General Information and Operating Instructions: GPU - 406 GPU - 409
General Information and Operating Instructions: GPU - 406 GPU - 409
General Information and Operating Instructions: GPU - 406 GPU - 409
GPU - 409
CHAPTER 1
General Information
and Operating Instructions
Contents
INFORMATION ................................................................................... 1-1-1
1. Unit Description ............................................................................................................................. 1-1-1
A. GPU-406 and GPU-409 ........................................................................................................... 1-1-1
2. Major Component Description ....................................................................................................... 1-1-6
A. Engine ...................................................................................................................................... 1-1-6
B. Generator System .................................................................................................................... 1-1-7
3. Electrical Box Assembly ................................................................................................................. 1-1-9
A. Relay Panel Assembly ............................................................................................................ 1-1-10
B. Relay Panel Components ....................................................................................................... 1-1-11
C. Generator Control Module ...................................................................................................... 1-1-13
D. Instrument Panel .................................................................................................................... 1-1-15
E. Contactors .............................................................................................................................. 1-1-21
Operation ............................................................................................ 1-2-1
Specifications and Capabilities ........................................................ 1-3-1
Shipping ............................................................................................. 1-4-1
Storage ............................................................................................... 1-5-1
Options available on the GPU-400 ground power units are listed below. Each piece of optional
equipment is covered by its own instructions and parts breakdown, and is located in Chapter 4.
Disregard the option if it is not applicable to your unit.
1...Air filter
2...Exhaust silencer
3...Charge air cooler
4...Engine
5... Radiator
6...Generator
4
1
1...Air filter
2...Charge air cooler
3...Engine
4... Radiator
5...Generator
6…Diesel Oxidation Catalyst
1
5
7
2
8
1…Air filter
2…Charge air cooler
3…Engine
4…Radiator
5…Generator
6…DOC (Diesel Oxidation Catalyst)
7…DRT (Decomposition Reactor Tube)
8…SCR (Selective Catalytic Reducer
2
3
FRONT REAR
A. Engine
The GPU-400 series is equipped with a 4-cylinder, in-Iine, turbocharged engine, certified to meet EPA
Tier 3 and Euro COM 3A emissions regulations. Tier 4 Final and Euro Stage IV compliant engines are
also available.
All engines used are equipped with electronic governors, which provide precise frequency regulation
and fast transient response. Engine protection such as low oil pressure, high coolant temperature, and
over speed protection are programmed into the engine electronic control module. An engine
diagnostic connector is provided for communicating with the engine. Full-flow fuel and lubrication oil
filters are utilized.
A 24-volt starting motor and alternator are used, as well as a heavy duty spark arresting exhaust
silencer and dry-type air cleaner. The fan is a pusher type, which sucks the air into the unit through
the bottom, underneath the generator, and pushes it across the radiator and turbocharger air cooler,
and finally out the roof of the unit.
REFER TO CHAPTER 5, CUMMINS QSB OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL FOR MORE
INFORMATION ON THE ENGINE.
B. Aftertreatment System
The Tier 4 Final engine is equipped with a special exhaust system that treats the emitted exhaust gas
from the diesel engine to reduce harmful emissions. The exhaust system processes the exhaust gas
by first passing it through a Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) to reduce unburnt hydrocarbon and CO
emissions. Then, the exhaust gas passes through a Selective Catalytic Reactor (SCR) which, along
with the Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF), reduces NOX emissions.
The parts that support the SCR include the DEF supply module, heater lines, and DEF tank. These
parts aim to regulate the temperature and delivery of DEF to the exhaust system. Refer to Error!
Reference source not found.9 for more detail.
The generator system is a simple system which contains few components. The unit utilizes a TLD
brand generator. The other major assembly of the generator system is the electrical box assembly,
which contains the generator control module, instrument panel controls, and a relay panel.
Generator:
GENERATOR BREAKDOWN
FIGURE 5
3 1
4 FIGURE 6
1…Electrical Box
2…View Screen
3…Select Buttons
4…Control Knob
5…Emergency Stop (E-Stop)
6…Electrical Panel
7…GCM2 Control Box
7
FIGURE 7
5
1 6
11
T1 T3
10
2 K3 K10 K5
T2
TB2 K17
K16 (OPTIONAL)
8
3
7
RELAY PANEL
FIGURE 8
The Generator Control Module (GCM) is the brain of the GPU-400. It is a fully-automatic voltage
regulator that not only provides voltage and frequency regulation, but also generator fault protection
and generator power output display. The GCM also functions as an engine instrument panel that can
display engine fault codes, and other useful information such as charging voltage and engine RPM. On-
screen directions in multiple available languages guide the operator on how to properly operate the
GPU.
