Automatic reserve entry - what is it and how to choose it correctly? ATS for a generator: device, principle of operation, connection diagrams Generator autostart system

AVR - Automatic switching on of a backup generator.

In previous articles, we examined in some detail various types of autonomous power sources, namely UPS (battery-powered uninterruptible power supplies) and generator sets.

Almost all such devices work on the same principle, differing only in functionality, build quality and components, and, accordingly, price.

Algorithm for operation of automatic transfer switch for a generator:

1) Main line voltage monitor

2) When the main electricity is turned off, the generator starts

3) Warming up the generator

4) Switching the load to the GU (generator set)

5) When electricity appears on the main line (from the city), the load switches to the city

This is roughly how it works a simple automatic transfer switch, which is designed for simple start-stop of a generating station.

But there are also more modern device models. The functionality of such devices is quite wide. All of them are built on modern programmable processors. Such automation controls not only the presence of voltage in the network, but also its nominal value, according to the upper and lower limits, according to the voltage difference between the phases. If the permissible parameters are exceeded, a switch to the PG also occurs.

There are models of automatic transfer switches that can be programmed independently; you can set the necessary parameters for the normal and correct operation of the generator.

For example, for some generators it takes 20-40 seconds to reach normal operating mode, while others reach normal mode in 3-5 minutes.

And, in addition, the operating algorithm and control of diesel and gasoline power plants are slightly different. All this together requires additional settings.

More modern AVR models allow you to control the operation of the generator remotely via the Internet.

Almost all household power plants, and it is this segment of stations that we are considering, operate on a single fuel fill for about 7-9 hours. But, if no one is at home at the time of a power outage, then for the sake of one refrigerator or gas boiler, “running” a generator that “eats” 3-4 liters of fuel per hour is not entirely rational.

In order to increase the battery life of the generator from one refueling, some automatic models provide an economical operating mode.

This mode, depending on the settings, allows the generator set to operate at certain intervals, for example, it is set to operate every three hours. That is, the station works for an hour, rests for three. During this time, the refrigerator will not defrost and the house will not cool down. Accordingly, the operating time from one refueling increases significantly.

In addition to saving fuel, the service life of the station also increases significantly, which is also important.

In conclusion, I would like to note that the use of high-quality automation greatly simplifies the operation of the generator and allows almost anyone to control the work on the generator.

When choosing automation for a mini-power plant, we advise you to contact specialized organizations, companies that sell, install and install automation. It is advisable that this company be located in the same city-region with you, so that in case of problems they can fix the problem as soon as possible.

After installing the automation, it is advisable to draw up a work completion certificate, which will spell out the main obligations of the parties. In the future, if controversial situations arise, this document will greatly facilitate problem solving.

Sergey Seromashenko

Price: 6,000 rub.

In stock: 1.00

Allows you to turn any generator with an electric starter into an electric generator with automatic start.

Description

The BAZG-1 automatic generator start (autostart) unit is designed to start the generator engine on command, remotely, without human intervention, and is an inexpensive solution for building backup power supply systems in the event of a power failure in the main network.
The autostart unit will start and stop the generator engine if necessary.
The unit makes 5 startup attempts with an interval of 5 seconds start, 15 seconds break when
this by controlling the air damper.

The BAZG-1 automatic generator start unit is part of the automatic backup power supply system. The block is designed to start and control the operation of the generator engine upon command from an external source (toggle switch, radio channel, gsm-modem, AVR panel, inverter). For a full-fledged power grid backup system, it is necessary to purchase a switchboard for switching to a reserve - ATS. Our unit works with any type of automatic transfer switch.

We recommend a specialized one for collaboration. It may contain additional functions: the ability to test run the system, set time delays for starting and warming up the engine, a digital voltmeter, and a charger.
It is possible to work in systems with an inverter to start the generator and then recharge the battery.

To start, it is necessary to have one free normally closed “dry pair” of contacts on the contactor in the ATS or inverter or the inverter battery monitor, when closed, the generator will start.

Shell protection degree IP54 (protection from dust and humidity).

The autostart unit will be simply indispensable if you decide to assemble a generator autostart system with your own hands. You can assemble the automatic power unit (APS) yourself, but it is better to take a ready-made engine starting module.

It is possible to operate the BAZG-1 automatic generator start unit in systems with an inverter to start the generator with subsequent recharging of the battery.

