What happens when one generator isn’t enough to meet your power requirements?
Rather than relying on one oversised generator, generator synchronisation allows multiple generators to operate together as a single power system.
Also known as generator paralleling, this provides additional capacity, flexibility and resilience for demanding applications.
What Is Generator Synchronisation?
Generator synchronisation is the process of safely connecting multiple generator sets so they can operate in parallel and share the electrical load.
Before generators can be connected, their voltage, frequency, phase sequence and phase angle must be matched. A synchronisation control system monitors these conditions and manages the process automatically.
Once synchronised, the generators can work together to supply the required power.
Why Use Parallel Generators?
There are several reasons why a parallel generator system can be more suitable than a single generator.
Increased capacity: Multiple generators can combine their output to provide a higher overall power capacity.
Improved resilience: If one generator is unavailable, the remaining units can potentially continue supplying power, depending on the system design.
Flexible load sharing: The electrical load can be distributed between generators, allowing the system to respond to changing power demands.
Future expansion: Additional generators can potentially be integrated as a site’s power requirements increase.
Where Are Synchronised Generators Used?
Synchronised generators are particularly useful for applications where reliable, high-capacity power is essential.
Common applications include:
Data centres
Healthcare facilities
Manufacturing sites
Construction projects
Telecommunications
Critical infrastructure
Parallel generators can provide both standby power and prime power, depending on the requirements of the site.
What Equipment Is Required?
A typical synchronised generator system may include multiple generator sets, synchronisation panels, generator controllers, switchgear and Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS).
These components work together to control the generators, distribute the electrical load and protect the wider electrical system.
Because every project is different, the system needs to be properly designed around the site’s power requirements, load profile and redundancy requirements.
Bespoke Generator Solutions from Lance Power
At Lance Power, we supply industrial generators and bespoke power solutions, including systems designed for generator synchronisation and parallel operation.
From a single standby generator to a complete multi-generator power system, we can help specify a solution around your requirements.
Need a synchronised generator system? Get in touch with Lance Power to discuss your project.