Motor starting considerations when sizing an alternator

Electric motor starting must be reviewed when sizing a generator set. Electric
motors typically draw several times full load current during startup which causes
voltage dips in the system. Excessive voltage dips may cause equipment to
malfunction, fall offline or operate at risk of damage. Acceptable voltage dips vary
among different installations and depend on the type of load installed. A 3!
voltage dip is sometimes used as a rule of thumb. "otor starting aids or
oversizing of the generator may be required to achieve acceptable voltage dip
levels for your system. #eep in mind that the in$rush current to the motor during
startup will create a very rapid drop in voltage at the generator and recording the
magnitude of this drop may require an oscilloscope.
%he current consumption of electric motors during startup is termed &'ocked
(otor )urrent& or &starting k*A +,k*A-&. ,k*A is calculated.
,k*A / * x A x 0.132 3 0
Motor Starting Options
%he following suggestions may help accomodate motor loads into your system.
0. ,tarting large motors first takes advantage of more available ,k*A from
the generator.
2. %he use of reduced voltage starters reduces k*A required to start a given
motor. #eep in mind, however, that torque will be reduced as well, which may be
detrimental if starting the motor under load.
3. ,pecify oversized generators to handle the required ,k*A upon motor
startup, or select generators designed for motor starting, such as the "arathon
'ima"ac.
4. 5ound rotor motors require lower starting current, although they typically
cost more.
6. Allow motors to start quickly and come up to speed before loads are
applied by using clutches. %his will reduce the length of time that the motor
imposes the high current surge.
Things to Keep in Mind
0. *oltage dip level depends on motor and generator windings. %he addition
of series boost to the regulator or the addition of 7"8 +permanent magnet
generator- excitation does not contribute to better motor starting characteristics.
2. "otor starting contactors may drop$out +open- if voltage drops below 96!
of nominal level.
3. Excessively loaded motors may not start or could run at reduced speed,
resulting in overheating.
4. :nstantaneous voltage dips are different than sustained voltage dips. %he
latter ignores the maximum initial voltage drop that occur during the first few
cycles of motor starting. %hese are the critical instants that should be considered
when sizing generator.