The unit makes 5 attempts to start the generator while controlling the air damper.
Starting occurs when two contacts on the BAZG-1 block are closed, the generator stops when opened.

In case of unsuccessful startup, the unit goes into EMERGENCY mode.
Exit from the "EMERGENCY" mode occurs either when power is removed from the unit, or
when the "START" command is removed or when the "RESET" button on the unit is pressed.

Specifications

Automatic start unit supply voltage - 12V DC
Current consumption in standby mode - 5mA
Number of attempts to start the generator - 5
The generator starter rotation time is 5 seconds.
The pause between attempts to start the generator is 15 seconds.
The generator cooling time before turning off the engine is 30 seconds.

What's new in the model:

Easy connection to the generator: +12V, -12V, starter, oil sensor (all wires included!)
Working with different electric carburetor damper actuators
Determination of generator operation by the presence of voltage (220V input, for diesel generators)
Determination of generator operation by pulses from the ignition coil
Possibility to select delay before starting 2/10 seconds
Possibility to select the operating algorithm of the carburetor damper electric drive (odd-even, odd-even*)

*even - every even start with a closed damper, odd - every odd start with a closed damper.

Light indication on the board:
Power supply for the generator autostart unit
Job
Accident
Duplication of block outputs with light indication (ignition, solenoid, starter, damper opening, damper closing)

Completeness:

Generator starting unit BAZG-1-02 - 1 piece
Damper drive TYPE1 - 1 piece
Set of wires - 1 piece
Connection diagram - 1 piece
Device passport - 1 piece

Connection

Installing an autostart unit on a generator is a simple procedure, but it must be carried out by a specialist (electrician).

The automation unit itself can be installed on the frame of the generator or on the wall, next to the generator.

The procedure for installing an autostart unit on a generator is similar to installing a car alarm.

Installation is carried out without changing the standard wiring of the generator and takes from 10 minutes to an hour (with coffee breaks:).
We have prepared all the necessary wires for connection.

Electrical connection diagram BAZG-1-02

Content:

During the operation of backup power supplies, such a function as automatic starting of the generator in the event of a power outage is of great importance. The need to use these devices is due to a number of reasons. First of all, they are associated with the noisy operation of generators and the need, in connection with this, to place them at a distance from the house or even in separate buildings and underground bunkers. However, with such an isolated state, a serious problem arises in the supply of electricity to the site in cases of unexpected power outage.

Manual switching will take a lot of time. First, the main network is turned off, then you need to go to the generator, start it, let it warm up, and only after that you can supply electricity to the site. After city electricity has reappeared, the procedure for turning off the generator is repeated in reverse order. In order to avoid such movements, an autostart generator was invented that independently performs all operations. The operating principle of these devices is the same; they differ only in the number of functions, build quality, completeness and cost.

Generator autostart system

Automatic starting of the generator is carried out in the same sequence as in manual mode, only much faster. The simplest devices perform the usual switching on and off of a home power plant. Modern models offer a wider range of functions. The design of such devices is based on the latest programmable processors.

The system allows you to control not only the presence of mains voltage, but also its nominal value at the upper and lower limits, as well as the voltage difference between the phases. When the parameters go beyond acceptable limits, an automatic switchover to the generating set is performed. On some models of automatic transfer of reserve (), it is possible to independently program all the necessary parameters to ensure normal and correct operation of the power plant. Additional settings are provided for gasoline and diesel generators, taking into account their specifics.

One fuel fill ensures the device operates for 7-9 hours. To increase this indicator, the generator can operate automatically in an economical mode. For example, during a power outage, it is inappropriate to turn on the power plant to ensure the continuous operation of only one refrigerator or gas boiler. In such cases, the operating mode can be set to “one hour every three,” which means one hour of work and three hours of rest. During this time, nothing will happen to either the refrigerator or the heating system. Due to such savings, not only the time period of the station’s operation increases, but also its motor resource.

High-quality automation makes operating a generator much easier and more accessible for almost every person. It is recommended to select an autostart system from specialized organizations that not only sell, but also install the necessary equipment.

Generator autostart unit

As an automatic input of a reserve, let us consider in more detail the BAZG-1 device, which is a generator autostart unit. It provides remote control that does not require the presence of people. The main function of the unit is to start and stop the power plant engine. There are five attempts to start, including 5 seconds for the start itself, and 15 seconds for a break between starts with automatic control of the air damper.

