Last week our engineers were out on a variety of projects including some routine servicing on this MTU 4000 standby generator engine, which provides emergency power for a data centre with another 4 sets.
Whilst carrying out the service routine, we came across an unusual problem getting the engine onto the control board.
The engine started okay, but when we attempted to put it onto the backup system, the control panel wouldn’t let this happen.
Instead, the control panel flashed up an error message pointing to a battery problem.
As the engine started fine, it wasn’t likely to be the main batteries, but they were re-checked and found to be in new condition, and fully charged.
This then led us to check the 24V control batteries, which are separate to the start batteries.
It was found these were only able to hold 60% charge, even after they’d been left on trickle charge.
Once they were replaced and the panel reset, the generator was again able to add power to the backup system.
These batteries are not part of the routine service checks, but they will be going forward.
Do your maintenance routines cover all the right areas of your engine? If you’re not sure, drop us an email and we can look at them for you.