The GCM monitors the 400 Hz output when 400 Hz is in use and automatically switches over to
monitor the 28.5 VDC output when the optional 28.5 VDC transformer-rectifier is in use. The GCM
provides line drop compensation on 400 Hz as well as line drop compensation and current limiting on
the 28.5 VDC transformer-rectifier. The GCM displays the generator output voltage, current, and
frequency on a backlit LCD. The voltage regulator is programmed to protect against the following
generator fault conditions:
The voltage regulator displays and latches the fault if any of the above should occur.
Power is automatically disengaged from the aircraft.
The following are the electrical characteristics of the Generator Control Module:
1
4
INSTRUMENT PANEL
FIGURE 10
7
1…Blue Button
2…Red Button
3…Yellow Button
4…Green Button
5…Dial with Pushbutton
6…LCD Screen
7…Emergency Stop
The four colored pushbuttons are the main method to control the GPU. The function of the button
changes, depending on the GPU’s current operating condition. The current function of each
button is always displayed on the screen directly above the button. The icon will be color-coded
the same color as the button it represents.
The blue button is used to crank and start the engine. It is also used to stop the engine.
The blinking airliner icon means the output is available for use.
Press and release the red button to activate the #1 400 Hz Output.
The solid airliner icon means the output is being used. Press and
release the red button to deactivate the #1 400 Hz Output.
The blinking airliner icon means the output is available for use. Press
and release the yellow button to activate the #2 400 Hz Output.
(The solid airliner icon means the output is being used. Press and
release the yellow button to deactivate the #2 400 Hz Output.
Press and release the green button to turn off the GCM. When
the GCM is off, this button can be used to turn it on.
The blinking small aircraft icon means that the output is available for
use. Press and release the green button to activate the 28VDC output
The solid small aircraft icon means that the output is being used. Press
and release the green button to deactivate the 28VDC output.
The dial with a built-in push button is used for making on-screen selections and GPU servicing.
When the 28VDC output is active, the push button of the dial toggles between adjusting the DC
output current limit and scrolling the engine information display.
With the 28VDC output on, press the dial push button to enter the output current limit adjustment.
Rotate the dial left or right to increase or decrease the DC output current limit. Push the dial again
to exit this adjustment.
When the 28VDC output is off, rotating the dial only scrolls the engine information display. See
the following section for more information on the engine information display.
The GCM is equipped with a 5.7” high-contrast LCD display that can be visible even in direct
sunlight. It displays all of the operating information to the operator. This information includes
output voltage, output current, output power, and any information related to an output power
fault. It also functions as basic engine instrumentation by providing useful information such as
engine speed, engine temperature, charging voltage, and diagnostic trouble codes.
Check Engine
Engine Hours
Engine RPM
Water in Fuel
On GPU’s equipped with a Tier 4 Final engine, a DEF gauge will automatically appear to the right of the fuel
gauge. This gauge alerts the operator when the DEF is running low, and when it should be filled. Refer to page
2-1-10 for instructions on how to fill the DEF tank.
The generator controller screen will also indicate when an exhaust system cleaning is taking place if the engine
is idling. The cleaning process occurs automatically through the control of the engine computer, and it maintains
The GPU should not be shut down until the E.S.C. icon disappears.
E. Contactors
The GPU’s contactors are mounted on the relay panel, which is on the rear wall of the control
box. The contactors use a 24V control voltage, and they are driven directly by the GCM. The
GCM provides the logic for closing the contactors after the engine has ramped up. The GCM also
controls when the contactors need to open in the case of an aircraft rejecting the power delivered
by the GPU or when the delivered power enters a fault condition. The GCM can detect a stuck
contactor. If a contractor is determined to be stuck, either open or closed, voltage regulation will
stop and the engine will return to idle speed.
Note that for 90 KVA GPU’s, the 2nd contactor and output cable are optional.
When 400 Hz power is supplied to the aircraft, the aircraft returns a voltage signal to the GPU
through the E & F pins of the output cable and terminal block. This return signal is used to provide
a logical interlock for the GCM. Without this signal from the aircraft, the GCM does not allow the
contactor to stay closed. If the aircraft decides 400 Hz power is not within specification, it will cut
the return signal through the E and F pins, causing the GPU’s contactor(s) to open.
The output load contactor contains three main contact sets. The three main contacts conduct
three-phase AC generator output. Three-phase, 400 Hz generator output cables are connected
from the generator to the line side of the load contactor by passing through a set of current
transformers. From the contactor, power is brought to the aircraft via 400 Hz output cables (in
various lengths) and plugs.
WARNING:
IMPROPER OPERATION CAN KILL! READ AND UNDERSTAND
ALL OF THE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THE UNIT.
