scope:

This Section of the Defence Standard defines the general design requirements for low voltage Ground Generating Sets (GGS) for use by the Ministry of Defence. While many of the requirements within this standard could be applied to any form of electrical power generation it is primarily focused on internal combustion engine driven devices. Any other power source would need special consideration when developing the reference for the Requirements Document Set.

It is the generic Standard for designers of such equipment and provides reference to many publications that must be considered in the early design stage.

Military generators are classified by type and size. Classification by type comprises:

a) General Purpose (GP) Power. GP power covers a range of standard common user generation and distribution systems, currently in the range 500W - 60kW. In principle, all IPTs defining power requirements for their systems should consider whether this can best be met using power from the GP power range.

b) Platform (P) Power. P Power covers generators provided as an integral part of an equipment, system or Complete Equipment Schedule (CES). P Power is primarily generated to supply the equipment only and not for general use. Examples include applications such as Auxiliary Power Units (APU) for main battle tanks, aircraft component test rigs, artillery systems and water dispensing racks. There are P Power applications where a GP generator could be integrated into a system, simplifying training and logistic support.

c) Special Purpose (SP) Power. SP power covers applications where GP power cannot be used for technical reasons, for example 400 Hz aircraft support power.

Classification by size comprises;

a) Small (< 8 kW and man-handleable),

b) Medium (8 - 40 kW trailer mounted),

c) Large (40 - 500 kW skid or ISO frame mounted) and,

d) Very large (> 500 kW larger than an ISO frame).

This Defence Standard is intended to cover GP, SP & P as detailed above.

All designers and specifiers of such equipment should consult with this standard for guidance and where more specific standards exist that cover more specialist design topics cross-references are provided. Some of these cross-reference documents are lengthy and at times difficult to interpret so where possible additional information is provided. This information includes the following;

i) Title and document identifier,

ii) Scope and content of the cross-reference document,

iii) Advise on its use and application,

iv) Areas that require careful consideration.

In many instances Defence Standards are not equipment specific, but rather offer generic guidance on different aspects of materiel design. Consequently a degree of interpretation is required and it is important that this is applied correctly. Where possible this standard offers assistance and guidance with the interpretation process.