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Process Locomotives As Standby Power Generators: |
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Many plants spend many tens of thousands of dollars on standby generators in case of a power outage. These may only be needed a few hours each year. A process locomotive can be used as standby generators for plants that require standby power if the unit is equipped with the standby power option. It can generate 460/3/60 VAC power using the main alternator. An output for a typical 600 HP diesel engine would be: 600 BHP engine with 10% accessory losses net HP 540 VA = 540 HP x 0.746 KVA/HP x .82 (mechanical efficency) = 330 KVA For a 905 BHP engine the output would be approximately 550 KVA For a 2000 BHP engine the output would be approximately 1,220 KVA |
| In order to provide this power the locomotive must be parked and connected by a cable to a disconnect switch mounted next to the locomotive. The option package includes the switch gear and controls on the locomotive to make switching over a simple task. The point of standby power is that it much be available on very short notice. Therefore the task of switching over must be limited to parking the locomotive, connecting one end of the cable to the locomotive, and operating some switches. The whole thing should take less than about five to ten minutes once the locomotive is parked. |
| Of course the plant looses the use of the locomotive during the power outage but the plant can continue to operate critical components and store production until the power is back on. There may be more than one location in a plant that needs standby power. If the locomotive service the area then the odds are that there is probably a good place to park the locomotive for this purpose in each area. Granted the standby power option is not needed in most locations but there are a few end users whom could find this option very useful. |