MEP831A GENERATOR CHARACTERISTICS, CAPABILITIES, COMPONENTS, OPERATIONS AND PMCS CLASS

MEP-831A GENERATOR CHARACTERISTICS, CAPABILITIES, COMPONENTS, OPERATIONS AND PMCS CLASS

Below is the text of this manual. UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS MARINE CORPS ENGINEER SCHOOL UTILITIES INSTRUCTION COMPANY PSC 20069 CAMP LEJEUNE, NORTH CAROLINA 28542-0069

  1. MEP-831A CHARACTERISTICS AND CAPABILITIES.
  2. The MEP 831A is a 3kW (3000 watt) generator producing 60Hz of electric power. The MEP 831A is skid mounted with fork lift provisions.
  3. The MEP 831A weighs 304lbs dry, and 334lbs with a full fuel tank. The MEP 831A is 34.8” long, 27.8” wide, and 26.5” tall. The MEP 831A has six lifting handles and four tie down rings. The MEP 831A can be manually lifted, or moved by forklift.
  4. The MEP 831 has a hinged enclosure that allows quick access for preventive and scheduled maintenance. The cooling system for the MEP 831A is a thermostatically cooled by two fans.
  5. The MEP 831A has a single-cylinder, air cooled, direct injection, four stroke Yanmar diesel engine. The engine operates between 3000 to 3600 RPM (6.7 HP at operating speed). The maximum RPM rating is 3800 RPM. The diesel engine for a MEP 831A has an oil capacity of 1.2 quarts (1.1 liters), and is consumed at 0.04 ounce (1.18 ml) per hour at a rated load.
  6. The MEP 831A is equipped with a four gallon fuel tank, allowing eight hours of continuous operation at a full load. The MEP 831A is designed to consume .5 gallons per hour at a rated load. When the MEP 831A is connected to an auxiliary fuel system, it will be continually replenished. The MEP 831A is designed to use either diesel fuel type 1 (DF1) or 2 (DF2), and turbine fuel JP-8.
  7. The MEP 831A has 24VDC cranking system. The MEP 831A has a Permanent Magnet Alternator (PMA) with a frequency converter.
  8. The output voltages are a 2-plug 120VAC convenience receptacle with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI), single phase, 2 wire, 120VAC, or single phase, 3 wire, 120/240VAC. The

                current output for the MEP 831A is 31 amps max for 120VAC, and 16 amps max for 120/240VAC.     PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION

Generator Set:
ManufacturerFermont
ModelMEP-831A
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)4
Fuel TypeDiesel/JP-8
Engine
ManufacturerYanmar
ModelL70AE-D/DE
Type4 cycle, air cooled
Number of Cylinders1
Speed (RPM)3000 to 3600
Dimensions
Length (in)35
Width (in)28
Height (in)27
Weight
Dry (lbs)304
Wet (lbs)334
Power Requirements
A/C Generator
ManufacturerDewey Electronics
TypeRotating field, synchronous
Phase1
Current Ratings (amps)60Hz
120 volts, 2 wire31a
120/240 volts 3 wire16a
  1. COMPONENTS OF THE TACTICAL QUIET GENERATOR (TQG).
  2. Major Components.

    (1) Enclosure Assembly. The enclosure assembly (1, Figure 1-2), supports the control box assembly, cooling air system, and exhaust assembly components.  It protects the engine, generator, and other internal components from damage.  It incorporates a fire retardant acoustical insulation to reduce noise levels, and acts as a shield to reduce electromagnetic pulse effects on generator set components.

WARNINGEngine exhaust gas (Carbon Monoxide) is a deadly odorless, colorless, poisonous gas. Avoid breathing it.

