Emergency Electrical Power Supply for Buildings Seminar for Emergency Generator Maintenance and Testing

CAN/CSA-C282-09 A national standard for emergency power in buildings which covers: Design Installation Operation Maintenance

The Fire Code In Alberta, generator installation and maintenance is legislated under the Alberta fire code. The fire code adopts the CSA specification C282-09 “Emergency Power Supply for Buildings.” This specification includes: - Equipment requirements - Installation requirements - Testing & commissioning AND today's subject Operation & maintenance schedules

What Is the Generator for ? Intent: to establish design and operating requirements for on-site generators with connected life-safety loads to assist in safe evacuation of buildings Life safety system examples Emergency lighting Fire alarm & Voice communications Stairwell pressurization fans Fire pumps Fire fighter’s elevator Exit signs dependant on electrical power supplied to the building

Taking Care of Business Other uses (non- C282): UPS back-up (data centre) Critical process manufacturing Residential back-up Peak shaving Co-generation Prime power Telecom

Diesel Fuel Supply A fuel supply shall be maintained on site at all times (minimum 2 hrs @ full load) The fuel supply shall be dedicated for the generator only Multiple generator set systems may have a single main storage tank, provided each engine has its own supply line and day tank with automatic fuel transfer The on-site fuel supply MUST meet current CSA B139 requirements

Operation & Maintenance The generator shall be operated and maintained as per manufacturers recommendations A copy of the owners manual must be available on site A generator test log book must be maintained on site by all who perform service and testing

Weekly Inspections Check Fire Panel for alarms Check all fluid levels Check fuel levels (2 hr min.) Check for leaks Check batteries and cables Check battery charger operation Check block heater(s) Check all belts Check room heater and test emergency light Check cleanliness of room(s) Verify room temperature (+10˚) Ensure generator is in automatic mode Record inspection in logbook Notify monitoring office before turning control panel off

Monthly Inspections and Testing inspect and check all items from weekly maintenance routine Drain exhaust from any condensation Inspect block heater hoses and block heater wiring Test the entire system : “Operational Test” Simulate a failure of the normal power (system test switch) Operate the system under at least 30 % load for 60 min. Operate all transfer switches under load Check for correct operation of all auxiliary systems and equipment Record all operating data and readings in log book

Semi-annual inspections & Maintenance Note: this work requires special skills and must be carried out by a qualified contractor, manufacturer or technician trained / certified by the manufacture Complete all inspection items from “weekly” and “monthly” checks Inspect and clean engine crankcase breathers & linkages Lubricate engine governor and ventilation system Test all protective devices for proper operation (safeties) Test / clean battery(ies), if below 80% - should be replaced Inspect ventilation system (louvers, motors, belts) Record all inspections, tests and corrective actions required

Annual Inspection, Tests and Maintenance Note: this work requires special skills and must be carried out by a qualified contractor, manufacturer or technician trained / certified by the manufacture Complete all inspection & maintenance items from weekly, monthly and semi-annual requirements Control Panel checks Oil & filter change and detailed engine inspection Diesel fuel supply checks Alternator (generator) checks Automatic Transfer Switch inspection 2 hr. load bank test Infrared survey Table 5 review

Table 5 (example of some of the 42 annual checks)

Annual 2 hr. Load bank Test Test the generator @ 100% of its rating for 2 hrs. Disconnect the generator from the building and connect to load bank Ensure the load bank is set-up safely to prevent personal injury and property damage Record all test readings on test report Loadbank access is critical

Annual Infrared Survey Infrared thermometer has been accepted for use by CSA To be conducted during annual load bank test and to include temperature recording of : Control panel connections Generator connections Transfer switch connections

Fuel Storage For fuel oil stored in ANY tank(s), the fuel must annually pass a “clear and bright” test, if the fuel fails this test then: Drain tank, clean and flush tank bottom, then replace with fresh fuel or Full filter or “polish” fuel annually

Fuel Storage If kept clean, cool and dry, diesel fuel can be stored 6 months to 1 year without significant quality degradation. Storage for longer periods can be accomplished through use of periodic filtrations and addition of fuel stabilizers and biocides.

The Effects of “dirty fuel” Damage to diesel engine injectors, fuel pumps, cylinders, piston rings. Damage to fuel tank and lines Liability issues Possible loss of life or property Excessive engine service costs Environmental issues due to dirty exhaust and possible tank leaks Non compliance with CSA 282-09

Every 5 Years (Quinquennial) Note: this work requires special skills and must be carried out by a qualified contractor, manufacturer or technician trained / certified by the manufacture Insulation test or “megger” test generator windings Drain and flush engine cooling system, then refill with new coolant Clean radiator tubes and fins (externally) Replace engine thermostats Inspect valve clearances and adjust as required

C282-15 Changes Test remote alarm signals at fire panel (weekly) Additional verification of battery charger current output when cranking (monthly) Additional inspection requirements for over current devices (annual) Requirements for infrared thermal imaging assessment (Quinquennial)

C282-15 Changes New requirement for permanent connections of temporary test loads including means of disconnect and over current protection. Increased electrical safety and reduction of arc-flash protection requirements Far less “down time” Reduced annual testing costs

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