Parallel generators mean that two or more units of the same or different sizes are running with their output cables connected to a single electrical bus. 

Parallel Generators: Things You Need To Know

Synchronising refers to the process of getting generators to run in parallel. This process involves matching the frequency and voltage of each generator to combine the electrical supplies.

Parallel Generators: How It Works

If you have a generator and you have to do a parallel setup, here’s how parallel generators work:

To put things easier, a parallel system means that there are two generators where cables are connected to a single line that provides a combined power.

Step 1

The first thing you must do is to make sure that the generators are rated the same for voltage and amperage. If they are incompatible or match, it can cause damage to one or both generators.

Step 2

Using a parallel kit, connect both generators. Always refer to the user’s manual or parallel kit for specific steps of your generators. Make sure to follow the sequence to power the generators.

Step 3

Connect the generators through the parallel kit cable to the power input for your home, RV, or job site. Always follow the instructions and user’s manual to avoid problems.

Compatible Generators

Using similar generators is easy to set up your parallel generators successfully. At least the generators have the same alternator pitch, output voltage, and frequency. It is the easiest approach since the same type of generators or compatible generators shares the same properties – alternators, engines, load-sharing controls, speed, interfaces, and many more. 

Incompatible Generators

If you parallel incompatible generators, the system will be more complex. If your generators are the same size (in KW), the parallel system can support a higher priority load. The smallest portable generator limits the maximum priority load if the sizes are different. If this is the case with your generators, the control is quite complicated, and you might need to change the sequence of operation. 

If you are using generators of different sizes, make sure that the large loads are dropped out first in case the bigger generator fails, and make sure that the smaller unit will be left with a load it can support.

Placement of the Generators

When setting up your parallel system, you also need to pay attention to the placement of your generators. Remember, water is not a friend to your generator. Place the generator in a dry and waterproof generator shed. Also, make sure that there is enough ventilation for proper airflow. And lastly, the generators should be clear of dust and debris.

Why not buy a larger generator instead?

Maybe you are wondering if you should buy a larger generator instead of doing parallel. Well, here are a few things you need to consider if you buy a larger generator to increase your power supply:

• Purchasing a larger generator will cost significantly more.
• It is more expensive to maintain a large generator.
• Fuel-wise, it is less efficient.
• Larger generators produce a lot of noise and are louder to operate.
• Because of the bigger size, moving or transporting a larger generator will be more challenging.

Benefits of Parallel Generators

Not sure if you should set up a parallel system for your generators? Here are some of the benefits:

• Increased reliability and redundancy – Parallel generator system will help improve reliability and redundancy for critical and non-critical loads. It allows for constant power to critical loads. And if one of the generators fails, the other parallel unit will supply the load.
• Cost-effective solution – The cost of generation increases as the generator power size increases. Thus, synchronizing small generators is more economical than using a single large generator.
• More control and savings on generating costs – There is more control and balance in synchronizing smaller generators. The power supplied by parallel generators is equal to the power provided by one large generator. 
• Expandability and flexibility – With the parallel setup, generators can be added gradually when needed. If you have several generators in a parallel system, you can supply a different load without piling up costly units. 

Things to Consider in Parallel Generators

With parallel generators, here are a few things that you should look into:

• Check if the generator is compatible with the parallel system. Most inverter generators are parallel-compatible. You can check your user manual to confirm your generator has parallel capacity.
• Know how much power you need. It will help you determine the maximum capacity to operate two generators in parallel. For example, if you have 2000 watts, two generators in a parallel connection can produce 4000 watts.
• Pick or purchase another generator that is compatible with your existing generator. The generators should match in frequency, voltage, and phase number.

Parallel Generators: Things to Remember

When working on parallel generators and synchronizing, it is essential to remember that each of the sets should have the following characteristics:

• Frequency – The frequency of the generators must be the same.
• Voltage – The generators should have the same voltage.
• Phase number – The two systems you synchronize should have the same number of phases. It should be either three or a single phase.
• Phase rotation – The three phases must be matched to prevent power surges and excessive mechanical and electrical stresses.
• Voltage phase angle – The waveforms should be matched, meaning they rise and fall together. 

There are also a few questions that you need to consider. These will help you determine the end efficiency of the parallel system.

• How far from the load will your generators be placed? Take note that the longer distances will require more voltage.
• What type of fuel will you need to use? There are generators using propane, gasoline, diesel, and natural gas.
• How long will your generator run, based on the fuel tank size? It would be best if you also considered the load (50%, 75%, or full load).
• Is there enough ventilation for your generators? It will ensure proper cooling and prevent generators overheat.
• Is the generator transported or stationery? Portable generators are equipped with compact and lightweight designs for portability.

FAQ

Conclusion

Parallel generators have different advantages. You do it to increase reliability and redundancy, cost-effective power generation, and flexible load management. If you don’t know how to set up parallel generators, always ask for assistance from the experts.