    (2) Enclosure Cooling and Ventilation System.  Air intake openings and engine intake ducts at the rear of the enclosure assembly allow for the engine cooling using external air.  Two thermostatically controlled fans (5, Figure 1-2) mounted in the enclosure assembly activate during high temperature conditions to drive hot exhaust air through openings in the enclosure.   (3) Skid Base.  The welded skid base (17, Figure 1-2) provides the main structural support for the generator set.  The engine/generator assembly is mounted to the skid base with vibration isolators which isolate engine generated vibration from the rest of the generator set.  The generator set’s plastic fuel tank is contained within the skid base, as is the 24VDC battery.   (a) The skid base contains four swing-out lift handles (7), two standard lifting handles (9), four tie-down rings (8), and two forklift openings (12).   (b) An oil drain plug (10) and fuel drain plug (11) protrude through openings on the skid base, on the right side of the generator set.   (c) A 24VDC slave receptacle (14) and load terminal connections (behind cover (16)) are mounted to the skid base at the rear of the generator set.   (4) Battery.  A 24VDC battery, mounted in the skid base, provides cranking power for the engine as well as DC power for the control system.  The battery’s location in the skid base permits easy servicing.  Openings in the enclosure assembly vent escaping battery gases to the atmosphere, preventing gas build-up inside the enclosure.   (5) Exhaust System.  The generator set exhaust system (20) consists of a muffler and exhaust piping.  Engine exhaust exits the generator set through an opening in the top of the enclosure assembly.  Insulating material on the exhaust system components protects maintenance personnel against potential burn hazards and reduces heat rejection into the enclosure assembly. (6) Control Box Assembly.  The control box assembly is mounted to the enclosure assembly at the rear of the generator set.  Instruments, controls, and indicators required to operate the generator set are located on the control box assembly.  The control box assembly consists of a control panel (18, Figure 1-2), ground fault circuit interrupter, (13) (60Hz only).   (a) The control panel (18) portion of the box is hinged to allow access for testing and maintenance.   (b) The Control Panel Contains the Following Instruments and Switches:  

  1. 1. HOURS Meter
  2. 2. FUEL LEVEL Gauge
  3. 3. VOLTAGE Meter
  4. 4. LOAD Meter
  5. 5. START/RUN/STOP Switch
  6. 6. EMERGENCY STOP Switch
  7. 7. AUX FUEL Switch
  8. 8. PREHEAT Switch
  9. 9. VOLTAGE ADJUST Switch
  10. 10. BATTLE SHORT Switch
  11. 11. Fault Indicator Module
  12. a. The Fault Indicator Module Contains Lights that Indicate the Following Generator Set Conditions:

                        (1) ENGINE HIGH TEMP   (2) LOW OIL PRESSURE   (3) NO FUEL   (4) OVERVOLTAGE   (5) OVERLOAD SHORT CIRCUIT (6) BATTLE SHORT ON.  

              (7) Output Terminals and Slave Receptacle.  The output terminal board and ground terminal are located on the generator set skid base, just below the control box assembly.  A hinged cover (16, Figure 1-2) allows access to the three load terminal and single ground terminal.  An insulated wrench, used for connecting wires to terminals, is secured to the rear of the hinged cover.  A filter mounted to the back of the load terminals prevents Electro-Magnetic Interference (EMI).  The generator’s 24VDC slave receptacle is mounted to the skid base, to the right of the output terminals.                                                               (8) Engine/Generator Assembly.  The engine/generator assembly (Figure 1-3) consists of a single-cylinder engine (14), permanent magnet generator (5), and associated electrical, fuel and oil components,  The engine/generator assembly is mounted to the skid base (8) with vibration mounts (7) to prevent engine vibration from affecting the operation of the generator set components.  A fuel drain plug (9) and oil drain plug (10) allow maintenance to drain engine fluids.  

