Firefighting and fire protection - Portable generator - Part 2: Generating set < 5 kVA
1Key Takeaways
The provisions of this standard apply to portable generators with a capacity of less than 5 kVA, which are used by fire departments and other emergency services for the off-grid operation of electrical equipment. If the generators are to be used to feed power into existing electrical installations, the connection requi…
2Expert Interpretation
This in-depth analysis of the German DIN 14685-2:2015-12 standard's technical requirements for portable fire generators <5kVA covers electrical safety, protection levels, size and weight limits, insulation monitoring systems, and labeling requirements, providing professional guidance for selecting fire emergency rescue equipment.
Standard Overview and Development Background
DIN 14685-2:2015-12 is a professional technical standard developed by the German Institute for Standardization for portable generators used in the firefighting and fire rescue sectors. It specifically regulates generator sets with an output capacity of less than 5kVA. This standard replaces the previous version and incorporates the latest requirements of Amendment A1, particularly with regard to painting and marking.
Scope of Application and Core Requirements
This standard applies to portable generators of less than 5kVA used by fire departments and other rescue organizations to provide a grid-independent power supply to electrical equipment. The standard clearly requires that when the generator is used to supply power to existing electrical consumer installations, in addition to complying with DIN VDE 0100-551, it must also meet the connection conditions of the relevant supply network operator (VNB).
| Technical Parameters | Required Value | Test Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Rated Power | ≥Nameplate Power | DIN EN 12601 |
| Rated Voltage | 230V ±10% | DIN VDE 0100-410 |
| Rated Frequency | 50Hz ±5% | ISO 8528-5 |
| Protection Grade | IP44 minimum | DIN EN 60529 |
| Weight Limit | ≤55kg (≤3kVA) | DIN EN 14466 |
Electrical Safety Protection Systems
The standard requires that generators must be equipped with protective isolation (Schutztrennung mit Potentialausgleich) with equipotential bonding, in accordance with DIN VDE 0100-410:2007-06. Key safety requirements include:
In the event of a second fault, the affected electrical branch must be disconnected within a specified time limit, or the generator output voltage must be reduced to ≤50V. This requires coordination between the generator and the built-in overcurrent protection switches in the switchgear and the maximum connected fault circuit impedance.
In practice, the total length of the connecting cables must not exceed the specified maximum length. To ensure safety in the event of a double fault, the maximum cable length at the generator end must be limited to 100 meters for copper conductors with a cross-sectional area of 2.5mm² or greater. This restriction is based on practical operational safety considerations.
Insulation Monitoring and Fault Alarm System
The standard mandates the use of an insulation monitoring device that must provide visual and acoustic alarms when the insulation resistance between the moving parts and the ungrounded equipotential bonding conductor drops (relative to the phase-to-earth voltage U0):
- The optical alarm must not be deactivatable
- The acoustic signal must be confirmable
- The alarm signal must be clearly audible and distinct from ambient noise
This design ensures that even in harsh firefighting and rescue environments, operators can promptly detect insulation faults and take appropriate measures.
Structural design and mechanical requirements
The standard puts forward detailed requirements for the mechanical structure of portable generators:
| Structural characteristics | Specific requirements | Test methods |
|---|---|---|
| Dimension limits | ≤3kVA: 550×400mm | ISO 2768-mK |
| Protective top cover | Full length and width coverage | DIN EN 14466 |
| Carrying Device | Cold-proof and heat-resistant insulation, anti-slip treatment | Ergonomic Requirements |
| Maintenance Accessibility | Easy maintenance of all components | Anti-loss design |
For generators exceeding 3kVA or diesel-driven, the dimensional and weight limits for 5kVA in DIN 14685-1 may apply.
Painting and Marking Specifications
Amendment A1 focuses on updating the painting and marking requirements:
Generators must use a weather-resistant paint from the RAL 841 GL color card, with the primary color being RAL 1012, and alternative colors such as RAL 3000, RAL 5002, or RAL 6012. This does not apply to combustion engines and corrosion-resistant surfaces within external structures.
The marking system must include:
- Brief operating instructions and safety tips (DIN EN 12601)
- Performance plate (ISO 8528-5)
- Type plate (DIN 825) with information such as manufacturer, model, serial number, and weight
- Maximum cable length marking and extension conditions
- Explosion-proof warning label (minimum 105×297mm)
Electromagnetic compatibility and environmental requirements
Generators must comply with the electromagnetic compatibility requirements of DIN EN 55012 (VDE 0879-1) and DIN EN 55014-1 (VDE 0875-14-1). Noise emissions must be determined and marked in accordance with Directives 2000/14/EC and 2005/88/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council. The internal fuel tank capacity must ensure operation for at least 1.5 hours at rated power, and the fuel level must be visually displayed. To extend the operating time, a three-way valve with a quick-connect connector (NW 6 mm) must be provided for external fuel supply from a standard 20-liter tank via a fuel extraction device.
Standard Implementation Recommendations and Technology Evolution Analysis
DIN 14685-2:2015-12 represents the latest development in the technical specifications for portable generators for firefighting. The main technical evolution is reflected in:
- Safety performance improvement: Strengthened insulation monitoring and double fault protection requirements
- Operationalization: Improved marking system and operating instructions
- Environmental adaptability: Updated painting specifications and environmental protection requirements
Implementation Recommendations:
- When purchasing, confirm that the generator meets the latest requirements of the A1 amendment
- Operators must receive special training on the use of the insulation monitoring system
- Regularly check the integrity and clarity of the cable length limit marking
- Establish a comprehensive maintenance record system, especially insulation resistance monitoring data
This standard is consistent with DIN 14685-1 (≥5kVA) and DIN 14685-3 (special requirements) together constitute a complete standard system for portable generators for firefighting, providing reliable technical support for power supply guarantee for firefighting and rescue work.