Filter
Top Products
TP-6804 12/11 23Section 2 Generator Set Operation
2.4 Exercise
The RDC2 and DC2 controllers can be set to
automatically run the generator set at the same time and
day each week. Exercising the generator set weekly or
every two weeks is required to keep the engine and
alternator in good operating condition.
Three exercise modes are available: unloaded cycle,
unloaded full speed, and loaded full speed. See
Sections 2.4.2 through 2.4.4 for information about the
exercise modes. A loaded exercise can be set at the
RDC2 controller only if a Model RXT transfer switch is
connected.
Note: With the RDT and RSB transfer switches, it is
possible to have two exercise settings (one
unloaded exercise set at the generator set
controller, and another exercise set at the ATS
controller). If the exercise times overlap, the ATS
exercise setting takes priority.
If a Model RDT or RSB transfer switch is used, refer to
the instructions provided with the transfer switch to set a
loaded exercise at the ATS, if desired.
2.4.1 Setting the Exerciser
When power is applied to the RDC2 controller (that is,
when the battery is connected), you will be prompted to
set the date and time, and then to set the exerciser.
The first setting will flash. Press the Up and Down arrow
buttons to change the setting. Press Select to save the
setting and move on to the next. See Section 3.5 for
more detailed instructions to change settings on the
RDC2. See Section 3.6 for more detailed instructions to
set the exerciser or change the exercise settings.
The DC2 controller does not prompt you to set the
exerciser. See Section 4.5 for instructions to set the
exerciser on the DC2.
2.4.2 Unloaded Cycle Exercise with
Complete System Diagnostics
An unloaded exercise runs the generator set without
signalling the transfer switch to transfer the electrical
load from the utility source to the generator set. The
Unloaded Cycle exercise with diagnostics is the
recommended exercise mode and is the default
exercise setting.
The Unloaded Cycle exercise runs the engine for 20
minutes in the cycle shown in F igure 2-1 and described
below.
D Runs at reduced speed for 10 minutes to warm up
and exercise the engine.
D Ramps up and runs at full speed for 3 minutes.
Engine diagnostics are performed during this
full-speed portion of the cycle, which provides the
best test of engine and alternator power backup
capability. Diagnostic tests at full speed can identify
potential problems with the power output and alert the
operator before an emergency event.
D Ramps down and runs at reduced speed for 5
minutes to cool down the engine before shutting down
automatically.
Engine Speed, RPM
Engine
Exercise
Full-Speed
Diagnostics
Cooldown
3min.
1min.
1min.
10 min. 5 min.
Figure 2-1 Unloaded Exercise Cycle
System Diagnostics
During the unloaded exercise, the controller monitors
the following data. The controller display indicates that
the generator set is running, unless a fault is detected as
described below.
D ATS connection. The controller verifies that the
Model RXT ATS interface board is connected.
D Battery voltage. Battery voltage is checked before
exercise to verify engine starting capability. Battery
voltage provides a measurement of battery health. If
the controller detects low battery voltage, the
condition is indicated on the display.
D Communication integrity tests. J1939, RBUS,
Ethernet, and USB are monitored for messages
indicating that the controller and wiring are reliable.
D Engine speed. Engine speed is measured at
reduced speed and full speed. An overspeed or
underspeed condition will result in a fault condition
and shutdown.
D Generator output frequency and voltage.
Operating the generator at full speed allows the