Cell towers around the globe are expected to sustain their cellular network in all conditions, which can turn into a real challenge in remote locations or in areas of the world where grid reliability is questionable. As a result, most BTS (Base Transceiver Stations) are equipped with generator sets whose role is to provide emergency backup or to act as a prime power source. Fuel consumption can then account for up to 60% of the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of a genset supporting a mobile network tower, with an average consumption of 1500 liters/year. In this context, Genset optimization, including the efficiency and reliability of the alternator, is a key route to significant cost savings.
Engineered with top-quality materials and carefully assembled at our productions sites, our alternators are designed to provide long-lasting power with top performances in critical areas:
Low reactance, meaning high ability to cope with load distortion
High efficiency and output for a reduced footprint and lower fuel consumption
High startup capability to lower interruption times
Kato Engineering has a proven track record of providing alternators that withstand the test of time and environmental constraints.
Our patented AREP auxiliary winding excitation system is particularly relevant in the Telecom context, where it will improve the reliability of the cell tower power system. AREP-enabled systems can sustain longer standby periods than regular excitation setups, and have overall better performances.
In off-grid operation conditions, our DC 48V variable speed alternator can replace a twin-gensets setup and adapt output power to the cell tower activity. This approach is especially efficient when the tower is idle and the alternator running at low speed (900 RPM). The Variable Speed Telecom alternator also features advanced battery charging capabilities, making it a relevant solution for hybrid cell tower installations. This technology can help reduce fuel consomption by up to 36% compared to a standard, diesel-only setup.
The Variable Speed LSAVS alternator integrates two special components:
The CCM module can be configured to adjust charging rate, charge limits, and grid paralleling settings.
Voltage | 48V DC |
Power (PF 0.95) | 15.8 kVA @ 2000 RPM 5.3 kVA @ 900 RPM |
Ripple - voltage | < 1% |
Ripple - current |
< 1.3% |