Generator Basics: Generator Nameplates
What is The Generator Nameplate?
Correct information is necessary when making decisions, and can be critical when it comes to commercial generators. Misunderstanding or lack of product information can lead to costly mistakes. That is why it is important to be able to understand what your generator’s nameplate is telling you.
Where is it?
The generator’s nameplate (sometimes referred to as the data tag), is usually located near the control panel or within sight of the observation window on enclosed units. Older generators have metal nameplates riveted directly to the housing, while more modern generators have the information on laminated decals. The exact location is usually listed in the operator’s manual.
Deciphering the Codes
Besides the basics: age, manufacturer name, and address; the nameplate also states the model number and the serial number, which in themselves contain important information. Each manufacturer has a unique code; a sequence of numbers and letters that denote the various attributes of the individual generator. The literature provided by the manufacturer should have a key to deciphering both the model number and serial number.
Certification Marks
The nameplate should also contain certification marks. According to Wikipedia, “a certification mark indicates the existence of an accepted product standard or regulation and a claim that the manufacturer has tested or verified the product to certify compliance with that standard or regulation.” Common certification marks found on industrial generators include American National Standards Institute (ANSI), Underwriters Laboratories (UL), CSA Group (CSA), NSF International (NSF) as well as other national and global organizations.
The Numbers
Most importantly, the generator nameplate contains the basic electrical information that tells you if it will meet your facility’s requirements. Voltage (V), Amperage (A or Amps), Frequency (Hz), Phase (3 or Single) and power in Watts (W, kW, mW) are all imperative values to have when deciding which generator will suit your needs.
Knowing where to find the information on your generator is the first step to making informed buying, selling and operating decisions. Your generator’s nameplate is like a birth certificate, car title and build sheet all in one convenient location. In our next article, we will learn about the generator’s Motor Nameplate, which will delve even further into your unit’s capabilities and limitations.