by Brianna Crandall — April 14, 2014—Caterpillar Inc. has introduced two new 50 Hz extensions of the company’s line of field-proven diesel generator sets specifically configured to offer fuel-efficient power nodes that address the growing demand for backup power in emerging markets.
Available now, the Cat 3516C-HD diesel generator set is rated at 2750 kVA (2200 ekW) for standby and mission-critical applications, while the Cat C32 diesel generator set is now available in a 1250 kVA (1000 ekW) power rating for standby and mission-critical needs. Both generator sets are optimized to minimize fuel costs, reduce lube oil consumption, and extend the time between overhauls.
“Emerging economies are growing and becoming increasingly complex, but in many cases the power grid is not maturing quickly enough to consistently support the critical operations that are fueling economic growth,” said John Swanson, marketing division manager for Caterpillar Electric Power Division. “These two new power nodes offer reliable sources of backup power in packages specially designed for the rapidly growing needs of emerging markets.”
The Cat 3516C-HD diesel generator set leverages a proven four-stroke turbocharged-aftercooled engine platform to offer a power density of 35 kVA/liter. Designed for data centers and other applications that require large amounts of power in a standby configuration, the Cat 3516C-HD package features a 25 percent smaller footprint than comparable engines, allowing for easy integration into existing facilities and preserving valuable floor space for future expansion.
Well suited for healthcare, manufacturing and industrial applications, the Cat C32 diesel generator set employs a four-stroke engine built on the ACERT platform to offer what Caterpillar says is a market-leading power density of 39 kVA/liter in a small 8.9 sq m (96 sq. ft.) footprint. ACERT technology enables Cat engines to achieve maximum performance and efficiency through lower combustion temperatures, reducing emissions and prolonging the life of lighter, more power-dense engine platforms, explains the company. It also varies the injection timing based on factors such as engine load and speed, allowing the engine to maintain optimum performance under a wide range of operating conditions.
Both Cat 3516C-HD and Cat C32 diesel generator sets feature the EMCP 4 control panel, which provides flexible options with a user-friendly interface, combining management and diagnostic tools in one package, while the optional, advanced EMCP 4.4 controller provides multi-generator set paralleling capability. This package is available with a wide range of bolt-on system expansion attachments and flexible packaging options for easy and cost-effective installation.
Both generator sets are configured with the Cat SR5 generator, which is precisely matched to the performance and output characteristics of Cat engines. Offering single-point access to accessory connections, this high-efficiency generator package supplies industry-leading motor starting capabilities, claims Caterpillar.
Cat 3516C-HD and Cat C32 diesel generator sets have an air-to-air after-cooler (ATAAC) cooling system with a radiator core design that condenses the footprint, improves airflow, increases static restriction capability, and lowers transportation costs. This radiator package delivers an industry-leading ambient capability of 50 °C (122 °F), adds the company.
These new generator sets are said to be engineered to ISO 8528-5 transient response requirements, accepting 100 percent rated load in one step.
Caterpillar has been a leader in the power generation marketplace for nearly 90 years, with power systems engineered to deliver “unmatched” durability, reliability and value. The company offers worldwide product support, with parts and service available globally through the Cat authorized service and dealer network. In addition, dealer service technicians are trained to service every aspect of Cat equipment. For more information, visit the Caterpillar Power Generation Resource Center.
