202204 – McGregor – Motor Generators, 240V (MEN) and Isolated Power Supplies for Signalling

In NSW country areas we have historically used diesel motor generator sets to provide 120V AC power to operate signalling equipment in the field. With new technologies with electronics/inverters and the drive to use COTS (Commercial off the shelf) equipment we are using 240V commercial generator sets as opposed to the customised (e.g., Lister brand) old style generator sets at 120V AC.

With updates to AS3000 and AS3010 in the past few years for generator sets are we sure that our wiring installations are up with the latest when using 240V commercial wiring practices?

This paper has a brief look at some of the history with motor generator sets. Discusses some of the changes that have been undertaken over the years Look at MEN (Multiple Earth Neutral), Earthing surge protection, wiring and installation practices against current AS3000 and AS3010. Provide some recommendations for future installation of backup power supplies, motor gen sets, and surge protection using COTS equipment for signalling power supplies.