The generation game

9 August 2010



IWP&DC looks at Atlas Copco’s latest developments in generation technology


New from Atlas Copco is the QAS 500 generating set which offers dual frequency operation rated at 500kVA at 50Hz (571kVA at 60Hz). It also has noise reduction and environmental protection features for continuous on-site power in industrial, public utilities and construction applications.

The QAS range, comprising a wide variety of models rated between 14–571kVA has been designed for fast, easy and safe transportation and on-site handling on virtually any unprepared surface.

Housed in a noise attenuated enclosure made from zinc plated steel and painted with powder coating paint, the QAS 500 meets a sound power level (LWA) of 99 dB(A) at 50Hz; making it suitable for applications in noise sensitive areas. The enclosure also provides optimum resistance against corrosion ensuring that it remains in good condition and retains an improved resale value, says the company.

An integrated lifting structure on the enclosure has been designed contributes to the total sturdiness of the set to ensure safe and efficient handling. It is positioned in the centre point of gravity for correct balancing and is dimensioned to support at least four times the maximum weight without breaking.

The integration of forklift slots also saves time and facilitates safe and efficient handling and transportation. Well placed fixation points ensure safe transportation around the construction site, while integrated bumpers protect the enclosure against mechanical impact during transportation and handling.

The frame is also a 110% containment base for all the necessary liquids such as oil, coolant and fuel.

Ease of maintenance

Large access doors allow easy access to all service points and the generator components; making any preventative maintenance and repairs faster and easier.

External drain points are positioned to allow easy and efficient draining of oil, coolant and fuel with minimised risk of environmental spillage. Special drain points are also fitted to allow the fuel tank to be cleaned and water removed from the base frame; once again with minimal environmental impact.

A 905 litre standard fuel tank, positioned in the centre of the base frame ensures continuous operation at full load for a complete shift.

The new QAS 500 features a dedicated compartment for the electrical cubicle making it safe to access even when ‘running.’ Isolating the electrical components from the engine compartment provides reduced vibration and temperature impact on the more sensitive electrical components.

An industrial type B-curve, four-pole main circuit breaker safeguards the alternator against external short circuits by an instantaneous trip three to five times the nominal current. All main circuit breakers fitted in the QAS range are Omnipolar – an essential feature for compatibility with the different configurations of customers’ applications.

Fail safe protection

Critical engine parameters such as oil temperature, oil pressure and coolant temperature are monitored by means of a failsafe system. Should a sensor or transducer fail, the system automatically shuts down to avoid any damage to the engine.

A dual stage fuel filter with integrated water separator and a heavy duty dual stage air filtration system ensure longer service intervals and increased engine life and up-time. An extra safety cartridge filter element allows air filter replacement during operation.

Generator control, protection and monitoring are provided with a local or remote start digital control module (Qc1002). Fitted as standard, the system is ideal for all automatic controlled applications. All Qc controllers are equipped with external communication protocols prepared to support the Cosmos option for satellite monitoring.

The Qc4002 controller is available as an option for multi start paralleling operations. As a standard, this controller is equipped with PMS (Power Management system), that enables the user to save fuel and to extend the life time of the engine.

Fulfilling demands

To fulfil the demand in the market for 800kVA, Atlas Copco has upgraded its QAC 750 to the QAC 800.

The new QAC 800 delivers 800kVA of prime power at 50Hz to meet increasing demands from generator users in the market. The QAC series generators are built to withstand the most extreme temperatures, and are designed to work in all weather conditions. A built-in engine coolant heater ensures quick and easy start-up in cold conditions, while a variable speed electric cooling fan allows continuous operation in higher temperature environments, as in desert environments.

Designed with safety in mind, all QAC series generators have a four-pole main motorised circuit breaker, providing overload and short circuit protection, an emergency stop, automatic engine alarms and shut-downs.

The double skinned and removable fuel tank with leakage sensors and spillage free frame construction prevents accidental engine fluids or fuel spills, eliminating the risk of any ground pollution.

Easily handled by crane, lift or truck, the robust 20ft CSC ISO container enclosure has lockable wide opening doors so that all components are always within reach, ensuring that maintenance and service is both easy and stress free.

The innovative dual compartment design - with the engine/alternator compartment separated from the cooler compartment - ensures maximum efficiency while operating in the most extreme conditions. With the separated power cubicle, opposite to the control cubicle, a safer operation is achieved.

The state-of-the-art Atlas Copco Qc 4002 control panel includes features such as an LCD screen with numerous read-outs, warnings and shutdowns – all displayed in various local languages. Applications from ‘Island operation’ and ‘Automatic Mains Failure’ to the most complicated paralleling operations such as ‘Load sharing,’ and ‘Base load’ operations, are done with this single, high-tech generator controller.

This multi-purpose control system makes the QAC series generator an easy-to-operate machine, offering a single solution to varying applications, says the company.


Atlas Copco QAC 800 Atlas Copco QAC 800


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