What Is a Generator Control Panel?
A generator control panel is a display parameter that presents various details and parameters, such as current, voltage, and frequency. While some control panels have built-in displays so that operators could visually review a generator’s function, many other control panels have meters and gauges that will display information.
Whether the control panel has a built-in display, meters, or gauges, they are usually constructed in a metal weatherproof housing and mounted on the generator, along with vibration proof padding to help insulate the control panel from shocks.
Larger commercial generators (industrial grade generators and high voltage commercial generators) generally have control panels that are detached from the generator itself due to their size. Control panels that are fitted for these generators are usually able to be standalone, wall-mounted, or shelf-mounted due to shear weight and size.
Generator control panels also have buttons and switches that help ensure operation of the generator. In addition to having the on/off switch, generator control panels have buttons that allow the generator operator to program specific functions or to monitor specific parameters. Generally, all switches and gauges are clustered together and grouped by functionality. This makes the generator control panel user friendly and safe for operational use, as it can help minimize the chances of a generator operator from accidentally hitting the wrong control in the event of an emergency.
What Does A Generator Control Panel Do?
The generator control panel can essentially be seen as the user interface that allows operators to control the generator, as well as check on system diagnostics, overall functions, and current status of a generator. Generators are heavy pieces of machinery and like all heavy equipment, can be prone to overheating, fluctuations in speed, and can suffer from everyday wear & tear, engine fatigue, or be affected by ambient temperatures and climate. Critical functions include protecting your generator’s engine by monitoring oil pressure, coolant temperature, and automatically shutdown the generator engine to prevent irreparable or costly damage.
How Does A Generator Control Panel Work?
Generator control panels contain a microprocessor that can process and manipulate input from sensors to help provide feedback to the genset to monitor itself and manage any processes that come about. A common feedback setting would be temperature. When the generator engine begins to reach temperatures meet or exceed to temperature sensor setting, the generator could be prompted to shutdown automatically to prevent damage.
Generator control panels are often paired together with an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS). An ATS will prompt the generator to kick in seconds within the event of power loss due to power outage. Once power is restored from the main power grid, the generator will be prompted to shut off, as service from the main grid will resume. This is simply due to the fact that because the ATS is connected to the main grid, the ATS can detect an outage and signal the control panel to start the generator without the need to manually start the generator.
Without an ATS (Automatic Transfer Switch), you will need staff on-site to manually flip the switch on the generator controls to run the generator in the event of a power outage and must also manually turn off the generator once power is restored. Failure to turn off the generator after power to the main grid is restored can cause an effect called back feeding, which can be lethal to any electricians that are working on the power lines.
Potential Benefits of Generator Control Panels
Generator control panels offer a variety of benefits, including:
- Error elimination: A generator control panel helps eliminate operating errors.
- Increased efficiency: Improved generator control can help your generator run more efficiently.
- Improved safety: Current and volt supervision support safer operation.
- Fewer costs: Enhanced generator control will help lower generator upgrade frequency as well as maintenance and operation costs.
- Enhanced reliability: Being able to monitor generator function and perform event analysis can yield insight on making your generator more reliable.
Tailored Solutions
Almost all generators come with control panels designed by the brand generator manufacturers, but there may be specific power or parameter setting needs that do not come with the stock generator control panel. If this is the case, changing specific settings or programming of a control panel may be possible.
The Woodstock Power Company Experience
At Woodstock Power Company, our experts work with commercial backup power generator sets every day. They have the necessary experience to guide you in choosing -a generator that will fit your precise needs. Whether you work in commercial real estate, a hospital, a data center or a business facility, we have what it takes to help you find the right generator.
Our experts are standing by to answer your questions and help you determine your preferences. We can work with you on:
- Power requirements, such as long-term or temporary power
- Natural gas or diesel preference
- Portable or stationary requirements
- Space or exhaust restrictions
- Prime or standby power needs
If you want to learn more about the different types of generators, we can help. Our team can also assist you in finding new, used or surplus generators that fit your application because we carry top-rated models. Whether you need prime, standby or continuous power, we’ll help you find a reliable generator at a fraction of the cost.
Other benefits of working with us include:
- We complete thorough generator inspections to ensure dependability, including comprehensive testing on every model we list for sale.
- Our technicians can complete any repairs or modifications required to ensure your unit meets industry standards.
We also buy used generators that are still in good working condition if you want to sell an older model to help fund your upgrade.
Learn More About Generator Controls From the Woodstock Power Experts
If you have any questions, concerns or inquiries, please contact Woodstock Power Company today for more on our full-service commercial generator experience, products and services.
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