Tag Archive for: Genesal Energy

We supplied an emergency genset with an aseismatic system for the Carrasco electrical substation (Bolivia)

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Guaranteeing power supply in extreme situations is one of Genesal Energy’s specialties. Genesal’s emergency genset designs are always carried out according to the client’s needs.

The Carrasco electrical substation, in Cochabamba (Bolivia), is one of our latest projects in the country and a great example of seismic engineering.

For the Carrasco substation, the client needed a genset with very specific needs, as the installation is located in a very sensitive area, which is quite vulnerable to earthquakes. With the objective of facing this possibility and avoiding a catastrophe, our engineering team carried out a thorough study after listening to the client and analyzing the site in which the genset would be installed.

Upon receiving all required information, Genesal Energy manufactured a very precise genset, with all the necessary special systems to protect the Carrasco electrical substation. The result is a unit which, amongst other features, has anti-seismic mounts, and spring mounts between the base frame and the floor. A vent for the channelling of the cooling air to the outside, and a 1.700 litre fuel tank -which in this case was reinforced to comply with anti-seismic regulations- are just a few examples of the features of this genset, whose goal is to avoid failures in the mains supply which provides power to millions of citizens, at all times.

Features

  • Anti-seismic mounts.
  • Spring mounts between the baseframe and the floor.
  • Vent for the channelling of the output cooling air to the outside.
  • Reinforced 1700 litre baseframe fuel to comply with anti-seismic regulations (without certificate).
  • IVECO NEF67 TE2A engine at 24V.
  • Mecc Alte ECO 38-2S alternator at a voltage of 380/220.
  • 3400×1350 mm soundproof canopy.
  • RAL 9002 genset colour.
  • IEC61850 communication.

Genesal Energy consolidates its position in the health sector with high precision gensets for large hospitals

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The Galician company increases its national presence with emergency gensets for the new hospitals in Cuenca and Guadalajara.

The design of highly reliable gensets, which allow to continue tending to patients even in the event of a mains failure, is of maximum priority when it comes to supplying emergency gensets to any hospital, and this is a field in which Genesal Energy has reinforced its presence in recent years both nationally and internationally. The very nature of these facilities calls for customised units, and behind each one is a complex engineering development.

The Galician company has consolidated its presence in Spain through new projects carried out hand in hand with Imoel, a company which has specialised in the electricity sector for over 35 years, and which has trusted in Genesal since 2009 for delicate projects such as the expansion of the Guadalajara hospital, where it will supply two 1,500/1,650 kVA gensets, and Cuenca’s new hospital, which while still in its construction phase, will be a magnificent hospital complex with 12 buildings for which Genesal Energy was in charge of designing, manufacturing and supplying three 1,400/1,540 kVA emergency gensets.

Maximum reliability

Both hospitals will include soundproof gensets which were completely tailor-made for the client, and therefore, adapted to the requirements of the buildings in which they will be installed, completely prepared to face any potential incident.

In this sense, all five gensets have a common denominator: to guarantee power supply at all times, as in hospital complexes, any failure in the mains supply can cause serious problems, both for the medical equipment -which nowadays is highly technological, especially in emergency and operating rooms- and the patients alike.

A reference company, both nationally and internationally

Genesal Energy’s participation in these projects is part of the company’s major focus on the health sector, where it’s increased its presence in recent years both nationally and internationally, through the supply of emergency power to hospitals such as the Quito-Sur Hospital, the largest and most modern in Ecuador, a country in which the Galician company is one of th reference brands.

Technical article. Gas vs Diesel

Diesel vs. Natural Gas Generators: Key Differences and Use Cases

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Technical article. Gas VS Diesel

The two most common generator types on the market are diesel engine powered generators and those using gas powered engines.

Apart from the fuel powering them, they have other distinctive qualities which make them more or less adequate according to the use we want to give them.

Let’s see what they are.

Note: In this article, “gas” refers to natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), not gasoline (petrol). These are commonly used in gas-powered generators, not to be confused with petrol-fueled engines.

Diesel generators

The reliability of a classic

For quite a long time, diesel engine generators have been a standard in the market. Their good reputation was the result of a great flexibility of application, both in industrial and household areas, as well as their robustness and reliability.

This type of generator may be used as a main power supply, as well as for co-generation or emergency applications. They are fully autonomous and may, therefore, function in places which have absolutely no power-supplying networks.

What advantages have made diesel generators so popular?

