational costs, mitigate power outages, and secure long-term energy independence.
Read more...Portable appliance tester Vepac Electronics
Electrical Power & Protection
The new appliance tester from Vepac is the ideal tool for testing the safety of electrical appliances in accordance with DGUV regulation 3 and BetrSichV. It enables the precise measurement of protective conductor or touch current using the equivalent leakage current method.
Read more...Is sustainability enough any more?
Electrical Power & Protection
With the planet’s resources stretched to the brink and no signs of improvement, it is time we look beyond sustainability and explore regenerative thinking and design.
Read more...A simple guide to understanding the importance of IP ratings
Electrical Power & Protection
When selecting electrical products for industrial, commercial or even domestic use, it is crucial to consider how well they can withstand environmental factors like dust and water. This is where ingress protection (IP) ratings come into play.
Read more...A milestone in electrical safety ABB South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Celebrating a milestone in electrical safety, ABB proudly marks the 100-year anniversary of its revolutionary Miniature Circuit Breaker.
Read more...The power of water
Editor's Choice Electrical Power & Protection
The Alpenglow Hy4 is the world’s first water-based hydrogen combustion engine, offering a convincing alternative to traditional battery-electric vehicles and established hydrogen fuel cell designs.
Read more...Optimising purification for green hydrogen production Parker Hannifin - Sales Company South Africa
Editor's Choice Electrical Power & Protection
Parker Hannifin delivers advanced purification and thermal management components that enhance green hydrogen production.
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