Ingersoll Rand holds press event to introduce new technologies
At the Power-Gen International conference and exhibition, Ingersoll Rand announced the recent development of an independent power sector. The sector will help the company focus resources, and distributed power, portable power, and power management will be major business focuses. The company also introduced two new technologies, the GenPowerSource generator series and the new PowerWorks microturbine line.
The GenPowerSource generator line
This line of generators totals 24 different models, including more than seven package sizes and ranges from portable units to large, back-up power generators. All units are 4-pole brushless units, equipped with an analog control panel. This panel includes features such as key start switch, an emergency stop button, diagnostic warning lights that consist of low oil pressure, high water temp, and no charge alternator indicator.
According to Rita Moore, marketing manager for electrical products and portable power, "Ingersoll Rand is providing solutions for alternative and on-site power distribution for the world." Moore said that the world is operating at either 50 or 60 Hz. Earlier this year, the company introduced 17 50-Hz generators. At the conference, the company introduced 18 more models to the 60-Hz markets of the world, for a total of 35 new generators models introduced this year.
The G17-G34 generators include EC hard-wired terminals with easy wire insert, and plastic dividers that separate terminals to avoid contact. Each unit has an easily replaceable air filter located inside the enclosure and a water separator to protect the engine from water-contaminated fuel.
G50-G192 units are equipped with a voltage-selector-switch that eliminates the need for generator wiring or link-board reconnections. Simultaneous single- and three-phase power is available through hardwire terminals with 120 volts available in all the voltage-selector switch positions. An external emergency stop button provides immediate unit shutdown when depressed in the event of an emergency. The unit will shutdown and the engine will be prevented from cranking to inhibit any current flow.
The G225 to G563 units have a standard engine oil drain pump and a built-in stepladder. Fuel tanks are equipped with a water separator to protect the engine from contaminated fuel.
The PowerGenSource series also includes 15 high-end units with a prime output of 50kVA to 563kVA. Depending on the model, these units are powered by either a John Deere or Volvo engine. Each generator is equipped with the Intellysis control panel, which includes frequency and voltage readings, multiple language readouts, simultaneous information display, and a memory that records up to 25 actions for easy troubleshooting. The Intellysis system also features easy-to-read diagnostics, including low oil pressure, high coolant temperature, low coolant temperature, low fuel level, and overload alert.
The line also includes compact units, comprised of the G3.5, G5, G7, G8, G10, and G11, each powered by a Vanguard or Mitsubishi engine. These units are designed to fill a niche in construction and rental markets. Delivering between 3,500 and 11,000 watts of power, the series provides solutions for contractors and homeowners. Tools can be changed out quickly with the conveniently located outlet receptacle. Many of the units are outfitted with multiple size receptacles for versatility. The generators also have a sound rating as low as 73dBa measured at 23 ft., and all include overload protection. The lightest unit is the G3.5, weighing only 97 lb. Optional wheel and handle kits make the generators easily transportable.
An optional trailer is available for the entire GenPowerSource series. These trailers are designed to allow the generator to be quickly secured for transportation and are equipped with an additional fuel cell that provides up to 24 hours of run time.
Ingersoll Rand plans to provide customers with a single-point solution for their service needs. Moore said, "Customers work with one source for product, service, and support needs. Our dealers will be certified to support this product bumper-to-bumper, for not only the engine but the alternator and all components of the package."
The PowerWorks microturbine line
Ingersoll Rand is currently in the process of commercializing the PowerWorks microturbine systems. The microturbine generates electricity for base consumption or peak shaving, while providing heat for other applications, such as hot water. It can also be integrated into mechanical-drive application, such as compressed air, refrigeration, and air conditioning equipment.
According to Jim Watts, marketing manager for the PowerWorks line, the company's alpha units went operational in August. Beta units were shipped out for field testing in early November. The units are expected to be available to consumers in the second half of 2001, Watts said.
The microturbines will be marketed as a power source for supermarkets, small-industrial factories, hotels, schools, utilities, hospitals, office buildings, and multifamily homes.
The system's patented recuperator captures energy that would be lost in the exhaust. It is engineered to enable the microturbine to deliver electricity at an efficiency of up to 33%, withstand repeated engine cycling, and reach full power quickly.
The system's two-shaft engine is engineered to operate for 8,000 consecutive hours without maintenance. The system has a target 80,000-hour engine life, approximately 10 years, under typical around-the-clock operating conditions. It also features a patented low-emission combustor, which meets certain stringent environmental regulations, such as California emission standards.
"IR PowerWorks microturbine systems will soon play a key role in meeting the increased demand for reliable power and provide a more efficient way to use energy," said Watts.
For more information on the GenPowerSource line, contact Ingersoll Rand at 501 Sanford Ave., PO Box 868, Mocksville, NC 27028, Tel: 336-751-6406, Fax: 336-751-1819, or visit www.ingersoll-rand.com.
For more information on the PowerWorks line, contact Jim Watts at 32 Exeter St., Portsmouth, NH 03801, Tel: 603-430-7020.
By Michele Lombardo, Product Editor, ElectricNet