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General Information 2‐5MN2408
Foundation Design
WARNING: An open bottom stationary engine generator set must be installed over noncombustible
materials and shall be located such that it prevents combustible materials from accumulating
under the generator set.
Foundation Checklist
A. Evaluate if a separate, isolated foundation is required for the application.
B. Observe local codes on soil bearing capacity freezing and thawing.
C. Design the separate foundation for the genset and specify the appropriate concrete mix.
D. Determine if the application requires vibration isolators and if so, order as a factory option.
The foundation must be strong enough to support the weight of the genset and its associated
equipment, must prevent any deflection of the genset base and absorb vibration produced by the
rotating and reciprocating masses.
Setting The Genset On An Existing Concrete Floor Slab
S If an existing floor is used, the floor slab must be strong enough to carry 1.50 times the
genset wet weight (including coolant and oil) to accommodate dynamic loads.
S The actual mounting arrangement (ie., surface area in contact with the floor) will
determine the compressive strength required.
S The genset should be securely fastened to the floor slab with expansion anchors that fit
the mounting holes shown on the genset installation diagram.
S For installations not expected to be permanent, elastomer pad with non-slip surface
placed between the base and the floor will also prevent movement.
S Any floor/slab surface should be as flat as possible to prevent sub-base deflection.
Vibration Isolators
S Mounting to the pad, will result in overall reduced motion on other parts of the genset.
The trade-off is that slightly more vibration is transmitted to the structure.
S A more common practice when mounting to a concrete pad is to use vibration isolators.
The two most common types of vibration isolators are steel spring and elastomer pad.
The primary purpose of vibration isolators is to reduce the noise and vibration which
would be transmitted from the genset to the foundation or supporting structure.
S A simple and effective method of mounting and applying pad type isolators is to place
non-skidding type isolation pads directly between the sub-base and floor.
The number of pads required will be determined by the load bearing capability of the
pads and the genset's weight.
Figure 2‐1 Typical Installation of Spring Type Isolator