STANDBY GENERATOR APPLICATIONS – DATA CENTRES

Designing a standby power system for data centre applications requires the correct generator to meet load requirements and also one using the most reliable fuel source.

Diesel fuel has been the traditional choice for standby power because its high thermal efficiency typically leads to lower cost per kilowatt in most applications. Site fuel storage and easy ability to service also ensure reliability.

Gaseous fuels are now being considered more often for standby applications as they have fewer storage issues than diesel. Local gas utilities can still shut off natural gas during catastrophic events, raising reliability questions.

Bi-fuel generators that rely on the benefits of diesel and natural gas are another alternative. They can run for extended time with efficient natural gas, and during crisis situations, turn to diesel. This allows significantly smaller quantities of diesel stored on site and means reduced maintenance costs, lower emissions, and reduced capital costs.

In today’s data sensitive market servers guarantee up-time for their customers, even during a catastrophic event. Today’s generation of smartphone users expect their telecommunication providers to provide 24/7 access, no matter the  circumstances. Large corporations and manufacturers sharing information around the globe demand uninterrupted service.

Reliability, however, can mean different things to different markets. Health care for example has different life threatening needs than data centres may require.

Diesel Fuel: First Historical Choice

Diesel has been the traditional market fuel for standby generator applications. However for some applications diesel may not be the most reliable. Issues of fuel storage, contamination, and break down can affect reliability. For example as diesel ages in storage it will suffer effects of oxidation, contamination, and tank corrosion. It could take 10 years to run down a single fuel tank. Oxidation can form a fine sediment that may clog the fuel filter and water, from condensation in the tank promotes growth of organisms which can also clog the fuel lines. The bottom line as in many instances is proper maintenance of the fuel system.

Gaseous Fuel: Increasing in Popularity

Natural gas is presenting a cost effective alternative. Especially today, gaseous fuels do not pose the kinds of environmental risks associated with diesel fuel. The improved emission profiles may make natural gas more attractive to the companies looking at reducing their overall carbon footprint. Concern comes about in earthquake areas such as the Pacific Coast area. Here you could look into natural gas as the primary fuel and LP as the secondary fuel. LP fuel can safely be stored on site for many years allowing for a cleaner alternative than diesel.

Designing a standby generator system for today’s data sensitive users requires many considerations. The power system suppliers in the market you are designing in can offer many solutions. It is also important in the specifications to outline all related components to the system. The sheet metal contractor is generally responsible for the diesel engine and generator exhaust systems. The breaching and components should be manufactured in accordance with NFPA 211, and shall be listed assemblies according to ULC/ORD-C959, UL-103 and ULC-S604. Proper specifications and applications will ensure that the assemblies are vented correctly.