The Modular Power System (MPS) from Generac Power Systems, Waukesha, Wis., is a flexible and expandable back up power solution that offers scalability, redundancy and superior reliability, according to Paul Bowers, vice president, industrial sales, Generac.
“In an MPS system, each genset backs up the others in the system, so critical loads receive redundant protection,” says Bowers. “This system also allows end-users to quickly and easily add units as additional power is needed. MPS gensets are small enough to fit into spaces that can’t accommodate large units and are light enough for rooftop applications. The heart of the MPS is the PowerManager System Controller, a fully integrated controller that eliminates the need for expensive switchgear.”
The PowerManager enhances reliability by minimizing component count and integrating multiple generator control functions into a single controller. The system features load shedding control and the GenLink interface software, a remote generator monitoring and controlling software package. The PowerManager also features a touch-screen interface and advanced diagnostic capabilities that make generator service easy.
“The concept of using multiple gensets in parallel to produce greater amounts of power is not a new concept,” says Bowers. “However, our MPS provides all the benefits of parallel generation in a simple, single-source system. In the past, the high cost of switchgear made the multiple unit arrangement feasible only for expensive, high-end applications.”
According to Bowers, the MPS provides the ability to implement n + 1 (need plus one) or greater redundancy at a much lower acquisition cost, providing greater reliability and coverage during maintenance.
Depending upon fuel preference, a variety of gensets are available as the building blocks of the MPS system, including the Gemini® Twin Pack model, which offers 1 megawatt of power. MPS gensets can be easily combined, even if the kilowatt (kW) ratings are different. Diesel MPS offerings range from 600 to 9,000 kW, gaseous MPS models cover outputs from 200 to 3,000 kW and Bi-FuelTM MPS combinations (using 30 percent diesel, 70 percent natural gas) range from 600 to 9,000 kW.
Generator Modules (kW Ratings) Combined Output Range
Diesel 300 - 600 300 to 9,000 kW
Natural Gas 100 - 300 100 to 3,000 kW
Bi-Fuel 600 600 to 9,000 kW
When the gensets are started in response to an outage or command, the first unit to reach proper voltage and frequency connects to the generator bus. As the other gensets come up to proper speed, they are paralleled to the generator bus, adding their output. Depending upon the configuration and number of transfer switches, the load can be transferred incrementally or all at once. The generators proportionately share the load, while acting as a single unit.
The MPS also offers other significant benefits. Installation is easier, since the smaller gensets can be lifted, moved and placed with conventional lifting equipment instead of heavy-duty cranes. Large, single engine units from other manufacturers have extended lead times, so a waiting period of more than one year is not uncommon. The MPS is available much more quickly, with typical lead times of 12 to 14 weeks under normal circumstances
For further information on the Modular Power System, click here.
About Generac Power Systems, Inc.
For 50 years, Generac Power Systems, Inc. has been a leading manufacturer and marketer of innovative industrial, commercial and residential standby generators. For industrial requirements, Generac offers the Generac modular power system (MPS) for exceptional reliability and scalability; the Bi-Fuel system for dramatic fuel cost savings; and the Gemini Twin Pack system for serious space-saving requirements.