The BAZG-1 unit is part of the automatic backup power supply system. An external source issues a command that starts and subsequently controls the operation of the engine. In order for the system to work fully, you will need a shield that switches to reserve.

The BAZG-1 device can work in conjunction with an inverter, which provides starting of the generator and further recharging of the battery. The generator starts and stops by closing and opening two contacts. If the startup attempt is unsuccessful, the unit goes into emergency mode. To exit it, you need to remove power from the unit or cancel the start command. The generator cools down for 30 seconds before shutting down the engine completely.

Generator autostart circuit

All electrical appliances and equipment that require backup power are separately highlighted in the autostart diagram. The remaining consumers remain connected to the city network according to the standard scheme. The phase connection is carried out through an automatic fuse. The backup power consumers themselves are connected via a 32-amp outlet, which allows the full power of the generator to be removed.

The circuit must necessarily include a grounding loop to ensure protection and safe operation of the installation. Please note that the socket and autostart unit are not designed for high loads. The power of consumers connected to backup power cannot be higher than the rated power of the generator. In case of overload, there is a high probability of burning the winding and failure of the entire installation.

In some cases, the autostart scheme provides. They are used for those consumers who are extremely demanding on the quality of electricity in domestic conditions and in production. The stabilizers are connected to the network in test mode. In case of stable operation of all consumers and absence of extraneous noise, the device is installed in front of the generator and connected to the city network. If the current supplied by the generator is of poor quality, then the stabilizer is installed after it and all consumers will receive an already stabilized current.

220V home generator with autostart system

LLC "Independent Energy Systems" has been engaged in controller-based production for many years own production. The controller includes high quality components, which determines the high reliability of our AVR units.

The electric generator AVR unit includes:

Controller board for autostart and automatic input of a reserve of an electric generator of our own production.
Power switches (contactors)
Charger for charging the battery of an electric generator.
Switches for selecting unit operating modes.
Emergency stop mushroom button.

Main functions

Security full cycle of work electric generator: automatic start of the electric generator in case of voltage supply to the main input, or the voltage of the main input goes beyond the established range; start-up of the electric generator and connection of consumers; control of the operation of the electric generator, overload protection; cooling and stopping the electric generator when the main input voltage appears.
Selecting the type of redundant network: single-phase network - single-phase electric generator, three-phase network - single-phase electric generator, three-phase network - three-phase electric generator.
Work with petrol, diesel And gas electric generators.
Control of the air damper drive (solenoid with return spring, DC motor) of gasoline and gas electric generators.
electric generator (optional).
Monitoring the battery voltage of an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). Starting the electric generator when the UPS battery is discharged.
Test weekly starting the generator, at the specified time and day of the week.
Eco mode operation of the electric generator (the operating time and idle time of the electric generator are set)
Hour meter and maintenance time meter
Built-in event log and alarm log with date and time.
Connection to a PC to read/change parameters and operating modes of the automation unit.
Expanding functionality by installing additional modules: , .

Summary table of characteristics


Max. power of three-phase network/generator	up to 15kW	up to 30kW	up to 30kW	up to 30kW	up to 30kW
Max. single-phase network/generator power	up to 7.5kW	up to 15kW	up to 15kW	up to 15kW	up to 15kW
Voltage, V	220/380	220/380	220/380	220/380	220/380
Maximum switching current, A	32	63	63	63	65
Contactor manufacturer	IEK	KZE Kashin	KZE Kashin	KZE Kashin	Shneider Electric
Charger	yes, up to 5A	yes, up to 5A	yes, up to 5A	yes, up to 5A	yes, up to 5A
Built-in bypass	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Built-in display	No	No	No	Yes	No
Built-in GSM modem	No	No	No	No	Yes
Weekly test run	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Work-rest mode	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Hour meter, time until maintenance	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Engine temperature monitoring	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
UPS battery monitoring	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Connect to PC()	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Connect external display()	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Installation	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Dimensions (WidthXHeightXDepth), mm	400x400x155	400x400x155	400x500x155	400x500x155	400x500x155
Weight, kg	15	19	25	25	25
Degree of protection	IP31	IP31	P31	P31	P31

