What Is a Motor Generator Set?
A motor generator set (M-G set) is a device that converts electrical power from one form to another. It consists of a motor and a generator, which are mechanically coupled to each other. The motor is powered by an external source of electricity, and the generator produces electricity at a different voltage, frequency or phase.
Motor generator sets are used in a variety of industries and applications, including:
- Military, Naval and Air Force Base Applications: M-G sets are used in military applications where reliable power is essential. For example, M-G sets are used to power ships and aircraft, and they are also used to power field hospitals.
- Oil/Gas Production and Exploration: Horlick has built M-G sets for naval ships that tow oil rigs and the rigs themselves, both of which have sensitive equipment that can experience failures from electrical noise in the system. M-G sets can provide a clean source of power in these situations.
- Defense and Aerospace: Both of these industries use 400 Hz power frequency because transformers, motors, instruments and other equipment can be made smaller and lighter when they run at this frequency. Since utility power is 50 or 60 Hz, defense and aerospace facilities require a M-G set to convert this frequency to 400 Hz.
- Missile and Ground Support Operations: Like the applications above, missile and ground support operations need a clean source of power at 400 Hz.
- Computer and Data Center Applications: M-G sets provide clean, reliable power for computer and data center systems. They can help to protect these systems from power outages and other disruptions.
- Medical and Industrial Applications: M-G sets are used in medical and industrial applications where clean, reliable power is essential. For example, M-G sets are used to power life support equipment in hospitals, and they are also used to power critical machinery in industrial plants.
Types of Motor Generator Sets
There are many different types of motor generator sets available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common types of M-G sets are:
- 60-50 Hz: Commonly used by U.S. manufacturers to test their products for a foreign market, as the U.S. uses 60 Hz power frequency while Europe and Asia use 50 Hz
- 50-60 Hz: Commonly used by U.S. manufacturers operating in other countries who need to convert power to 50 Hz for their existing equipment
- 60-400 Hz: Used by naval and air force bases, missile and ground support operations and manufacturers requiring 400 Hz power
- Line Conditioning (60-60 Hz): Provides a clean source of conditioned 60 Hz power free from utility faults, surges, switching transients and harmonic distortion; minimizes equipment damage, shutdown and data loss in areas with power fluctuations
- Variable Frequency: Used by manufacturers who want the flexibility of quickly switching the frequency in their test bays between 50 and 60 Hz; ideal for custom installations where flexibility and functionality are required
- Custom: Sometimes an unusual situation requires a completely custom build. Whether it requires a weather-resistant or sound-reduced enclosure, control system, or other customization, Horlick has the experience needed to create the perfect M-G set for your application.
How Does a Motor Generator Set Work?
M-G sets work by using the mechanical energy from the motor to rotate the generator. The generator then produces electrical energy at a different voltage, frequency or phase than the input power.
The motor and generator in an M-G set are mechanically coupled to each other. This means that they are connected by a shaft that allows them to rotate at the same speed. The motor is powered by an external source of electricity, and the generator produces electricity at the same frequency as the input power.
If the output power from the generator is required to be at a different frequency than the input power, then a frequency converter is used. The frequency converter converts the output power from the generator to the desired frequency.
Advantages of Motor Generator Sets
There are many advantages to using M-G sets, including:
- Clean, reliable power: M-G sets produce clean, reliable power that is free from noise and interference. This makes them ideal for applications where sensitive electronic equipment is used.
- Load isolation: M-G sets provide load isolation, which means that the output power is not affected by changes in the input power. This makes them ideal for applications where a constant power supply is required.
- Frequency conversion: M-G sets can be used to convert frequency, which makes them ideal for applications where a specific frequency is required.
- Surge protection: M-G sets can provide surge protection, which means that they can protect sensitive electronic equipment from power surges.
- Long lifespan: M-G sets have a long lifespan, which makes them a cost-effective investment.
Disadvantages of Motor Generator Sets
There are also some disadvantages to using M-G sets, including:
- High initial cost: M-G sets have a high initial cost; Horlick offers rentals which may be a more cost-effective solution than ownership.
- Complex installation: M-G sets are complex to install, which requires specialized skills and knowledge. With our decades of experience, Horlick is a trusted partner who can handle every aspect of installation.
- Requires regular maintenance: M-G sets require regular maintenance, which can be costly.
