Sustainable productivity solutions provider Atlas Copco Power Technique’s new prime power TwinPower containerised generators, the QAC 1100 and QAC 1450, are a well-suited power solution for applications requiring variable power needs.

“The economic viability of the two models means that end-users receive twice the power and double the flexibility on a single compact platform,” says Atlas Copco Power Technique business line manager for portable products David Stanford.

The advanced TwinPower concept offers two fully loaded generators housed in one standardised 20-ft certified container. “The positioning of the two generators, containing two 500 kVA generators in the QAC 1100 version or two 725 kVA generators in the QAC 1450 version, on one platform provides the best solution to clients and end-users that require changeable power and current usage options. In addition to solving variable load issues, this arrangement also reduces fuel consumption with savings of up to 10%,” Stanford explains.

The TwinPower generators offer increased flexibility as the controllers allow for different operation variations, where the two generators can work independently or in parallel with each other or even in parallel with other generators.

The QAC 1450 – powered by V8 Scania engines with double bearing alternators – is a containerised generator that offers unrivalled load acceptance ability owing to the two-engine/two-alternator performance, which is able to accept a 100% load step with more than 70% load step acceptance within its class.

Stanford further notes that the performance of these generators is equal to, or sometimes better than, a conventional single engine generator running under normal load because end-users can choose to use island mode or a power management system, which can run in parallel with mains power, peak shaving, mains power export or import, fixed power and automatic mains failure, which switches on automatically if the mains fail.The QAC 1450 includes a touch screen with easy functionality.

The containerised generators are specifically created for mobility and feature a compact footprint equipped with solid lifting eyes and forklift inlets, enabling the container to be easily manoeuvered onto flat-bed trucks for safe transportation and positioning on the plant.

“Atlas Copco generators are renowned for rugged reliability and efficiency over an extended life span and the QAC 1100 and QAC 1450 units stay true to these high standards,” Stanford declares.

He says the superior quality components are tested under strenuous conditions, adding that the robust TwinPower generators are well-suited for use in challenging conditions and at high altitudes with reduced risk of performance loss owing to high temperatures. The generator system features an advanced engine/alternator cooling system that guarantees that it will run at maximum power with no de-rating up to 43 ºC and 50 ºC respectively at an altitude of 1 000 m.

Maintenance was a prime consideration during the design of the TwinPower system, with the unit requiring less than two hours of service after 500 hours of operation.

Large access doors and custom service tools contribute to this easy maintenance and ultimately promote prolonged uptime and increased production levels. “The strategic positioning of the two generators’ engine and alternator on opposite sides of the platform allow for easy access to major components.

“Moreover, one generator can run at 50% while the other is being serviced, meaning end-users can still benefit from half of the unit’s total capacity during maintenance operations. It’s a built-in backup unit for seamless and continuous power supply,” adds Stanford.

The smart design of the TwinPower generators also strictly adheres to global environmental standards. In addition to the machines’ reduced fuel consumption, which minimises the use of natural resources, a spillage-free frame can hold 110% of the machines’ fluid capacity.