F.A.Q.
New to generating sets? In this section you will find all the basics you need to know and the answers to your questions.
Use and functions of a generating set
- What are generating sets?
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A generating set is made up of a diesel, gas or petrol engine and an alternator, configured in such a way as to produce an electrical current. Generating sets are mainly used in standby applications, to supply power in the event of current cut-off. However they can also be used in isolated places as the main source of power when no electrical network exists. As an indication, one 2000 kVA generating set can supply around 250 households.
- What can generating sets be used for?
- How do generating sets work?
- What is the purpose of a thermal circuit-breaker?
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A thermal circuit-breaker is a safety mechanism which stops the current in the event of a power surge. It prevents overheating and overloading the engine and alternator, as well as short-circuits.
- How to use a control panel?
- How can I best estimate the power supply needed?
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To ensure that you choose the right generating set, you should calculate your energy requirements by adding together the power of all the appliances that you need to supply power to simultaneously. In order to do so, you will need to estimate the MPR (minimum power requirement) of each appliance.
- What is MPR (minimum power requirement)?
- What is INVERTER technology?
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This recent technology provides a stable current by ensuring that the voltage and frequency of gensets do not exceed + or - 1% of the nominal value. This extreme precision provides a high quality current which will run even the most demanding of appliances risk-free.
- What is the advantage of automatic idling?
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This function causes the engine speed to drop from 3000 to 2400 rpm when there is no power demand for 2 minutes. As a result, fuel consumption drops by around 50% and the noise level is cut by a factor of four. As soon as power is required again, the engine returns to its normal speed. Available on the SH 10 000 E and the SH 15 000 TE.
- What does the Qualigen chart guarantee?
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Established by the professional organisations GIGREL and SIMOTHERM, the QUALIGEN charter is intended to guarantee consumers against products which do not comply with current regulations and protect them from fraud, in particular in terms of safety, power supply, noise level, information and customer services. Through QUALIGEN, SDMO guarantees the quality and reliability of its products. - Which frequency do I need?
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Current frequency is expressed in Hertz and depends on your country of residence.
- How can I assess and compare noise levels?
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To compare noise levels, you must take values expressed in dB(A) LWA. This is a measurement of the sound power level of the equipment, which is controlled by strict standards and allows relevant comparison. Any other value in decibels, without the symbol LWA, represents the noise level, measured at a given distance, but which may vary according to the position of the measurement point. To assess the noise level, see the diagram illustrating the graduation between the hearing threshold and the pain threshold.
- How to choose your waterpump?
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The important question to ask concerns the type of liquid to be pumped. It can be muddy or clear waters, liquid fertilisers or sea water. The size of the pump and its conception will then determine your choice. To refine your selection, you can also compare the flow to evaluate the speed of pumping or the granulométry more or less important depending on the clarity of the water.
How to choose your generating set or waterpump
- Compliance of PORTABLE POWER standard ranges, C and S
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There are specific requirements for generating sets for both EC and non-EC markets, particularly in relation to compliance with standards. In order to be able to offer products suited to these markets, SDMO® generating sets use HONDA® engines, which are adapted to comply with the requirements of the relevant market. The standard range complies with all European standards and Directives. The C range complies with EC Directives as well as with Directive 97/68/EC relating to levels of gaseous pollutants. However, it does not comply with Directive 2000/14/EC relating to noise levels. The S range does not comply with any of these European directives.
Better known SDMO products
- Installation
- Safety instructions
- Regular maintenance
- Pre-winter maintenance