  • They are more easily disassembled and installed than gas units, making their installation wherever needed a simpler task, while also using a fuel which is easily accessible and more economical than gasoline.
  • They are robust and sustainable, capable of ensuring many hours of yearly operation.
  • Diesel fuel gives high efficiency to the equipment using it because it burns at a much higher temperature than gasoline.
  • Diesel fuel is also very safe because it is less flammable than other types of fuel.

The main disadvantage of this type of generator, as in the case of any machinery which includes a diesel engine, is that it causes high levels of polluting gas emissions. Therefore, the present day diesel generators incorporate an additional antiparticle filtration system that ensures its conformity with the legislation in force.

Natural gas powered generators

Clean and economical energy

Gas engine generators have gained much popularity due to their great reliability, cost efficiency and sustainability.

This type of generator can be used as a primary power source, in co-generation applications or as an emergency source and its engine may be fuelled by liquefied natural gas (LNG) or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The latter is a gaseous fuel obtained from the distillation of oil.

Generators powered by LNG fuelled engines get their fuel from the natural gas distribution network, whereas LPG fuelled generators are connected to a tank which will have to be periodically refuelled.

What are the benefits of natural gas powered generators?

  • They are more respectful of the environment, because the gas causes less emission than other non-renewable fuels (such as coal, diesel or gasoline).
  • They are economical, because gas is the most affordable fuel, second only to coal (which is not an option due to its high emission level).
  • They are high-efficiency generators in co-generation applications.
  • When fuelled by an underground natural gas network, the fuel supply is not conditioned by inclement weather or problems with the communication infrastructure (which do condition diesel generators that need periodic refuelling).
  • They are highly compatible and easy-to-use units, given that it is possible to install them in remote locations, using high capacity tanks.
  • They are very quiet generators.

Among the disadvantages of this type of generator, one must consider the following:

  • Liquefied natural gas (LNG) powered generators are less autonomous than diesel engine ones because it is absolutely necessary to connect them to a distribution network.
  • In the case of LNG equipment connected to the network, one has to take into account that any catastrophe or natural disaster can affect the supply system.
  • Gas is an exceptionally flammable fuel and entails a bigger fire hazard than diesel.
  • The engine and control system are much more demanding, which can result in the product’s final price being higher.
  • They require a more punctual and complex maintenance.

Diesel vs Gas Generators: Which One Should You Choose?

Deciding between a diesel or gas-powered generator requires careful consideration of various factors. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that make them suitable for different applications and environments. Here are the key factors to consider:

1. Application and Usage

  • Primary Power Source: If you need a generator for continuous operation, such as in remote locations without a power grid, diesel generators are often preferred due to their robustness and fuel efficiency.
  • Emergency Backup: Both diesel and gas generators can serve as reliable backup power sources. However, gas generators, especially those connected to a natural gas line, can provide uninterrupted fuel supply during emergencies without the need for refueling.

2. Environmental Impact

  • Emissions: Gas generators produce fewer emissions compared to diesel generators, making them a more environmentally friendly option. This can be a critical factor if you are concerned about meeting stringent environmental regulations or minimizing your carbon footprint.
  • Noise Levels: Gas generators are generally quieter than diesel generators, which can be important in residential areas or locations where noise pollution is a concern.

3. Fuel Availability and Cost

  • Fuel Costs: Diesel fuel is typically more expensive than natural gas, but it provides higher energy efficiency, which can offset the cost over time.
  • Fuel Supply: Gas generators connected to a natural gas line have a continuous fuel supply, whereas diesel generators require regular refueling. However, in areas without natural gas infrastructure, diesel may be the more practical choice.

4. Maintenance and Longevity

  • Maintenance Requirements: Diesel generators are known for their durability and lower maintenance needs. Gas generators, while efficient, often require more frequent and complex maintenance due to the nature of the fuel and engine.
  • Lifespan: Diesel generators tend to have a longer operational lifespan, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run for high-demand applications.

5. Safety Considerations

  • Flammability: Natural gas is highly flammable, posing a greater fire hazard compared to diesel. Diesel fuel, being less volatile, is considered safer to store and handle.
  • Reliability: In situations where natural disasters might disrupt gas supply lines, diesel generators offer greater reliability as they can operate independently of external fuel supply networks.

What About Gasoline Generators?

In some markets, especially in North America, “gas-powered generator” often refers to gasoline-fueled engines. While these are common for small portable generators, this article focuses on natural gas and LPG-powered equipment, typically used in industrial and backup applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between a diesel and a natural gas generator?

