Facility Managers Guide to Life Safety Emergency Power Standards – Part III
In our ongoing exploration of the CSA C282-19 standard for Emergency Electrical Power Supply for Buildings, we have examined the critical roles of regular preventative maintenance checks. As we progress to the third installment of this series, our focus shifts to the major semi-annual and annual inspections and tests. These comprehensive evaluations are not merely procedural but are integral in assuring the long-term functionality and reliability of emergency power systems.
These periodic checks go beyond the surface level, delving into the intricate aspects of the emergency power systems. They serve as a health check, ensuring every component functions optimally and aligns with the evolving needs of the facility. From testing battery systems to examining fuel quality and system load tests, these semi-annual and annual procedures play a pivotal role in preempting potential failures and ensuring readiness for any emergency.
Remember that the essence of CSA C282-19 is not just about compliance but about cultivating a culture of safety and preparedness. This preventative maintenance plan aims to empower facility managers, engineers, and all stakeholders with the knowledge and strategies necessary for implementing these essential checks Thereby cementing our commitment to life safety and operational continuity in the face of unforeseen challenges.
At this point, it is important to emphasize that any competent maintenance staff member who is comfortable around operating machinery, is able to satisfactorily complete the requirements of the weekly and monthly generator tests. However, when it comes to the more involved tests and inspections, a trained generator service technician is required. There is a big difference between a person who can operate a generator and a person who can diagnose any faults to the point of recommending how to repair any deficiencies.
Complete the following semi-annual generator system checks:
1.???? Complete all items specified in Weekly (Part I) and Monthly (Part II) testing.
2.???? Inspect and clean engine crankcase breathers, if attached.
3. ?Inspect and clean all engine linkages.
4.??Lubricate the engine governor and ventilation system.
5.??Test protective devices for proper operation: over crank, overspeed, overload, phase unbalance alarms, temperature alarms, coolant level sensors, oil level sensors and so on.
6.??Before start-up, perform two full cranking cycles. Near the end of each cycle (and while still cranking), measure and record the lowest indicated battery voltage. If the measured voltage is less than 80% of the battery's rated voltage, replace the battery. Alternatively, perform a battery load test using a suitable load tester.
7.??Inspect ventilation system belts (ie. fan belts) for unusual wear and cracking.
8.??Correct all defects found during inspections and tests.
9.??Record all inspections, tests, and corrective actions in the log.
Complete the following Annual Service and Load Test items:
- Complete all items specified in the Weekly (Part I), Monthly (Part II) and semi-annual testing requirements.
- Control panel:
a. Open all inspection covers and inspect all electrical connections.
b. Test breakers for proper operation.
c. Clean insulators and bushings.
d. Test voltage regulator for proper operation.
e. Operate all moving parts to ensure that they move freely.
f. Clean and dress contacts as necessary.
g. Remove all dust.
h. Check gauge calibration.
i. For off-site fueled generators (natural gas), turn position-indicating gas valve to off-position to ensure valve rotates properly and that the audible alarm on generator control panel is activated.
3. Engine:
a. Change engine lubrication oil and filters.
b. Test strength of coolant and chemical protection level of coolant inhibitors.
c. Change fuel filters, clean strainer(s), and verify that the fuel supply valve is open.
d. Inspect the exhaust system. Check and record the back pressure of the exhaust system to ensure that it complies with the engine manufacturer’s requirements, and compare with previous readings.
e. Clean and lubricate linkages.
f. Inspect air filters
g. Inspect all mechanical connections.
h. Inspect all electrical connections.
i. Inspect all external surfaces of heat exchanger(s) and clean as necessary.
j. Inspect all belts and hoses and replace if necessary.
k. Test and inspect ignition system(s). Replace any defective components.
l. Inspect coolant pump(s) for leaks and external wear [if belt driven, remove the belt(s) first].
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4. Diesel fuel storage tank(s) - The fuel oil in any storage tank (and auxiliary supply tank, if used) shall be tested, and if the fuel oil fails the test, it shall be:
a. drained and refilled with fresh fuel in accordance with Article 6.5.1.5 of the National Fire Code of Canada; or
b. full filtered to remove water, scale, bacteria, and oxidized gums/resins in order to minimize filter clogging and ensure diesel start-up.
When the fuel is filtered, it shall be treated with a suitable conditioner and stabilizer to minimize degradation while in storage.
Most generator service providers offer this service with before and after filtration analysis to prove their efficacy.
5. Generator:
a. Test surge suppressor and rotating rectifier on brushless machines.
b. Grease bearings (replace old grease with new) (if applicable).
c. Clean commutator and slip rings (if applicable).
d. Clean rotor and stator windings using clean compressed air.
e. Inspect coupling bolts and alignment.
f. Inspect conduits for tightness.
g. Inspect windings at rotor and stator slots.
h. Inspect all electrical connections.
i. With the generator set operating at full load, conduct an infrared survey of all electrical connections to identify any high-resistance connections.
a. Electrically isolate all overcurrent protective devices. Such as fuses, circuit breakers and protective relays.
b. Remove all dust.
c. Test devices for proper operation.
7. Transfer switches:
?a. Isolate transfer switch, open all inspection covers, and inspect all electrical connections.
b. Operate all moving parts to ensure that they move freely.
c. Clean and dress contacts as required.
d. Remove all dust.
e. Clean and lubricate linkages.
8. Infrared thermal imaging:
a. Perform infrared thermal imaging of the normal power supply (preferred) side of each transfer switch. Ensure that the normal power supply side of each transfer switch has been loaded to at least 40% of the circuit rating of the normal power supply feeder for at least 60 min and that the load does not drop below 40% during the imaging. Scan all electrical connections, contacts, and energized components.
b. At the end of the 60 min load test, with the emergency power supply system (all components) still operating under at least 40% load, perform infrared thermal imaging of all components from the point where the load bank cables will be connected(for the 2 h full load test), through to and including the load side of each transfer switch. Scan all electrical connections, contacts, circuit breakers, and energized components.
c. After at least 60 min of the emergency generator full load test, with the emergency generator still operating under full load, conduct infrared thermal imaging of all components from the load terminals of each alternator through to the connection point for the load bank cables. Scan all electrical connections, contacts, circuit breakers, and energized components.
d. Correct any components or connections that displayed unacceptably high temperatures or unacceptable differences in temperature between phases, during the tests in Items a), b), and c) above. e) Repeat the infrared thermal imaging for any components and connections that were serviced, repaired, or replaced following the scans performed in Items a), b), or c) above.
9. Lubricate door locks and hinges (if necessary), especially those of outdoor enclosures.
10. Conduct a 2 hour full-load test
11. As needed, review and provide instruction on the technical requirements for weekly, monthly and semi-annual inspections with the person(s) responsible for carrying out the work.
12. Correct all defects found during inspections and tests.
13. Record all inspections, tests, and corrective actions in the log.
NEXT TIME: THE QUINQUENNIAL (5 YR) GENERATOR SERVICE