Distinctive features

	The unit includes high-quality power switches (contactors) with mechanical and electrical protection against counter currents, made in Russia.
	A powerful battery charger for the electric generator is installed.
	The ability to control the temperature of the engine crankcase of a gasoline generator in order to control the air damper depending on the engine temperature, warm up the electric generator engine before connecting consumers, and protect the engine from overheating.
	Possibility of installing a GSM modem. Thanks to it, it becomes possible to remotely start/stop the electric generator via SMS messages, control the operating mode of the unit, read telemetric data (voltage by phase, engine hours, time until maintenance, battery charge, etc.), configure ALL parameters and constants of the AVR block(number of startup attempts, startup delays, shutdown of the electric generator, weekly test run time, etc.)
	Possibility of connecting the unit to a personal computer via the RS485 interface to configure parameters and constants, read current measurements, etc.
	Built-in bypass. In the event of a failure of the control controller, it is possible to manually start the electric generator and switch consumers to the backup line in the event of a loss of the main network.
	Forced start/stop of the electric generator by the User from the toggle switch on the ATS unit.
	Mushroom "Emergency Stop". Forced shutdown of the generator in the event of an emergency from the ATS unit.

Huter DY3000L. General form

The article was born when I was invited as a specialist to connect a Huter generator without autostart in the country. Moreover, I was tasked with ensuring that the generator connection diagram was as safe as possible and required minimal consumer (end-user) intervention. That is, an Automatic Backup Power (ABP) circuit was assembled, the options of which will be discussed in the article.

And about how this generator works... Its electrical diagram is also shown.

As always, let’s consider the theoretical side of the issue, carry out an analysis, and then I will present several ATS schemes, from simple to complex.

Generator connection. Options for ATS circuits for a generator

I’ll say right away that the generator has nothing to do with it, in this case it’s just a backup power source. This source can be not only a generator, but also a second phase, and a phase from another substation or another line. Automatic transfer switch (ATS) schemes are universal and can work in different situations.

Basically, what is there to connect here? The generator has a regular socket, a plug is included, what are the problems? But where does the wire from the plug go? And how to make sure that the connection diagram is convenient, correct, and most importantly, safe?

The most dangerous thing about connecting a generator is when the voltages from the generator and from the city meet. Or the voltage from the generator will go to the city, where a crew is working on the line in full confidence that the network is de-energized. And PZ (portable grounding) is not imposed (

It would seem that it would be easier to install a switch, and there would be no problems.

At the end of the article there is a photo with an example of such a switch.

This is what many people do, and this is what I do, depending on the client’s financial capabilities. Just don't forget about two important things:

Do not shift under load!
Select the correct protection and current of the circuit breaker (switch).

But we are not looking for easy ways, give us automation and protection from accidents and the human factor.

Therefore, I propose to consider the second version of the scheme:

2. Connection diagram of the generator via a voltage control relay. The simplest AVR circuit.

The second ATS circuit uses a KV voltage control relay. In fact, this is an ordinary relay that is in the on state when the voltage from the city is normal. And the changeover contact will be in the left position according to the diagram.

When the voltage from the city disappears, the relay turns off, and the circuit takes on the form shown - the load is powered by the generator.

The voltage control relay is the basis of any ATS circuit. For single-phase circuits, this is a regular relay that is powered from the main phase.

3. Connection diagram of the generator via relays and contactors. AVR with amplification

The third circuit differs from the second in that it can pass a much larger current through itself. The KV voltage relay is used only for its intended purpose - it automatically switches the load by supplying power to the coil of the corresponding starter.

When there is voltage from the city, KV is turned on, it turns on the contactor KM1 with its normally open (NO) contact, and phase L1 is supplied to the load (circuit output L).

When the voltage from the city stops coming, KV turns off, and with its NC contact it turns on the KM2 contactor, and phase L2 is supplied to the load.

The scheme is excellent, and even working. But using it is extremely dangerous. Due to the lack of protection against short circuit “phase L1 to phase L2”. Such a short circuit can occur due to a malfunction (sticking contacts, jammed relays or contactors), or due to the notorious human factor - what if a collective farm electrician decides to press the KM2 starter when KM1 is turned on?

According to statistics, in the case of the correct attitude to planned preventive maintenance, 90% of malfunctions and accidents occur due to the human factor!