Diesel generators run on diesel fuel and are known for their durability, fuel efficiency, and high performance in demanding environments. Natural gas generators use either piped natural gas (LNG) or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), offering lower emissions and quieter operation.

2. Which generator is more efficient, diesel or natural gas?

Diesel generators are typically more fuel-efficient and better suited for continuous use or high-load applications. However, natural gas generators may offer better cost efficiency in areas with existing gas infrastructure.

3. Are natural gas generators more environmentally friendly than diesel?

Yes. Natural gas generators produce significantly fewer emissions, including NOx and particulate matter, making them a more environmentally friendly choice compared to diesel generators.

4. Can a natural gas generator run during a power outage?

Yes, especially if it’s connected to a natural gas grid. These generators can provide uninterrupted fuel supply during emergencies without the need for manual refueling—unlike diesel units.

5. What are the maintenance differences between diesel and gas generators?

Diesel generators require less frequent maintenance and are generally easier to service. Gas generators may require more specialized maintenance due to their fuel system and engine complexity.

6. Which type of generator lasts longer?

Diesel generators usually have a longer lifespan thanks to their robust design and lower engine RPMs. They’re ideal for intensive use and long-term reliability.

Conclusion

Choosing the right generator depends on your specific needs and circumstances. At Genesal Energy, we understand that every project is unique. Our experts are here to help you assess your requirements and recommend the best solution tailored to your needs. Whether you prioritize environmental impact, fuel efficiency, or operational reliability, we provide comprehensive guidance to ensure you make an informed decision.

For personalized advice and more information, please contact us at:

consultas@genesal.com +34 900 730 124

Remote management, added value in Genesal Energy’s Technical Support Service

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Remote management and SAT

Our Technical Support Service closed 2019 with sustained growth and the modernization of its vehicle fleet, which incorporates the latest ergonomic improvements.

Guaranteeing the reliability of our gensets and offering the best customer service are the pillars of Genesal Energy’s Techical Support Service, which in the last years has grown spectacularly. Our Technical Support Service is our maintenance, installation and reparation service which offers specialized attention with a clear objective: to achieve the best performance of the equipment to fully comply with the client’s needs.

“We’re a reference company when it comes to remote management and multi-brand service”, Marga González, Technical Support Manager, explains, adding that predictive maintenance (remote management and supervision system) has turned the Galician company in a reference company, both nationally and internationally, in the detection of possible breakdowns as well as the status of any unit through a stationary or mobile internet connection. Adjustments are also carried out remotely, impacting action time directly “as it is reduced considerably”, the area manager points out.

Comfort and security

More than 30 professionals form this business line which last year closed its accounts with a sustained growth in maintenance and has modernized its vehicle fleet through the incorporation of the market’s latest ergonomic improvements in order to avoid staff fatigue and make their job more comfortable. “We don’t consider it an expense, but an investment in quality for the peace of mind of our clients and employees. It’s a win-win”, says Marga González.

Their own load banks and a 24 hour service are the hallmark of Genesal Energy’s Technical Support Service. “Knowledge and innovation allow us to provide exclusive and personalized solutions, tailor-made for our clients”, says González.

Case Studies

The update of four gensets for an important television network has been one of Genesal Energy’s Technical Support Service’s latest projects. In this case, the existing controllers for parallel operation were substituted for three state-of-the-art control panels, and new circuit breakers were installed.

Our Technical Support team also carried out the update of the genset fleet of the substations of an important global electrical company in order to carry out predictive maintenance works. For this project, the substitution of more that 30 control panels, communication cards, pressure, temperature and fuel sensors were carried out in record time in order to comply with the client’s needs.

Another succesful project consisted in the study of the Modbus mapping of the genset fleet of an important telecommunications company to integrate the predictive maintenance of its units into its management and remote control system. For its execution, Genesal Energy analyzed almost a hundred mappings according to the features of each piece of equipment, their operation, environmental factors, climate…

Find out more about our maintenance service

Click!

We continue to reinforce our presence in the Middle East

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Oman has inmense potential in the field of renewable energies, especially solar and wind.

One of our latest projects in this country consisted in the supply of a 500 kVA made-to-measure generator set for a great wind farm.

It’s designed to operate in parallel with the mains, to withstand elevated temperatures and to guarantee the farm’s auxiliary services based on the characteristics of the site itself, installation and operation. At Genesal Energy, we’re able to grow in the Middle East thanks to new projects in countries such as Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

Features

  • Generator set prepared to operate in parallel with the mains, equipped with a motorized thermal-magnetic breaker for the genset.
  • Alternator with Class B temperature rise and anti-condensation heating.
  • 800L fuel tank integrated in the base frame with leakage tray.
  • Independent, approved, double-walled 4000L with an automatic fuel transfer system.
  • Neutral earthing resistor to limit the earth fault current.
  • Control panel heating system.

