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WHAT DOES A GENERATOR CONTROL PANEL DO?

The generator control panel can essentially be seen as the user interface that allows operators to control the generator, as well as check on system diagnostics, overall functions, and current status of a generator. Generators are heavy pieces of machinery and like all heavy equipment, can be prone to overheating, fluctuations in speed, and can suffer from everyday wear & tear, engine fatigue, or be affected by ambient temperatures and climate. Critical functions include protecting your generator’s engine by monitoring oil pressure, coolant temperature, and automatically shutdown the generator engine to prevent irreparable or costly damage.

HOW DOES A GENERATOR CONTROL PANEL WORK?

Generator control panels contain a microprocessor that can process and manipulate input from sensors to help provide feedback to the genset to monitor itself and manage any processes that come about. A common feedback setting would be temperature. When the generator engine begins to reach temperatures meet or exceed to temperature sensor setting, the generator could be prompted to shutdown automatically to prevent damage.

Generator control panels are often paired together with an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS). An ATS will prompt the generator to kick in seconds within the event of power loss due to power outage. Once power is restored from the main power grid, the generator will be prompted to shut off, as service from the main grid will resume. This is simply due to the fact that because the ATS is connected to the main grid, the ATS can detect an outage and signal the control panel to start the generator without the need to manually start the generator.

Without an ATS (Automatic Transfer Switch), you will need staff on-site to manually flip the switch on the generator controls to run the generator in the event of a power outage and must also manually turn off the generator once power is restored. Failure to turn off the generator after power to the main grid is restored can cause an effect called back feeding, which can be lethal to any electricians that are working on the power lines.

POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF GENERATOR CONTROL PANELS

Generator control panels offer a variety of benefits, including：

Error elimination: A generator control panel helps eliminate operating errors.

Increased efficiency: Improved generator control can help your generator run more efficiently.

Improved safety: Current and volt supervision support safer operation.

Fewer costs: Enhanced generator control will help lower generator upgrade frequency as well as maintenance and operation costs.

Enhanced reliability: Being able to monitor generator function and perform event analysis can yield insight on making your generator more reliable.