EGSA Study Guide 2026

When a generator is paralleled with the utility, isolation requires proper permitting, de-energization of all parallel paths, and confirmation that the unit is fully de-coupled before any maintenance work.

Load bank testing applies a measured resistive, inductive, or combined load to verify the generator can handle its rated capacity and to burn off carbon deposits and unburned fuel (wet stacking) from underloading.

Wet stacking occurs when a diesel generator runs at light loads (below 30% of rated capacity) for extended periods, causing incomplete combustion. Unburned fuel and carbon accumulate in the exhaust, reducing performance and potentially damaging components.

Flexible fuel connections must be rated for diesel service, resistant to vibration from the engine, and adequately supported to prevent cracking or fatigue failure over time.

Cetane number measures how readily diesel fuel ignites under compression; a low cetane number leads to delayed ignition, hard starting, and rough engine operation.

Transformers are essential in power generation systems for efficiently transmitting electricity over long distances. They step up the voltage from the generator for transmission, which significantly reduces current and minimizes energy loss due to resistance. Conversely, they step down the voltage at substations for safe distribution to consumers and industrial users.