                                      (9) Engine.  The generator set is equipped with a single cylinder; air cooled, direct injection, four stroke cycle, diesel engine (14, Figure 1-3).  The engine is designed to operate between 3000 and 3600 RPM. The engine has self-contained oil lubrication and fuel systems.  The engine is equipped with an air filter (2), muffler (3), 24VDC starter motor (4), manifold heater (15), engine high coolant temperature switch (12), engine oil low pressure switch (12), and oil fill cap and gauge (11).  A rope pulled recoil system (1) permits manual start of the engine without the battery. Engine cooling is provided by a flywheel fan, which forces air over the cylinder fins and engine components.  The fan is completely guarded to prevent inadvertent contact during operation.   (10) Generator.  The permanent magnetic generator (5, Figure 1-3) consist of four three phase isolated AC output windings.  Voltage output is proportional to engine speed (approximately 190VAC at 3kW, 3450 RPM).  The rotating portion of the generator is mounted directly to the engine, on the engine crankshaft extension, without a bearing.   (11) Power Inverter/Converter.  The power inverter/ converter (19, Figure 1-2) is located in the skid base, between the control box and generator.  It provides the regulated     120VAC/240VAC, 2 wire, or 120/240VAC, 3 wire (single phase only) output.   (12) Fuel System.  The generator set is equipped with a four-gallon fuel tank (1, Figure 1-4) which provides enough fuel to operate for eight hours at full load.  The tank is mounted within the skid base.  The tank’s filler assembly consists of a filler neck (2), fuel strainer (3), and vented fill cap (4).  The tank contains a fuel pick-up connection (5), fuel return connection (6), fuel drain connection (7), fuel-gap sending unit (8), and fuel level switch. An electric pump (10) feeds fuel from the tank (1), through a combination fuel filter/ water separator (11), on to the engine’s fuel injection pump (12). An auxiliary fuel transfer pump (13) allows the generator to operate using an auxiliary fuel source.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

  1. DESCRIPTION AND USE OF OPERATORS CONTROLS AND INDICATORS.

 

  1. Prior to placing the generator set into operation, personnel must be familiar with the location and function of all switches, controls and indicators.  Controls and indicators required for generator set operation are described below and identified on Figure 2-1.

