Genset GA
Generator package
A generic generating-package envelope linked to official equipment and installation drawings.
GA objects
Symbols · DG
Diesel generator set
A compression-ignition engine coupled to an alternator, shown as a source on microgrid and standby power single-line diagrams.
In plain English
What does Diesel generator set mean?
A diesel generator set combines a diesel engine, an alternator, a controller and usually a generator breaker into one package. On a microgrid single-line diagram it is the dispatchable source that sets voltage and frequency when the utility is absent, or that supports the battery during long periods of low renewable output.
A simple example
It is commonly drawn as a generator circle with an engine box or the letters DG or D beside the mechanical coupling, followed by the generator breaker and its protection relay. Ratings are often written as prime, continuous or standby, because the same set can carry different loads under each duty definition.
What the drawings help you do
The symbol does not tell you minimum loading limits, fuel autonomy or the governor and regulator settings needed to share load with other sources. Light loading of diesel engines causes wet stacking, so microgrid controls often maintain a minimum genset load that the diagram does not show.
This particular reference
A compression-ignition engine coupled to an alternator, shown as a source on microgrid and standby power single-line diagrams. A diesel set uses compression ignition and liquid fuel; a gas engine set uses spark ignition and gaseous fuel with different load-acceptance behaviour.
- Coil
- A wound conductor that can produce a magnetic field when energised.
- Signal
- Electrical information passed between devices, rather than necessarily the main power supply.
- Rating
- A value stating the conditions for which equipment is specified.
Read the source: T-030 liquid-cooled generator set application manual · Generator switchgear and paralleling controls
SLD · DG
What it represents
A diesel generator set combines a diesel engine, an alternator, a controller and usually a generator breaker into one package. On a microgrid single-line diagram it is the dispatchable source that sets voltage and frequency when the utility is absent, or that supports the battery during long periods of low renewable output.
It is commonly drawn as a generator circle with an engine box or the letters DG or D beside the mechanical coupling, followed by the generator breaker and its protection relay. Ratings are often written as prime, continuous or standby, because the same set can carry different loads under each duty definition.
The symbol does not tell you minimum loading limits, fuel autonomy or the governor and regulator settings needed to share load with other sources. Light loading of diesel engines causes wet stacking, so microgrid controls often maintain a minimum genset load that the diagram does not show.
How to read it
- Check whether the rating shown is standby, prime or continuous.
- Follow the controller connections to see whether the set can parallel with other sources.
Information to show or reference
- State kVA, kW, power factor and duty rating.
- Show generator breaker and neutral earthing.
- Reference controller and fuel system drawings.
A distinction that matters
A diesel set uses compression ignition and liquid fuel; a gas engine set uses spark ignition and gaseous fuel with different load-acceptance behaviour.
Sources you can follow
These public references support the explanation and provide further detail. Their graphics and downloadable files remain with their publishers.
T-030 liquid-cooled generator set application manual
Public generator-set application manual for ratings and installation context.
Generator switchgear and paralleling controls
Public generator switchgear and paralleling control context.
About this graphic
This illustration was authored independently by Elora Grid to explain the concept. It is not reproduced from a customer drawing, an official standard graphic or a manufacturer CAD file. Its correspondence to an exact IEC or IEEE symbol identifier has not been certified.
SVG and DXF downloads contain this original artwork. DXF uses unscaled drawing units; a GA envelope supplies no product dimensions, clearances or fabrication information. Original artwork is available under CC BY 4.0. Third-party references retain their own terms.
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