Gas Generator Set suits combined heat and power applications.

Press Release Summary:



Driven by Cat electronically controlled, lean-burn gaseous-fueled reciprocating engine, Model G3512E delivers up to 41.7% ISO electrical efficiency without water pumps. Unit operates at 50 Hz/1,500 rpm with Miller Combustion Cycle, is rated at 1,000 ekW, and has standard NOx emissions rating of 500 mg/MM3 at separate circuit aftercooler inlet water temperature of 54°C. Open combustion chamber design allows for low-pressure fuel system of 10-35 kPa.



Original Press Release:



Caterpillar Introduces High-Efficiency G3512E Gas Generator Set for Distributed Generation and CHP Applications



(Peoria, IL) - Caterpillar Inc. announces the availability of the G3512E advanced natural-gas-fueled generator set, designed for maximum efficiency in extended-duty distributed generation and combined heat and power (CHP) applications.

Driven by a Cat electronically controlled, lean-burn gaseous-fueled reciprocating engine, the G3512E generator set was designed to offer a high power density and excellent fuel efficiency while maintaining tight NOx control. It provides flexibility to operate on pipeline natural gas with a wide range of methane numbers without sacrificing efficiency and performance, and delivers up to 41.7% ISO electrical efficiency without water pumps.

The Cat® G3512E generator set operates at 50 Hz/1500 rpm with Miller Combustion Cycle, is rated at 1000 ekW, and has a standard NOx emissions rating of 500 mg/NM3 at a separate circuit aftercooler (SCAC) inlet water temperature of 54°C. It is built on a heavy-duty diesel-based platform and uses an advanced camshaft and turbocharger design to achieve high mechanical efficiency. It additionally features an open combustion chamber design, which allows for a low-pressure fuel system of 10 to 35 kPa. "Today, more people realize that distributed generation with combined heat and power is a multi-benefit solution to meet their increasing electric power demand," said Tom Lee, Caterpillar Electric Power Gas Engineering Manager. "The key drivers are customers' desire for higher total system efficiency and return on investment while maintaining high reliability. This solution requires a gas package generator set with high electrical efficiency, low long-term operating cost, and low emission levels that meet stringent local regulations. The G3512E is an ideal product for customers who have base load applications as well as extended-hour peak sharing or peak shaving."

Standard on the Cat G3512E generator set is a digital microprocessor Gas Engine Control Module, which automatically and precisely regulates ignition, engine governing and air/fuel ratio for optimum fuel economy and stringent NOx control. Its patent pending, technologically advanced air/fuel ratio control monitors charge air density and maintains NOx within tight tolerances under a variety of ambient and load conditions. It features an individual-cylinder detonation sensing and timing control, with a prechamber-type spark plug design for extended service life without adjustment. Additional functionality includes an emergency stop fuel-purge cycle, and programmable protective relaying functions.

The generator set is easily tailored to specific applications with a wide selection of Cat SR4B generators and generator set attachments. Additional features include exhaust options, alarm and remote annunciator modules, and battery chargers. It is also available with an optional 250 mg/NM3 NOx emissions setting, and 54°C SCAC temperature rating.

The Cat G3512E generator set is built and packaged at the Caterpillar Large Engine Center in Lafayette, Indiana. "Caterpillar has been putting significant resources into developing the right gas products for the electric power market. These products bring our customers not only economic values but also broader benefits to our society," said Lee. "The G3512E is just one example of the world-class product and technology coming from the gas engine center of excellence in Lafayette, Indiana. These products will assist our customers in achieving sustainable development."

Caterpillar is helping to lead the power generation marketplace with power systems engineered to deliver unmatched flexibility, expandability, reliability and cost-effectiveness.

Caterpillar offers worldwide product support, with parts and service available globally through the Cat service and dealer network. In addition, Cat dealer service technicians are trained to service every aspect of Cat equipment.

For more than 80 years, Caterpillar Inc. has been making progress possible and driving positive and sustainable change on every continent. With 2008 sales and revenues of $51.324 billion, Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, and industrial gas turbines.

For more information on Cat generator sets and continuous power systems, or to find the local Cat dealer nearest you, please visit us on the web at www.cat-electricpower.com or e-mail cat_power@cat.com. For a specification sheet on the Cat G3512E gas generator set, visit go.cateps.com/pr.

CAT, CATERPILLAR, their respective logos, "Caterpillar Yellow" and the "Power Edge" trade dress, as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.

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