  (1) HOURS Meter. Indicates hours of generator set operation.   (2) FUEL LEVEL Meter. Indicates amount of fuel remaining in the generator set fuel tank.   (3) VOLTAGE Meter. Indicates generator set output voltage.   (4) LOAD Meter. Indicates generator load in kilowatts.   (5) DC CIRCUIT BREAKER. Trips to stop generator set operation in case of electrical surge in DC control system.  Push to reset breaker.   (6) Fault Indication Module. Contains lights that indicate generator set operation conditions.  Includes the following indicator lights:   (a) ENGINE HIGH TEMP fault (red)   (b) LOW OIL PRESSURE fault (red)   (c) NO FUEL fault (red)   (d) OVERVOLTAGE fault (red) (e) OVERLOAD SHORT CIRCUIT fault (red)   (f) BATTLE SHORT ON fault (yellow)   (7) Dual purpose FAULT RESET/PUSH TEST switch allows operator to test indicator lights before operation, and reset fault isolation module after fault has been remedied.   (8) BATTLE SHORT Switch.  Two-position switch that allows generator set operation under certain fault conditions.   (9) CONVENIENCE RECEPTACLE.  (60Hz only) Single phase duplex receptacle which allows 120VAC appliance or tool connection.   (10) GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER (GFCI).  (60Hz only) Provides automatic circuit interruption and circuit protection for the convenience receptacle.   (11) SLAVE RECEPTACLE.  Allows for 24VDC auxiliary power      connection for starting generator set.   (12) GND Terminal.  Generator set ground terminal.   (13) L1, L2, N Terminals.  Generator set alternating current (L1, L2) and neutral (N) terminals.   (14) CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER Switch.  Two position switch that applies generator voltage to the output terminal board.   (a) CLOSED position signals AC circuit interrupter, to close, applying voltage to the terminal board.   (b) OPEN position opens AC circuit interrupter, terminating current to the load.   (15) CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER Indicator.  Lights when      CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER switch is in the CLOSED position, indicating load is being applied to the terminal board.   (16) VOLTAGE ADJUST Rheostat.  Allows operator to adjust generator set output voltage.   (17) START/RUN/STOP Switch.  Three-position switch that controls generator set operation.   (18) START position activates engine starter. Spring            loaded.  Must be held in position.   (a) RUN position cuts electrical power to the starter.  Energizes all circuits required for normal operation.   (b) OFF position opens the circuit to the engine fuel transfer pump and governor control, stopping fuel flow to the engine and shutting down the generator set.       (19) PREHEAT Switch.  Two-position switch that controls the engine preheat system.   (a) ON position sends a signal to engine preheat contactor to energize the engine air heater.  Used during cold weather operation.   (b) OFF position de-energizes the engine air heater, halting engine preheat operations.   (20) AUX FUEL Switch.  Two-position switch that allows the generator set to operate using an auxiliary fuel source.   (a) ON position allows a three-position fuel level switch to regulate auxiliary fuel flow into the fuel tank.   (b) OFF position de-energizes auxiliary fuel circuit, preventing the auxiliary fuel pump from operating.   (21) EMERGENCY STOP Switch.   A push-button switch that opens the AC circuit interrupter and disconnects power to the governor control, which causes the generator set to shut down.   (22) Engine Start Handle (Pull-Start).  Allows for manual start of the generator set engine.  Activates engine’s recoil starter assembly.   (23) FUEL DRAIN PLUG.  Allows personnel to drain generator set fuel tank.  It is connected to a fuel drain line.   (24) ENGINE OIL DRAIN PLUG.  Allows personnel to drain engine oil sump.  It is connected to an oil drain line.   (25) TEMPERATURE Switch.  Monitors temperature inside the generator set enclosure.  Activates ventilation fan when temperature reaches 85°F. (29°C)   (26) FUEL LEVEL Switch.  Three-position switch that monitors fuel level in the generator set fuel tank.  Controls auxiliary fuel transfer relay when the AUX FUEL switch is in the ON position.   (27) FUEL LEVEL SENDER.  Sends generator set fuel tank level data to FUEL LEVEL meter.     (28) LUBRICATING OIL PRESSURE Switch. Monitors engine oil pressure.  If oil pressure drops below 15 PSI, the switch closes the circuit to energize the fault lockout relay and shuts down the engine.  The LOW OIL PRESSURE indicator on the fault indicator module will light.   (29) GOVERNOR CONTROL. Control Engine’s mechanical governor to adjust engine speed.   (30) ENGINE TEMPERATURE Switch. Monitors engine temperature.  If engine temperature rises above 265°F the switch closes the circuit and shuts down the engine.  The ENGINE HIGH TEMP indicator on fault indicator module will light.   (31) ENGINE OIL FILL CAP and GAUGE. Allows for engine oil servicing.  Gauge in cap measure crankcase oil level.   (32) FUEL FILL CAP. Allows for generator set fuel servicing using a fill tank or fuel nozzle.  Includes a mesh fuel strainer.   (33) AUXILIARY FUEL CAP. Allows for connection of an auxiliary fuel hose.                                                                                                                              

  1. GROUNDING.

 

  1. Grounding of generators to earth is essential to place the generator at earth potential, preventing hazards to operators and draining static charges or stray current harmlessly to earth.  The generator neutral output terminal (LO) is intentionally bonded to the generator grounding terminal on its frame or chassis which is then connected to earth.  No current flows in the protective ground conductor unless there is a fault.
  2. NEUTRAL IS NOT A GROUND!  It carries current when the generator is supplying a load.
  3. Generators are grounded to an Earth Ground System (EGS) consisting of one or more rods connected in parallel. The EGS resistance must be 10 ohms or less.  The generator is connected to the EGS using the shortest practical length of #6AWG copper wire or larger.  Ideally the conductor would be insulated, and five feet or less in length to the nearest EGS.