We’re in Austria, the demanding Central European market

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100-110 kVA genset to be mounted on a trailer in Austria, for the genset fleet of an important telecommunications company.

Features

  • Engine compliant with mobile genset exhaust gas emission standards.
  • Prepared to operate in island mode as well as in parallel with mains.
  • 425L baseframe fuel tank integrated into the soundproof canopy, with leakage collection tray.
  • Air and exhaust gas outlets adapted to the client’s needs to fit with the genset room’s layout.
  • Mains breaker (ATS system) integrated into the genset’s control panel.

Supply of two generator sets for a solar power plant

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Another achievement by our distributors.

We’ve supplied two gensets of 220 and 462 kVA, 220-127Vac at 60Hz, prepared to operate under CFE norms according to the degree of seismicity in Mexico as well as the area’s semitropical characteristics.

With a capacity of 170 MW, the Santiago photovoltaic power plant is located in the state of San Luis Potosí (México). It’s a large complex, whose construction began in 2017 with the participation of 1.000 workers. The power plant was built with the idea of supplying enough electricity to power 138.000 homes.  

Its 672.000 solar panels turn the Santiago power plant into one of the largest renewable energy installations in terms of investment (250 million dollars) and also one of the most spectacular, not only in regards to its size (it occupies 750 hectares), but also to the results its expected to achieve: it was built with the objective of preventing the emission of 340.000 tons of CO2 into the atmosphere each year.

The Galician company Genesal Energy participated in this megaproject through the design and supply of two generator sets of 220 and 462 kVA, 220-127 Vac at 60 Hz, prepared to operate in the area’s special conditions, such as the semitropical climate.

Both units were manufactured in Genesal Energy’s headquarters, located in the town of Bergondo, in A Coruña (Spain), with the goal of guaranteeing the correct operation of the booster and switching substations during emergency situations, providing the power necessary for the auxiliary services, emergency lighting, etc.

Genesal Generator in a solar power plant

High precision

Both gensets are high precision units, whose design has been thought out to the very last detail to comply with the client’s requests. They have the following features:

The first unit (GEN220FC) is soundproof type and has a 500 L fuel tank integrated in its baseframe, while the second (GEN462F) has a 1.000 L fuel tank. Both special gensets comply with all technical requirements established by CFE (Comisión Federal de Electricidad or Federal Electricity Commission) norms, the prestigious certification that the CFE awards and which elevates the company to the category of trusted supplier.

The CFE-LAPEM certification is granted by the LAPEM (Laboratory for Equipment and Materials Testing), an organization dependent on the CFE, and Genesal Energy received said distinction last year upon passing the audit process carried out by LAPEM in the company’s headquarters, thus becoming part of the select group of companies which have been awarded this certification, a true symbol of excellence.

Features

  • GEN220FC 500L fuel tank integrated into the base frame, Soundproof type, and with technical features following CFE (Federal Electricity Commission of Mexico) standards, painting with finish according to CFE norms.
  • GEN462F Approved 1000L double-wall fuel tank for external installation, with technical features following CFE (Federal Electricity Commission of Mexico) standards, painting with finish according to CFE norms.

 

Made to measure energy solution for the Almaraz Nuclear Power Plant

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Both the reactors at the Almaraz Nucelar Power Plant in Caceres (the oldest in Spain) supply 7% of the nations energy demands.

The plant is located in an area know as Ribera del Rio Tajo, and they have recently placed their trust in GENESAL ENERGY to design an emergency back up generator set capable of dealing with any potential incident.


The project consisted in designing, building, installing and commissioning a genset capable of supplying a 110kVA of power to supply energy to the Individual Temporary Storage (ITS), which alongside the fuel pools, allow for temporary storage of used combustibles from the reactors in the event of a power failure.

Genesal has designed a soundproofed genset inside a 20ft container with an interior control room configured for automatic start up. The bench frame incorporates a 700 litre fully bunded fuel tank, providing the genset with up to 25 hours autonomy. The genset has been specially designed to work at 45°C as well as resist seismic movements, in order to comply with security norms.

To meet with the client’s specific needs the genset was designed with an independent control room and power output with various local controls to manage the genset and other parts of the installation.