So, in order to reduce the likelihood of accidents by an order of magnitude, in practice the following ATS circuit for a generator is used:

The only difference between it and circuit 3 is that it includes protection against the simultaneous activation of contactors KM1 and KM2. The protection has two stages - electrical and mechanical.

Electrical interlocking is implemented on the NC contacts KM1 and KM2, which mutually exclude the simultaneous activation of starters.

Well, the practical automation scheme will look like this:

5. ATS diagram for connecting a generator with interlocks and protections

Tearing the “city” zero is necessary for additional security. The fact is that at the output of the generator there is no concept of “working zero” and “phase”, and they can be called that way arbitrarily. And in the event of a stuck “phase” contact, when the N1 zero is not broken (as in diagram 4), a voltage of 220V will flow into the city line.

This is the diagram I put together, now I’ll show you how.

Design of automatic transfer switch for connecting a generator

5_Assembled and connected ATS circuit. Don't judge the installation too harshly.

On the left are two two-pole circuit breakers, then a REK77-3 relay with 3 switching contacts. The third NO contact, which is not shown in diagram 5, is connected in parallel with the motor switch SB1. When there is power from the city, the generator cannot be started. And when the generator is running and power comes from the city, the generator stops.

Starter KM2+KM1 – reversible, Ukrainian. Each of them has three power contacts in parallel. The KM1.N starter breaks zero, its coil is connected in parallel to the KM1.L coil.

By the way, I have used Alexandria (Ukrainian) contactors and heaters a lot in practice - they have an optimal price/quality ratio. But after the well-known events of 2014, they disappeared from sale... Let's move on to China.

In total, this is what the dacha automation for the generator turned out to be:

More ATS circuits for generators

Bonus – what you found on the Internet useful on the topic. Three-phase automatic transfer switches. They differ only in the use of a phase control relay and the number of contacts.

Three-phase automatic transfer switch from the AMK company. Reserve - generator, zero breaks.

AVR for 3 phases. Reserve - another line (substation), zero is common, does not break.

An example of installation of a three-phase ATS. This AVR is mounted in a shield higher than human height and installed in a Sberbank branch. It is powered by different city lines.

Three-phase ATS control circuit. Phase control relay EL-11E and intermediate relay are used

There are a lot of protections - there are automatic circuit breakers for the EL and for powering the contactors. I also wanted to put a couple of amperes on my control circuit, but at the last moment I changed my mind.

There is no mechanical lock. But the contactors are modular, closed, and who in their right mind would poke contactors at Sberbank. You still need to get into this room.

Important! When starting some generators, the voltage is unstable in the first seconds. This may have a negative impact on some loads. This must be taken into account; in normal ATS with controllers they set a delay of up to a minute! For overclocking and reaching the mode.

UPD: Connecting the boiler to the generator.

Often a generator is purchased to be used in winter to power the heating system boiler. There are some peculiarities here.

For imported phase-dependent boilers, it is important that the power system has a solidly grounded neutral, i.e. neutral and ground are connected together, and polarity (phase-zero) was observed when connecting.

It often happens that if the boiler is plugged into the socket the other way around, i.e. change the zero and phase, it stops working.

In the case of a portable generator, which is discussed in the article, there is neither zero nor phase. They must be made artificially - one output of the generator will be a phase (L2), and the second (N2) will be placed on the ground, i.e. ground.

In addition, as is known, boilers are very sensitive to the voltage form. And at the output of a conventional generator, the sine wave is “dirty”; if necessary, I will take an oscillogram. First of all, this happens because... The alternator that generates electricity is brushed, and because of the brushes sparking, failures, and similar unpleasant things occur.

It is because of this that Off-line and Smart UPS are not suitable for boilers. There at the output there is a quasi-sine with a bunch of harmonics. And for boilers, Online UPS (double conversion uninterruptible power supplies) is used. For such a UPS, the shape, magnitude and frequency of the input voltage are not particularly important, because it cooks a constant voltage from all this mess, from which it then electronically receives a pure sine wave. And if the boiler is powered through such a UPS, then you can use a regular generator for its backup power.

For boilers and other sensitive equipment, it is recommended to use inverter generators - this is a generator plus an online UPS. The inverter generator includes a regular generator, which is controlled by a controller, and an inverter, which produces pure sine wave - what boilers need.

Addition to the article. Switch.

I provide a photo of the TDM MP-63 switch, with which you can manually switch between street and generator. The diagram is at the beginning of the article.