Kohler Power Systems, Kohler, Wis., has introduced next-generation alternator technology to its 20 to 300 kW generator sets. As of September, the gen-sets incorporate Kohler's Fast-Response III alternator designed to substantially improve performance, installation and maintenance.
"The innovative design of the new Kohler Fast-Response III excitation system provides one of the most powerful and responsive alternators available today," said Mark Repp, vice president of marketing-Kohler Power Systems. "The improved performance translates into superior motor starting and fast response to transient load changes."
Building upon the performance characteristics of the Fast-Response alternator that was first introduced in 1977, Kohler has added a new excitation system that is both powerful and cost-effective, the company said. An auxiliary stator winding that is independent of the main output winding and dedicated solely for field excitation, is key to the new alternator system. It results in a significant power boost to the field, Kohler said, and provides strong recovery during load transients or 250% sustained short-circuit current support for 10 seconds to clear downstream circuit breakers.
The Fast-Response III alternator also features an eight-position terminal block with links for simple voltage reconnection. Load leads may be lugged and bolted directly to the terminal block, eliminating the need for spliced cable connections and providing a much quicker power-connection method, Kohler said. A new and improved voltage regulator with +0.25% average regulation is standard on the new alternator. The encapsulated regulator has over-excitation shutdown, standard VAR/pf control capability, an optional droop kit for paralleling, and on-board diagnostic LEDs. The voltage regulator meets IEC standards for EMI fast transient and surge immunity, and has passed rigorous vibration and harsh-environment tests.
To improve access and maintenance, Kohler has mounted the rotating rectifiers and surge suppressors at the rear of the rotor shaft on this new generation of the Fast-Response alternator.
Kohler Power Systems provides complete power systems, including generators (stationary, mobile and marine), automatic transfer switches, switchgear, monitoring controls, and accessories for emergency, prime power and energy-management applications