Load bank

In the switchgear output of the grid/genset, switches are fitted for each area of the ITS in the power plant. Each one can close or open via pushbuttons or using a pre-programmed sequence designed by the client.

For the correct functionality of the genset, a separate room within the container was built to hold a resistive load bank which is connected to the genset output always and when the load is less than 40% of its maximum capacity. This allows for fuel use optimization and prolongs the lifetime of the genset (normally a genset is recommended to work at 70/80% of its maximum).

The load bank can connect to the genset manually via pushbutton for maintenance work. It is also important to highlight the implementation of signals exchange in the Distributed Control System (DCS) of the power plant, for example the state of switchgear, of the genset and a measurement of zero return to detect grounding failure in the installation.

Emergency Power for Phosphates Treatment Plant in El Jadida, Morocco

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The project has been designed for one of the most important companies in the engineering and constructin sector, with headquarters in Marseille (France).

Situated 80KM south of Casablanca and 17Km from El Jadida is the Jorf Lasar industrial complex, a phosphates treatment plant which Genesal Energy has supplied with 3 specially designed gensets for emergency back-up.

The plant whose installations cover an area of 1,700 hectares began its production in 1986 and its numbers are quite impressive: the recuperation of 2 million tonnes annually of P2O5 in the form of phosphorus acid.

Genesal Energy has supplied this elaborate facility in Morocco with a genset island comprising of identical generators for outdoor use (3 units at 400V/50Hz containerised with a control system) designed to work in parallel or if necessary individually. Five circuit breakers make up the switchgear.

In detail

As with every project undertaken by Genesal, the control system designed for this phosphate treatment plant was managed to the tiniest detail:

  • If the gensets are operational, they can be synchronised, either with the output switch of each genset or with the coupling point, therefore reducing the number of movements required by the switches in case of changes in the operational format.
  • If a generator is stopped, the circuit breaker is disabled to avoid damage from unwanted power inputs from external busbars
  • If the client has not indicated that a connection panel should receive an electrical feed, the incoming power cabinet circuit breaker will not be permitted to close (not even manually), in order to avoid short circuits caused by external voltage not from the actual genset island.

We are involved in the extension of the Los Azufres plant in Mexico, which obtains renewable energy from the centre of the earth.

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The genset supplied by Genesal Energy is ready to power the critical loads at2,856 M above sea level, where the plant is situated.

Geotherm is a renewable energy source which is generated by the heat expanding from the core of the earth. Currently, Mexico is one of the most advanced countries in this field, and in Los Azufres the country’s second largest reserve also one of the biggest in the world is found (the largest in Mexico being in the state of Baja California).

The Los Azufres power plant is located in the state of Michoacan, 250 KM from the capital Mexico City. Due to the potential of this energy source, the Federal Commission for Electricity has driven the construction of Los Azufres III-Phase 2 expansion, with a net capacity guarantee of 25MW. This will be focused on supplying power to the Michoacan cities of Hidalgo and Zinapecauro. The objective is to ensure a stable and renewable supply for the ever-increasing energy demands in the region.

Genesal Energy has supplied emergency back up power for the plant, a made to measure generator set, very different to standard gensets, in that it can operate at almost 3000M above sea level.

The generator set, was the result of an exhaustive study detailing all the technical requirements of the project. Various aspects were analysed such as the conditions the genset would be working in, as well as calculating the loads it would support and the load steps in order to determine the most adequate engine and alternator.

The role of the new generator set in the Los Azufres Geothermal Plant is to supply power to the critical (essential) loads in the case of a mains grid power failure, with the objective of bringing the power plant to a safe shutdown and not a sudden stop. This is achieved using an Automatic Transfer System (ATS) to switch the power from the mains to the genset.

Some other interesting facts about this Project

  • The control panel was designed to a very specific specification, which was supplied by the client’s engineers – requiring a control cabinet with a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and a Siemens Siplus touchscreen.
  • The control panel and the entire genset installation has been prepared to work in an environment with a high concentration of H2S (sulphuric acid – a gas which is heavier than air, inflammable and colourless). To protect against H2S and for easy maintenance all the PLC cards are covered with an acrylic based plastic. Additionally, the connectors on the cards and where they connect are gold plated to withstand a permanent concentration of 3mmm of H2S gas.
  • It comes with a Modbus tcp/ip card and a fibre optic converter via a manageable switch with two fibre optic ports to create a fibre optic ring and guarantee continued communications.
  • As well as communication, the most important signals are sent wired. This ensures all the genset information is stored in the Scada system in the DCS of the geothermal plant, and total control via SCADA.