Critical Applications
Critical Applications | Generators | Electrical | Jellico
When the stakes are high and downtime is not an option, HEP delivers the heartbeat of Jellico’s critical infrastructure. Our industrial-grade generators stand ready to safeguard hospitals, telecom hubs, data centers, and emergency-response facilities with seamless, automatic power transfer the instant the grid falters. Engineered for harsh environments and mission-critical loads, each system is precision-matched to your site, rigorously tested, and backed by real-time monitoring that keeps you a step ahead of any interruption.
From turnkey design and installation to round-the-clock field service, we handle every detail in-house so you can focus on the mission at hand. EPA-compliant fuel options, modular scalability, and intelligent controls mean your operation stays efficient today and adaptable tomorrow. Trust HEP to keep Jellico powered, protected, and prepared—because in critical moments, only dependable generators will do.
FAQs
What types of generators are best suited for critical applications in Jellico?
For mission-critical operations—such as hospitals, data centers, emergency services, and industrial processes—standby or prime-rated generators with rapid start capability are recommended. Diesel generators are most common because they provide high power density and fast response, while natural-gas units are popular where a reliable gas utility is available and lower emissions are desired. In Jellico’s climate, units with factory-installed engine block heaters and robust enclosure insulation are preferred to guarantee cold-weather starts.
How do I determine the correct generator size for my facility?
Begin by listing all loads that must stay online during an outage. Record running kW, starting kVA (especially for motors, HVAC compressors, and pumps), and any future expansion plans. Add the running kW values, then apply a diversity factor if some loads will never operate together. Next, add the highest single motor’s starting kVA (or use soft-start/ VFD data if applicable) to ensure the generator can handle inrush currents. A safety margin of 15–20 % is typical. Because sizing errors can be costly or dangerous, we always recommend an on-site assessment with a licensed Jellico electrical engineer who can perform a detailed load study and harmonic analysis.
What maintenance schedule should I follow for a critical-use generator?
Critical generators require proactive maintenance to ensure they start every time. Industry best practices and NFPA 110 guidelines suggest: • Weekly: Visual inspection, fluid levels, battery voltage, and automatic transfer switch (ATS) status. • Monthly: No-load test run for 30 minutes, verify that the generator reaches operating temperature and returns to standby without alarms. • Quarterly: Inspect belts, hoses, and air filters; check coolant additives and fuel condition; test block heater and battery charger. • Semi-Annually: Change oil and filters, fuel filters, and perform infrared scan of electrical connections. • Annually: Full load-bank test at 80–100 % of rated kW for 2 hours, coolant flush (as required), and comprehensive control panel firmware update. Keeping digital maintenance logs and subscribing to a remote monitoring service greatly improve reliability.
Are there specific codes or permits required to install a generator in Jellico?
Yes. All generator installations in Jellico must comply with the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC), local amendments adopted by the City of Jellico Building & Codes Department, and NFPA 110 for emergency power systems. A building/electrical permit is required, and plans must show generator placement, fuel storage, exhaust routing, and sound attenuation. Installations over 50 kW or those using above-ground fuel tanks also require approval from the Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation (TDEC) and the local fire marshal. We handle permitting and coordinate all inspections to ensure full compliance.
How can I guarantee seamless switchover between utility power and the generator?
An automatic transfer switch (ATS) paired with your generator senses utility loss and commands the generator to start—typically within 1 second—then transfers the load once voltage and frequency are stable. For zero-downtime applications, closed-transition or bypass-isolation ATS models ensure overlapping power so sensitive electronics never see an interruption. Integrating uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) can cover the sub-second window before the generator reaches full speed. Remote monitoring platforms send real-time alerts and allow manual control from any web device, adding another layer of assurance.
What fuel options are available, and which is best for critical applications?
The three common fuels are diesel, natural gas, and propane: • Diesel: Widely used for critical standby because of high energy density, quick ramp-up, and ease of onsite storage. Must follow ASTM D975 specs and include fuel polishing for long-term storage. • Natural Gas: Ideal where a robust gas utility exists; offers lower emissions, quieter operation, and no onsite fuel storage. Vulnerable if the gas network is disrupted by the same event causing the power outage. • Propane (LPG): Clean burning and storable indefinitely in pressurized tanks; often chosen in areas lacking natural-gas service. Requires larger tanks to achieve long runtimes. Selection depends on runtime requirements, environmental regulations, and fuel supply resiliency. We perform a risk assessment to recommend the optimal fuel strategy for each client in Jellico.