Emergency Circuit Isolation Method; Total Circuit Isolation Method; Grounding The Generator; Generator Ac Neutral Connections - Generac Power Systems Guardian 004992-2 Owner's Manual

Figure 2.1 – Basic Standby Electric System
2.5 EMERGENCY CIRCUIT ISOLATION
METHOD
This prevents overloading the generator by keeping
electrical loads below the wattage/amperage capacity
of the generator. If the generator is powering only crit-
ical loads, within the wattage/amperage capacity, dur-
ing utility power outages, consider using the emer-
gency circuit isolation method.
Critical electrical loads are grouped together and
wired into a separate "Emergency Distribution
Panel." Load circuits powered by that panel are with-
in the wattage/amperage capacity of the generator set.
When this method is used, it is difficult to overload
the generator. The transfer switch must meet the fol-
lowing requirements:
• It must have an ampere rating equal to the total
amperage rating of the emergency distribution
panel circuit.
• Have it installed between the building's main dis-
tribution panel and the emergency distribution
panel.
2.6 TOTAL CIRCUIT ISOLATION
METHOD
When a generator capable of powering all electrical
loads in the circuit is to be installed, use the "Total
Circuit Isolation Method." It is possible for the gener-
ator to be overloaded when this isolation method is
employed. The following apply to the transfer switch
in this type of system.
• Ampere rating of the transfer switch must equal
the ampere rating of the normal incoming utility
service.
• The transfer switch is installed between the utility
service entrance and the building distribution
panel.
• In accordance wtih electrical code, an approved
means of service disconnect must be installed
between the normal incoming utiltiy service
entrance and the transfer switch.
10
Section 2 — Installation
40kW Liquid-cooled Generators
2.7

GROUNDING THE GENERATOR

The National Electrical Code requires the frame and
external electrically conductive parts of this equip-
ment to be properly connected to an approved earth
ground and/or grounding rods. For that purpose, a
GROUND LUG (Figure 2.2) is provided on the gener-
ator mounting base. Consult a qualified electrician
for grounding requirements in the area. Grounding
procedures must meet local regulations.
DANGER
Do not connect the ground wire to any pipe
that carries a flammable or explosive substance
– FIRE or an EXPLOSION may result.
Proper grounding helps protect personnel against
electrical shock in the event of a ground fault condi-
tion in the generator or in connected electrical
devices. In addition, grounding helps dissipate static
electricity that often builds up in ungrounded
devices.
Figure 2.2 – Generator Grounding Lug (typical)
2.8 GENERATOR AC NEUTRAL
CONNECTIONS
The manufacturer uses an UNGROUNDED AC neu-
tral. Grounding is recommended only at the main
service entrance. If the neutral wire is grounded and
one of the phase loads becomes grounded, the exces-
sive current opens the load circuit breaker or col-
lapses the generator field. The actual result depends
on the electrical characteristics of the particular
installed generator.
Failure to connect the generator neutral prop-
!
erly will result in unbalanced line-to-neutral
voltages. Resulting high voltages will cause
equipment damage.
GROUNDING
LUG