Find helpful information from this glossary of words in the power industry.
AN INDEX OF THE FREQUENTLY USED POWER TERMS
Amps/Ampere. a unit of electric current equal to a flow of one coulomb per second.
Alternating Current. An electric current that reverses its direction many times a second at regular intervals, typically used in power supplies.
Air Circuit Breaker. An ACB is an electronic device that is used for the protection of electrical circuits from any short circuits or overcurrent. The ACB operates at atmospheric pressure in air. ACB is used in the switching mechanism and protection of the electrical system.
Auto Transfer Switch. A transfer switch is an electrical switch that switches a load between two sources.
Anti Vibration Mounts. A flexible support that reduces the noise and vibration passing through from mainly the engine.
Automatic Voltage Regulator. An AVR is used to regulate the voltage, to keep a consistent voltage through the generator.
Building Automation System. Computer based control system installed in a building.
Building Management System. Computer based control system installed in a building.
CKD stands for Completely Knock down. It means the supply of engine and alternator.
Continuous Power. The generator is ran for a prolonged period of time without stopping.
Decibel. A measurement of sound.
Direct Current. an electric current flowing in one direction only.
Diesel generator – A diesel generator is the combination of a diesel engine with an electric generator (often an alternator) to generate electrical energy.
Environmental Protection Agency. Applicable to engines imported into the United States.
Emergency Standby Power. An emergency power system is an independent source of electrical power that supports electrical systems for when there is a loss of the normal power supply.
Gallons Per Hour.
Horse Power. A measurement of the power of an engine.
High Voltage. A voltage of over 600.
Hertz. The hertz is the derived unit of frequency and is defined as one cycle per second.
Ingress Protection. Also known as Ingress Protection Rating.
Kilovolt. 1000 volts.
Kilovolt-ampere. A kilovolt-ampere (kVA) is 1000 volt-amperes.
Kilowatt. A kilowatt (kW) is 1000 watts.
Kilowatt-hour. a measure of electrical energy equivalent to a power consumption of one thousand watts for one hour.
Low Voltage. A voltage of 120 or below.
Limited-Time Power. the maximum power that a generator is able of providing power for, up to 500 operating hours per year.
Miniature Circuit Breaker. Small trip switch operated by an overload and used to protect an electric circuit, especially a domestic circuit as an alternative to a fuse.
Moulded Case Circuit Breaker. A type of electrical protection device that is used to protect the electrical circuit from excessive current, which can cause overload or short circuit
Manual Transfer Switch. A switch than can changes the load between two sources of power.
Medium Voltage. Between 1000v and 35 KV.
Mega-volt ampere. 1000kva = 1MVA.
Megawatt. 1000kw = 1MW.
An electrical resistance between two points of a conductor, with a difference of one Volt.
Power Factor. the ratio of the actual electrical power dissipated by an AC circuit to the product of the r.m.s. values of current and voltage. 0.8pf is the standard power factor for a diesel generator.
Permanent Magnet Generator. This is used for secondary excitation, and provides a stable electric energy for the AVR.
Prime Power. The primary source of power for operating, this load can be variable.
Revolutions Per Minute. How fast the engine is operating at any one time. Typically the engine will run at around 1500RPM (50Hz), and 1800RPM (60Hz).
Socity of Automotive Engineers. The sizing of the alternator housing and engine flywheel.
SKD stands for Semi Knock down. It means the supply of semi-assembled generators.
Standby Power Supply.
Volts. The SI unit of electromotive force, the difference that can carry one A of current against the ohm resistance. In the UK, the standard housing voltage is 230V (1PH), and typically for manufacturing 400V (3PH).
Volt Amps. It is the unit used for the apparent power in an electrical circuit.
Vacuum Circuit Breakers. In the event of a fault current, the VCB mechanism effects withdrawal of the movable contact from the fixed contact
The watt is a unit of power.
Water Jacket Heater. is a water-filled casing surrounding a device, typically a metal sheath having intake and outlet vents to allow water to be pumped through and circulated.
VISION
At CPS, our vision is to be the leading provider of innovative and reliable power solutions, redefining the future of energy systems. We aim to empower businesses and communities worldwide with seamless, efficient, and sustainable power, setting the benchmark for customer satisfaction, quality, and innovation. Our commitment to excellence drives us to go above and beyond, ensuring every client’s energy needs are met with unparalleled reliability and cutting-edge technology.
MISSION
Our mission is to deliver high-quality, reliable, and innovative power solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients. We are dedicated to providing exceptional service, tailored systems, and ongoing support to ensure uninterrupted power and operational efficiency. Through our commitment to excellence, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, we aim to be the trusted partner in powering the future.
MISSION
Our mission is to deliver high-quality, reliable, and innovative power solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients. We are dedicated to providing exceptional service, tailored systems, and ongoing support to ensure uninterrupted power and operational efficiency. Through our commitment to excellence, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, we aim to be the trusted partner in powering the future.