Generator AVR – What is the AVR? | Knowledge Base.
The Generator AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulator) is a crucial device in modern diesel generators that stabilizes power output voltage within manufacturer specifications. Its absence or failure can lead to fluctuating voltages, causing issues in equipment operation. Indicators of a failing AVR include erratic engine behavior and frequency fluctuations on the control panel. If an AVR fails, the generator may lose excitation, leading to a sudden voltage drop and potential shutdown due to under-voltage faults. Immediate professional replacement of a faulty AVR is recommended.
The Generator AVR is a small electronic device that sits on the alternator monitoring the power output. You may never even notice it. This small electronic device automatically maintains the generator electrical output terminal voltage within pre-set manufacturers parameters.
The Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) is usually fitted on all modern diesel generators to maintain constant voltages. It’s like a type of power conditioning, ensuring that the generator power to the site equipment load remains constant. Without a functioning AVR the generator output could vary widely, causing disruption to the site. The AVR smooth’s out the constant power output of the generator.
How do I know that my AVR is working?
If your generator is working fine- No AVR problem Never look for an issue when there are non. How would I know if there is NO AVR Fitted?
Certainly all modern diesel generators have an AVR fitted as standard How would I know if the AVR has failed?
Generator hunting and surging randomly or erratically. This can occur when the generator is under load, whereas before the generator was running perfectly normally then suddenly your generator struggles.
You’ll first become aware of this, because you’ll hear the engine struggling or hunting randomly.
Check the control panel for frequency fluctuations.
You may find that on the control panel you can see the frequency drop and rise erratically whilst you’re watching. Watch the video for an example how a failed AVR affects the generator output.
What happens when a Diesel Generator AVR fails?
If the AVR on your generator fails, then the generator will loose excitation. This loss of excitation will cause the generator voltage to fall suddenly, or become sporadic.
This loss of AVR voltage will cause the generator to shut down on an under-voltage fault.
On a Deep Sea generator control panel will appear the words alarm-under voltage.
The AVR regulates voltage variations to deliver a constant, reliable power supply. Without an automatic voltage regulator,(AVR) the voltage can sag, spike or surge causing unstable electrical power.
Contact your generator supplier who can send out an engineer with a laptop to log into your control panel. Once inside the software, he can determine whether this is the AVR fault or not, fuel issue or it’s your site load is the issue.
Should an AVR require replacement then do so immediately. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REPAIR YOURSELF.
If you’re looking for a Generator AVR, call us on 0845 055 8455, we’re here to help!