9. AC Generators and Inverters
9.1 AC Generators
If there is a difference between this Caltrans Division of Equipment Electric Standard and the National Electric Code (NEC), then the Caltrans Division of Equipment Electric Standard takes precedence.
- Generators shall be made to operate in ambient temperatures up to 122° F.
- Belts shall be replaceable without taking apart any major part of the generator.
- Items needed for normal maintenance (such as oil fills, filters, drains, dipsticks, etc.) shall be accessible and shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction.
- All exposed belts and rotating parts shall be covered with guards. (does not apply to vehicle engine driven units under the hood.)
- Generators shall be installed per the manufacturer’s instructions and National Electric Code (NEC) 551-30 (Generator Installation) and Article 455-Generators.
- The chassis ground (earth) point on the generator shall be attached with at least #8 gauge, green insulation, flexible wire to the main engine/battery ground (earth) point on the equipment. Also allowed for the ground wire is green heat shrink or green electrical tape. Installer shall use only those ground (earth) points recommended by the vehicle or equipment manufacturer.
- All generator fuel system connections shall be accessible.
- Fuel lines shall not be tied to electrical wiring.
- Fuel lines shall be protected from abrasion, heat sources, and electrical wiring.
- All generators shall be supplied with operator’s manuals and installation manuals.
9.2 Inverters
If there is a difference between this Caltrans Division of Equipment Electric Standard and the National Electric Code (NEC), then the Caltrans Division of Equipment Electric Standard takes precedence.
- A voltmeter (e.g., display) or light shall be provided to show that the inverter is on, or in standby.
- Inverters are to be installed per manufacturer’s instructions and National Electric Code (NEC) 551-30 (Generator Installation) and Article 455-Generators.
- The chassis ground point on the inverter shall be attached with at least #8 gauge flexible, green insulation wire to the main engine/battery ground point on the equipment. Also allowed for the ground wire is green heat shrink or green electrical tape. Installer shall use only those ground (earth) points recommended by the vehicle or equipment manufacturer.
- Inverter control panels shall be accessible.