Multiple Gensets and Dual Mains Paralleling System Explained

Introduction

In industrial facilities, commercial buildings, data centers, and other power-intensive applications, a stable and reliable power supply is essential.

When a single generator is not sufficient to meet the required power demand, multiple diesel generator sets can be connected in parallel. In some installations, two independent mains power sources are also integrated into the system to provide greater flexibility in power management.

A multiple genset and dual mains paralleling system allows several generators and utility power sources to operate through a coordinated electrical distribution system.

In this article, we will explore how this system works and introduce two SmartGen controllers commonly associated with this type of application: the HGM9510 and HGM9560.

1. What Is a Multiple Gensets and Dual Mains Paralleling System?

A multiple genset and dual mains paralleling system is designed to coordinate several generator sets with one or more utility power sources.

Unlike a conventional standby generator system, where a generator simply starts when the mains supply fails, a paralleling system can synchronize different power sources and manage their connection to a common busbar.

A typical system may include:

• Multiple diesel generator sets

• Two independent mains power supplies

• Generator paralleling controllers

• Mains and bus-tie paralleling controllers

• Generator circuit breakers and mains circuit breakers

• Common busbar and load distribution equipment

• MSC communication links

The number of generators and mains connections depends on the actual project requirements.

2. How Does the System Work?

In the example shown in the system diagram, three diesel generator sets are connected to a common busbar, together with two mains power sources.

Each generator set is equipped with a SmartGen HGM9510 controller, while the HGM9560 is used for bus-to-mains paralleling control.

The general operating process can be understood in several stages.

Step 1: Generator Starting and Synchronization

When generator power is required, the generator sets receive start commands and begin operating.

The HGM9510 controllers monitor generator voltage, frequency, phase angle, and other operating parameters.

Before connecting a generator to the common busbar, synchronization conditions must be satisfied.

Step 2: Multiple Generator Paralleling

After synchronization, the generator circuit breakers can be closed according to the configured control sequence.

The HGM9510 controllers coordinate generator paralleling and load sharing.

This allows multiple generator sets to operate together and supply the connected electrical load.

Step 3: Mains Paralleling

Once the generator bus is operating normally, the HGM9560 manages the configured bus-to-mains paralleling operation.

It monitors the relevant mains and bus conditions and controls the synchronization and breaker operation according to the selected operating mode.

Depending on the system configuration, the installation can support different operating strategies, including fixed power output, peak lopping, and load takeover.

Step 4: Power Management

During normal operation, the controllers coordinate the generator and mains operating conditions.

The system can be configured to manage power distribution according to the project's requirements.

This provides greater flexibility for industrial facilities and applications with changing power demands.

3. SmartGen HGM9510 – Multiple Genset Paralleling Controller

The SmartGen HGM9510 is designed for manual and automatic parallel operation of multiple generator sets.

It provides synchronization, load sharing, generator monitoring, and protection functions.

Key features include:

• Automatic and manual generator paralleling

• Generator synchronization

• Active and reactive load sharing

• GOV and AVR control functions

• Generator voltage and frequency monitoring

• CANBUS and RS485 communication

• Engine monitoring and protection

• Remote monitoring and control

The HGM9510 is suitable for generator systems where multiple gensets need to operate together to meet the required power demand.

For projects requiring more advanced communication and redundancy options, other models in the SmartGen product range may also be considered.

4. SmartGen HGM9560 – Bus Tie Mains Parallel Controller

The SmartGen HGM9560 is a Bus Tie Mains Parallel Unit designed for manual and automatic paralleling systems consisting of generator sets and one-way or multi-way mains supplies.

It plays an important role in coordinating the connection between the generator bus and the mains supply.

Key features include:

• Automatic and manual mains paralleling

• Bus-to-mains synchronization

• Mains monitoring and protection

• Automatic start/stop control

• Fixed active and reactive power control

• Peak lopping operation

• Load takeover operation

• RS485 communication

• Event logging and scheduled operation

The HGM9560 provides flexible control options for installations requiring coordinated generator and mains operation.

5. HGM9510 vs. HGM9560: What Is the Difference?

Although both controllers are designed for paralleling applications, they serve different roles within the system.

Feature	HGM9510	HGM9560
Main Application	Multiple genset paralleling	Bus-to-mains paralleling
Generator Synchronization	Yes	System-dependent
Genset Load Sharing	Yes	Not its primary role
Mains Paralleling	Configurable application	Main application
GOV / AVR Control	Yes	Not its primary role
Communication	CANBUS / RS485	RS485
Typical Application	Multi-generator systems	Generator and mains integration

Selecting the correct controller depends on the electrical architecture, operating requirements, and communication configuration of the project.

6. Applications of Multiple Genset Paralleling Systems

Multiple generator paralleling systems are widely used in applications where reliable and flexible power supply is important.

Typical applications include:

• Industrial manufacturing facilities

• Data centers and server rooms

• Hospitals and healthcare facilities

• Commercial buildings

• Mining and construction projects

• Large infrastructure projects

• Power plants and distributed power systems

By coordinating multiple generators and mains supplies, these systems can provide flexible power management for different operating conditions.

7. Looking for SmartGen HGM9510 or HGM9560 Controllers?

Choosing the right generator controller is important for the reliability and performance of a paralleling system.

At GenPartsTec, we supply generator controllers and related spare parts for different generator applications.

Our SmartGen product range includes generator controllers, paralleling controllers, and other genset control modules.

Whether you need a SmartGen HGM9510, HGM9560, or another generator control module, our team can assist with product information, model confirmation, and quotation support.

Contact GenPartsTec for:

• SmartGen generator controllers

• Original product supply

• Competitive wholesale quotations

• Worldwide shipping

• Product model and compatibility assistance

Visit our website: https://www.genpartstec.com/

Contact our sales team for pricing and availability.

GenPartsTec – Your Reliable Supplier of Generator Spare Parts.