 

  1. Never attempt to start a generator set if it is not properly grounded.  Failure to observe this warning could result in serious injury or death by electrocution.
  2. Connect Ground and Cable as Follows: (Refer to Table 2-2 on page 18.)
  3. MEP-831A GENERATOR SET OPERATIONS.

    (1) Open Load terminal cover. Insert cable (1, Figure 2-2) through slot on generator set GND load terminal (2).  Tighten terminal nut using wrench.   (2) Connect coupling (3) to ground rod (4) and screw driving stud (5) into coupling.  Make sure that driving stud seats on ground rod.   (3) Drive ground rod (4) into ground until coupling (3) is just above the ground surface.   (4) Remove driving stud (5) and install another section of ground rod (4).  Install another coupling (3) and driving stud.   (5) Drive ground rod (4) down until new coupling (3) is just above the ground surface.   (6) Repeat steps 4 and 5 until ground rod has been driven 8 feet or deeper, providing an effective ground. Connect clamp (6) and ground cable (1) to ground rod (4).  Tighten clamp and screw securely to prevent movement.   (7) Ground rod must be installed within five feet or less from the generator.                        

  1. Before Operations PMCS. A before operations check is exactly what it sounds like, certain checks that are performed before a piece of equipment is operated. This is also known as a “360°,” since 360o is a complete circle. As the operator you will do a complete inspection of the equipment, visually and manually inspecting the piece of gear.

  (1) Before operating any electrical equipment, ensure that the equipment is properly grounded with 10 ohms or less.  !WARNING! Electrocution Hazard Electrical high voltage cannot be seem but if can kill you, render you unconscious, or severely burned.  Failure to observe safety precautions may result in serious injury or death.           (2) Inspect the housing, air ducts, exhaust grills, door fasteners and hinges for obstructions, serviceability and proper operation.

 !WARNING!Exposed fuel and fuel vapor can ignite or explode, resulting in possible serious injury or death.

             (3) Ensure the acoustical material is free of damage or not missing.   (4) Inspect the skid bases to ensure that they are not corroded or cracked.   (5) Inspect the fill neck strainer for damage. Inspect vented fuel cap and auxiliary fuel connection for obvious damage or leakage.   (6) Ensure the identification plates are secured and are in place.   (7) Inspect the control box to ensure all switches, meters, indicators and terminals are operational.   (8) Check convenience receptacle for signs of electrical short and corrosion.   (9) Ensure NATO slave receptacle has no damage or shows any signs of electrical shock or corrosion.   (10) Ensure the output panel door locking latch operates properly, also check the load and ground terminals to ensure they are securely attached.   (11) Check exhaust system for cracks, holes, or dents.   (12) Inspect muffler for damage.   (13) Ensure the engine fuel system components are free from damage or leaks.   (14) Inspect and drain fuel filter/water separator.   (15) Inspect areas around the oil filter and oil drain hose for leaks. Remove oil fill cap and check oil level.   (16) Ensure air filter is not clogged.  

  1. Starting Procedures.
  2. During Operations PMCS.

  (1) Push in DC CIRCUIT BREAKER.   (2) Place START/RUN/STOP switch in the start position. (switch is spring loaded and must be held in place) Release switch to RUN position once the engine starts.   (3) Adjust voltage as required by using the VOLTAGE ADJUST rheostat.   (4) Place the AC CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER switch in the CLOSED position.     (1) Monitor the voltage and load output levels.   (2) Monitor fuel level.   (3) Look, listen and smell for anything unusual coming from the generator set.        

  1. Shutdown Procedures.

  (1) Place the AC CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER switch in the OPEN position. Allow the generator 3-5 minutes to cool down the engine.   (2) Place the START/RUN/STOP switch in the STOP position.   (3) Pull out the DC CIRCUIT BREAKER.    

NOTEGENERATOR MUST BE SHUT DOWN EVERY 8 HOURS TO SERVICE OIL AND FUEL WATER SEPERATOR. (SEE TABLE 2-1 ITEM 16 & 17)
  1. After Operations PMCS.

