Definition
Leroy Somer (Nidec Industrial) is a French alternator manufacturer. Series: TAL (7.5-50 kVA), LSA 40 (5-95 kVA), LSA 42 (40-190 kVA), LSA 44 (90-750 kVA), LSA 46 (300-1400 kVA), LSA 47 (750-1900 kVA),
Leroy Somer Alternator Series — TAL LSA Series (Nidec)
Overview
Leroy Somer (Nidec Industrial) is a French alternator manufacturer. Series: TAL (7.5-50 kVA), LSA 40 (5-95 kVA), LSA 42 (40-190 kVA), LSA 44 (90-750 kVA), LSA 46 (300-1400 kVA), LSA 47 (750-1900 kVA), LSA 49 (2000-5200 kVA). Features: AREP excitation (independent of load), SHUNT for simple applications. European equivalent to Stamford, widely used in marine and industrial applications.
Technical Capabilities
These alternators feature modern excitation systems, robust mechanical design, and compliance with international standards for power generation.
Applications
Widely used in diesel generator sets for standby, prime, and continuous power across all industries.
| Series | Power Range | Excitation | Typical Application | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LSA 40 | 5-95 kVA | SHUNT | Compact sets | |
| LSA 42.3 | 40-190 kVA | SHUNT/AREP | Commercial standby | |
| LSA 44.3 | 90-750 kVA | AREP | Industrial | Marine |
| LSA 46.3 | 300-1400 kVA | AREP/PMG | Heavy industrial | |
| LSA 47.2 | 750-1900 kVA | AREP/PMG | Large prime power | |
| LSA 49.3 | 2000-5200 kVA | AREP/PMG | Power plants |
| Parameter | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage Regulation | ±0.5-1.0% | Digital AVR |
| THD | <4% | Linear load |
| Protection | IP23 | Standard enclosure |
| Insulation | Class H | 180°C rated |
| Maintenance Item | Interval | Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winding resistance | Semi-annual | Micro-ohmmeter | Compare to baseline |
| Insulation test | Annual | Megger 500V | >1 MΩ minimum |
| Bearing inspection | Annual | Visual + listening | Replace per schedule |
| Diode test | Biennial | Multimeter | Check rotating rectifier |
Key Takeaways
- Understanding alternator options enables optimal generator specification.
- Alternator quality directly impacts generator reliability and power quality.
- Brand selection should consider local service support and parts availability.
- Winding configuration determines voltage flexibility — specify correctly.
Quick Reference
- Poles: 4-pole (1500/1800 RPM standard)
- Excitation: Brushless self-excited standard
- Protection: IP23 standard, IP44 option
- Standards: IEC 60034, BS 5000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is synchronizing?
Synchronization matches voltage, frequency, phase angle, and phase sequence before connecting a generator to a live bus. Auto-synchronizers control speed and voltage automatically.
What is an alternator vs generator?
Technically: alternator produces AC, generator produces DC. Colloquially, 'generator' means complete genset. Modern alternators use brushless self-excited synchronous design.
What is NFPA 110?
NFPA 110 is the US standard for emergency and standby power systems. Level 1: life safety (hospitals, high-rise). Level 2: less critical. Defines transfer time, testing, and maintenance.
What is a diesel generator?
A diesel generator converts the chemical energy in diesel fuel into electrical energy. It consists of a diesel engine (prime mover) and an alternator (generator) mounted on a common base frame.
What is a containerized generator?
A containerized generator is a complete genset housed in an ISO shipping container (20ft or 40ft). Provides weatherproof, transportable, plug-and-play power solution.
What is IP rating?
IP (Ingress Protection) indicates enclosure protection. IP44: spray water. IP54: dust protected. IP65: dust tight + water jets. Generator enclosures typically IP44-IP65.
What is a load bank test?
Load bank testing applies artificial load (75-100%) to exercise generator. Prevents wet stacking, verifies capacity, tests cooling system. Recommended monthly for standby units.
What is Modbus?
Modbus is an open serial protocol (RS-485) for generator controller integration. RTU mode: registers map to generator parameters. Supported by most controllers.
What is biodiesel?
Biodiesel is renewable fuel from vegetable oils or animal fats. B20 compatible with most diesel engines. B100 requires engine modifications.
What is ISO 8528?
ISO 8528 is the international standard for reciprocating internal combustion engine driven AC generating sets. Defines ratings, performance, testing, and documentation requirements.
What is wet stacking?
Wet stacking occurs when diesel engines run at <30% load for extended periods, causing unburned fuel accumulation. Prevention: load bank testing at 75%+ load monthly.
What is a standby generator rating?
Standby rating: maximum power for emergency use, 200-250 hours/year max, no overload. Typical for backup applications. Also called Emergency Standby Power (ESP).
What is a turbocharger?
A turbocharger uses exhaust gas energy to compress intake air, increasing engine power density 30-50%. Critical for modern high-output diesel engines.
What is a brushless exciter?
Brushless excitation eliminates brushes/slip rings using rotating rectifiers. Benefits: no brush maintenance, no carbon dust, explosion-proof — standard in modern generators.
What is genset paralleling?
Paralleling connects multiple generators to a common bus to increase capacity, improve reliability (N+1), and enable maintenance without shutdown. Requires synchronization and load sharing.
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