Technical topics

The challenging part is that many ATS problems are not obvious during commissioning. Some failures only appear under real emergency conditions, precisely when the system is under maximum stress. A transfer switch that appears to function normally during a simple no-load test may fail during a utility voltage collapse, motor inrush event, or neutral fault condition.

Understanding the most common ATS installation mistakes can help contractors reduce callbacks, improve reliability, protect equipment, and build long-term credibility with clients. The following issues continue to appear in field inspections, forensic failure investigations, and emergency service calls throughout the United States.

Reliable backup and prime power systems depend on much more than the generator set itself. The integration between the generator tank, the power generator, and a disciplined generator maintenance strategy ultimately determines system longevity, safety, and performance. Electrical engineers, electrical contractors, and general contractors working with diesel generator systems understand that failures rarely originate from a single component—they are usually the result of overlooked details in fuel storage, coating systems, environmental exposure, or maintenance practices.

Fuel tanks in particular represent a critical but often underestimated subsystem. Improper coating selection, poor surface preparation, or inadequate corrosion protection can lead to contamination, leaks, and even catastrophic system downtime. Meanwhile, generator reliability is directly tied to fuel quality, storage conditions, and the integrity of tank materials over time.

This article delivers a deep technical breakdown of generator tank design, coating systems, and maintenance practices, incorporating real-world manufacturer processes and industry-proven standards. Drawing from documented coating procedures and specifications used in diesel tank manufacturing and validated technical summaries , this guide is designed to help professionals make informed decisions that improve performance, reduce lifecycle costs, and ensure regulatory compliance.

As an authorized distributor of Rehlko (formerly Kohler), Brags & Hayes Generators provides insights for electrical engineers designing and specifying resilient power systems. This article dives into seismic isolation principles, International Building Code (IBC) compliance, and how Rehlko’s engineering ensures operational integrity during seismic events. All information is grounded in the official Rehlko whitepaper “Seismic Isolation and IBC Certification” by Luke Dykstra.

Synchronization of Generators is the process of matching the output of one generator with the electrical parameters of another power source (such as a power grid or another generator) before connecting them together. In industrial and commercial power systems, multiple generators often operate in parallel (also called generator paralleling) to increase capacity, enhance reliability, or facilitate maintenance. However, paralleling generators is only possible when all units are properly synchronized – meaning their voltages, frequencies, and phase relationships align within strict tolerances. This article provides an in-depth technical overview of generator synchronization, covering how it works, why it’s crucial for power systems, methods and equipment used, necessary conditions, consequences of faults, and answers to frequently asked questions. Engineers and designers of power generator systems will gain a comprehensive understanding of synchronization requirements and best practices.

In power generators, both the armature and the stator are crucial components responsible for energy conversion through electromagnetic induction. Their failure can result in voltage instability, overheating, or complete generator shutdown. Understanding these components, their function, and how to replace them properly is essential for maintaining generator reliability.

This guide will provide a detailed breakdown of armatures and stators, their differences in AC and DC generators, common causes of failure, and a step-by-step replacement procedure for each component. We will also cover critical safety precautions and post-installation testing to ensure optimal performance.

This article is written for electrical engineers and generator technicians who require an in-depth technical approach.

In this post we will continue to delve into the Generator Set Application and Rating Guidelines so that you can understand what type of power generator product to purchase to meet your needs.

When it comes to investing in a generator set, the decision isn’t just about selecting a brand or model. It’s about understanding how generators are rated, their applications, and the specific conditions under which they’ll operate. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of generator rating categories, application considerations, and crucial factors affecting performance, such as altitude and temperature adjustments.