  (1) Inspect the housing, air ducts, exhaust grills, door fasteners and hinges for obstructions, serviceability and proper operation.   (2) Ensure the acoustical material is free of damage or not missing.   (3) Inspect the skid bases to ensure they are not corroded or cracked.   (4) Inspect the fill neck strainer for damage. Inspect vented fuel cap and auxiliary fuel connection for obvious damage or leakage.   (5) Ensure the identification plates are secured and are in place.   (6) Inspect the control box to ensure all switches, meters, indicators and terminals are operational.   (7) Check convenience receptacle for signs of electrical short and corrosion.   (8) Ensure NATO slave receptacle has no damage or shows any signs of electrical shock or corrosion.   (9) Ensure the output panel door locking latch operates properly also check the load and ground terminals for security of attachment.   (10) Check exhaust system for cracks, holes, or dents.   (11) Inspect muffler for damage.   (12) Ensure the engine fuel system components are free from damage or leaks.   (13) Inspect and drain fuel filter/ water separator.   (14) Inspect areas around the oil filter and oil drain hose for leaks. Remove oil fill cap and check oil level.   (15) Ensure air filter is not clogged.    

NOTE The before during and after operations checks are listed on Table 2-1 on pages 22-28.
  1. PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE CHECKS AND SERVICES (PMCS).
  2. Visual and Physical Inspection. Before any type of maintenance can be performed, the first thing that needs to be done is a thorough visual and physical inspection of the equipment, along with documenting discrepancies on the NAVMC 10560 Technical Inspection form. As an incidental operator, you are not required to fill this form out, but you will be present at the time the inspection is conducted. There will be an inspection conducted when the equipment is issued and when it is returned. This inspection will include but not be limited to.

 

WARNINGExposed fuel and fuel vapor can ignite or explode, resulting in possible serious injury or death.WARNINGEngine exhaust gas (Carbon Monoxide) is a deadly odorless, colorless, poisonous gas. Avoid breathing it.

             (1) Check For Different Types of Leaks:   (a) Class 1. Seepage of fluids (as indicated by wetness or discoloration) not enough to form drops.   (b) Class 2. Leakage of fluids, enough to form drops but not enough to cause drops to drip from item/equipment being checked or inspected.   (c) Class 3. Leakage of fluids, enough to form drops that fall from the item/equipment being checked or inspected.   (2) Damaged or broken parts.   (3) Frayed wires.   (4) Missing parts.          (5) Ensuring the equipment is grounded.  

NOTERemember the Ditty: “There are no leaks! There are no Loose, Damaged, or Missing Components! There are no Burnt, Frayed, or Missing Wires!

      

  1. 7. FINDING REQUIRED MAINTENANCE. (Refer to Table 2-2)

 

  1. When the need for preventive maintenance has been identified, the operator must turn to the right place to find exactly what to do.
  2. Each piece of equipment has specific requirements to keep it running in peek condition. Because most pieces of equipment are different, the operator should check the appropriate Technical Manual (TM) for instructions on when and how to conduct preventive maintenance.
  3.   Notice from the chart located on pages 10-11, procedures are listed on equipment needed to perform the PM. Under the “interval” column the operator can find what hour the maintenance will be performed at.

        

  1. 8. REMOVING PARTS DURING MAINTENANCE.

 

  1. Removing Parts. When attempting to remove parts while performing maintenance on any mobile electric power piece of equipment the following needs to be accomplished:

  (1) Get the TM and go to the Alphabetical Index at the back of the TM.   (2) Look up the item or items that you will be working on.   (3) You Will Find the Removing Steps, for Example:   (a) Replacing the fuel filter goes to the Index and finds operators maintenance.   (b) Once you have found operators maintenance look at the list of repairs that you can do you will find the fuel filter and strainer assembly.   (c) There you are going to have a paragraph number.                       Table 2-2                                           Table 2-2

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