MIL-SPEC Lightweight Diesel Generator
Daronmont Technologies approached APC Technology to partner on a project supplying diesel generators to the Australian defence forces.
The key requirements were to meet specifications based on size, weight, output and the fact that it needed to perform and survive in rugged conditions. This included extreme temperatures, altitude and weather conditions.
To achieve the requirements APC Technology partnered with a South Australian generator manufacturer with more than thirty years of experience to support the build. The company did not have the defence background or the expertise to design the generator to specifications. APC has a proven depth and breadth of experience in understanding and applying defence standards. By bringing together the skill sets APC were able to design a more compact but highly efficient and highly usable generator.
Achieving a lightweight, smaller generator
The engineering team brain-stormed a number of options for the framework which would afford a reduction in weight. The choice was aluminum rather than steel. Aluminum, has a density of approximately three times less than steel, therefore making it three times lighter.
To make it smaller the team chose to incorporate a 3000RPM engine instead of the standard 1500RPM. This was smaller and enabled us to fit it in the envelope.
The value-add of in-house capabilities
APC Technology has continued to develop their skills and technologies to stay ahead of the curve. An area of notably investment has been our in- house capabilities whether through up-skilling staff or ensuring we have the latest technologies at hand. For example the electrical box within the generator had internal components that were not rated to the low temperatures specified. We were able to complete in house confidence testing in our thermal chamber allowing us to certify them for the customer.
Though we have an in-house shock and vibration table it has the limitation on the maximum size and weight it can test. We user SolidWorks Simulation which allows us to conduct finer element analysis. The software allows us to perform shock and vibe testing in the software, eliminating the need to send it to compliance test house which adds cost and time to the production.
Specifications for Daronmont Bespoke Generator
- Small footprint – 2.438m W x 1.5m H X 0.9m D
- Compliant to ISO1161 (mounting for shipping containers)
- Designed to survive arctic temperatures (down to -32°C)
- Able to survive desert heat (rated to 49°C at 3% humidity and a solar load of 730 W/m^2)
- Operational up to 5000ft
- Suitable for hot humid climates (28°C at 95% humidity)
- Dust and water resistant (IP55)
- Lightweight aluminum frame (~1200kg)
- Designed to withstand shock and vibration of all modes of transport
- Long lasting fuel efficiency (8hr full load runtime without the need to refuel)
- Quiet running (<75dB under full load)
- 40KW @ 0.8 power factor (50KVA)
- Low power operation (able to run at 15KVA continuous)
- 2x 400V power outlets
- 2x 230V power outlets
- Network connected (able to be monitored/stopped/started over a network connection)
"APC Technology brought a capability we not have in house. They have a deep understanding of the generator design and impressed us with their support and proactive responses."
Duncan Groome, Chief Engineer.
To read more about out Environmental Testing and capabilities or speak to an expert on 08 8363 0400.