Josie

What is frequency regulation?

Each Winco engine driven generator set has a range of frequency regulation. Frequency is measured in Hertz (Hz). In conventional generators it is controlled by the speed (RPM) of the engine. For 60 hz applications the engine operates at 1800 or 3600 RPM depending upon the type of generator end used. It is important that the engine speed is maintained at a constant level. The engine governor maintains the engine speed.

Engine are either mechanically or electronically governed. The following animations help illustrate the differences.

MECHANICAL GOVERNOR

The mechanical governor works with weights that are connected to the flywheel. As the flywheel spins faster it will close the throttle causing the engine speed to adjust. If the flywheel speed (RPM) slows down, the weights come closer to the shaft causing the throttle to open.

ELECTRONIC GOVERNOR

The electronic governor have a mag pickup that monitors the speed of the flywheel by registering an electrical signal when raised teeth pass close by it. The mag pick up signal is sent to the electronic throttle control which opens or closes the throttle to adjust the engine speed.

Which type of frequency regulation is better? It really depends on what you need. Check out our clean power article to learn more.

What Controls Voltage Regulation?

Proper voltage output protects the generator and anything it is powering.

WINCO specifies voltage regulation on all of our spec sheets. This voltage regulation is steady state, meaning it has a fixed load and accounts for bigger variations during motor starting and other large loading situations.

Expected ranges:

+/- 1% for both 120 and 240V (AVR)
+/- 5% for both 120 and 240V (Capacitor)

VOTAGE REGLATORS

Automatic Voltage Regulator

An AVR electronically regulates voltage, usually less than 1%, providing a more constant and reliable power supply. The AVR constantly adjusts the strength of the rotor field to control the output voltage.

Capacitor Voltage Regulator

Capacitors are used in brushless rotating field generator designs. They are an inexpensive way to regulate voltage while eliminating brushes and slip rings.

Transformer Voltage Regulator

In transformer machines the amount of current draw on the generator alters the strength of the field adjusting voltage. Transformer regulated machines generally have superior motor starting characteristics.

When an AVR is combined with an engine equipped with an electronic governor, you will achieve the most accurate regulation. Whereas, a mechanical governor with an inherently regulated system will have the least accurate voltage regulation. You can learn more about engine governors here.

While you are looking at the right generator for your application, make sure you have verified what range of voltage your equipment requires.

What is Total Harmonic Distortion?

AC voltage follows a sine wave. A perfect sine wave is shown below on the left. The position of the winding groups and other factors in the generator end determines the generator’s output voltage sine wave. Since the generator end is not prefect there are variations in a mechanically produced since wave from “perfect.” This variation is called Total Harmonic Distortion or THD.

Perfect Sine Wave

Variant Sine Wave

The diagrams above show a perfect sine wave (left) without any THD, and a sine wave with variations (right). All of Winco’s current product offering has THD of less than 6%. This is suitable for most applications.

WINCO Has Struck Oil!

Posted on October 19, 2020October 19, 2020 by Josie — Leave a comment

We have partnered with a nationally recognized oil company (we can’t say who because it normally costs more) to give you a high quality, WINCO branded, full synthetic oil. This is the same oil we put in each engine at the factory allowing you to continue using the oil we trust to keep everything running smoothly.

5W-30

Part number: 300515-31
MSRP: $12.00/quart

5W-40

Part number: 300515-425
MSRP: $71.00/2.5 gallons

When you add on a maintenance kit to your generator purchase, don’t forget the oil!

– BIG DOG

The New DR90

Posted on October 15, 2020October 13, 2020 by Josie — Leave a comment

When looking through our products, you may have noticed the DR90 looks a little bit different. Well, it is. Our ongoing journey of updating and improving has brought the DR90 to a new design.

WHAT IS NEW

What you probably notice first is the new color. We believe the gunmetal gray looks tough and will look great next to any building. Let’s just say this Big Dog is glad we didn’t go with tan – don’t tell anyone I said that! An industrial unit should look tough.

Beyond changing the color, we narrowed the door swing and added lift out panels. This means you can plan installation closer to walls while maintaining full access for service. Speaking of the foot print, we extended the base allowing for more fuel in the tank before it has to stick out past the base. If your application will have the generator installed inside a building, you can get a DR90 in an open skid design.

WHAT’S INSIDE ALSO COUNTS

Even though this is a redesign, don’t be worried that we cut back on any key components. WINCO’s generators are known for their longevity and dependability. That is because we have cultivated strong partnerships with top manufactures like FPT and Stamford. The DR90 is engineered with an FPT 4.5L, Tier III engine and an industrial Stamford generator end. Add to the mix the DSE7310 digital controller and Square D circuit breakers, you have there a fine piece of machinery. Long story short, you are getting all prime components, but the EPA only lets us sell it for standby applications.

WHAT IS COMING UP NEXT

The DR45 and DR65 are coming up next in the redesign world. These two units will share the same tanks and footprint as the DR90. How easy is that?!

Take a look here to quote and learn more about the DR90.