Adding multiple generator ratings

[cppoly]

If a building has multiple generators connected through paralleling switchgear, do the ratings simply add or is it more complex then that?

(2) 1,000 kW generators
(1) 5,00 kW generator

Total = 2,500 kW capacity or no?

 

[GoldDigger]

Yes and no.
The question is the extent to which the generators will share the load.
That will depend on their impedance, their regulating voltage, etc.
As long as the paralleling switchgear interfaces with the generator regulators and measures the current from each, you get the full sum.
If the switchgear just prevents an out of phase closure, no.

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[cppoly]

Thanks. The reason why I ask is because transformers in parallel do not simply add so I wanted to see if generators were the same. For example 2.5 MVA transformer plus 6 MVA transformer does not equal 8.5 MVA.

 

[GoldDigger]

I think that reason that transformers do not simply add is that the current sharing will not be exact. Similar to the issue with generators, but without the ability to control it except with series impedances.

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