A. Inspection/Check
Inspect the unit thoroughly prior to operation.
(1) Remove the blocking, banding, ties, and other securing material.
(3) Inspect the interior for foreign material such as rags, shipping papers, etc.
(4) Check the fuel, coolant and oil hoses and connections for visible leaks. For Tier 4 Final engines,
check the DEF fluid lines.
CAUTION:
BEFORE FUELING WITH ANY TYPE OF JET FUEL, CONTACT
TLD. DAMAGE TO THE FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM COULD
RESULT. NEVER USE JET FUEL WITH A TIER 4 ENGINE. ONLY
ULTRA LOW (<15PPM) SULPHUR DIESEL CAN BE USED WITH
(b) Engine Coolant
CAUTION:
BE SURE THE COOLANT SYSTEM ANTI-FREEZE SOLUTION IS
ADEQUATE TO PROTECT BELOW THE LOWEST
TEMPERATURE EXPECTED.
Coolant level should be approximately one inch below the radiator filler neck. The expansion
tank should be approximately half full. See engine manufacturer’s manual (Chapter 5) for
recommended coolant type.
NOTE:
For antifreeze protection, use a solution of 50% long life
antifreeze (ethylene glycol) and 50% distilled water.
NOTE:
When DEF level falls below 2.5% of the maximum capacity,
engine power output will be reduced to comply with emission
regulations. This may cause an interruption in power delivery to
attached aircraft.
NOTE:
The AC aircraft cable assembly recommended shall consist of
four single conductor #2/0 cables with two #12 control leads
connected to an AN3430 plug.
The #2/0 cables must be equipped with terminals having a 3/8
Inch diameter mounting hole. The mounting hole in the #12
leads must be 1/4 Inch.
(b) Each contactor is identified by a nameplate. Each cable should be identified by a band-type
marker. Connect cable "A" to terminal "A", "B” to "B", etc. Tighten the terminal nuts
securely. Connect the "E" lead to the "E" terminal and the "F" lead to the "F" terminal on the
distribution block below the contactor.
(c) Tighten the cable clamps securely, but avoid damage to the cable insulation.
WARNING:
IMPROPER OPERATION CAN KILL! READ AND UNDERSTAND
ALL OF THE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THE UNIT.
This section contains information and instructions for the safe and efficient operation of the unit.
A. Prestart Inspection
(3) Make a visual check of the unit for conditions which could affect serviceability.
(1) Ensure that the battery disconnect switch (S6) is in the ON position.
(3) Wait 5 seconds for the GCM to reach the blue start screen.
(4) Press and release the BLUE button to start the engine. Allow the engine warm-up sequence to
run for the 60 second count down. If the engine is already warm the GCM2 will skip the warm-up
sequence.
The heater icon illustrates when pre-heating is taking place. Wait until the heater icon disappears,
then follow the normal starting procedure.
NOTE:
Always wait until the heater light goes out then start the engine
to ensure a successful and clean start.
WARNING:
REMOVE THE AC PLUG FROM THE AIRCRAFT WHEN USING THE DC
OUTPUT TO START AN AIRCRAFT.
(1) Connect the power cable to the external power receptacle on the aircraft.
(2) If the engine has completed its warm-up, the power outputs will be available for use.
a. Press and release the RED button to turn on the #1 400 Hz power
b. Press and release the YELLOW button to turn on the #2 400 Hz power
c. Press and release the GREEN button to turn on the 28VDC power
(3) The engine ramps up automatically. Once the GCM has detected that the power quality is good,
the output contactor will close to allow power to the aircraft. The icon text above the output
symbol will turn green to show that the contactor has closed.
WARNING:
DO NOT UNPLUG CABLE FROM AIRCRAFT BY PULLING ON THE CABLE.
(1) Press and release the button below the screen symbol to the output that should be turned off.
a. Press and release the RED button to turn off the #1 400 Hz power
b. Press and release the YELLOW button to turn off the #2 400 Hz power
(3) Stow the power cable on the generator in the proper location.
The operator can cancel the shutdown at any time of the cool-down by pressing and releasing the
blue button.
When the engine is shut-down, battery power to the engine computer must be maintained for a
minimum of 120 seconds. This allows existing engine faults to be registered by the ECM. On a
Tier 4 Final Engine, this allows the DEF injection system to be purged. Do not turn off the main
battery disconnect switch during this time.
Failure to maintain battery power to the ECM will result in diagnostic trouble codes upon the next
start-up.
CAUTION:
FAILURE TO ALLOW THE ENGINE TO IDLE AFTER OPERATING
UNDER LOAD MAY LEAD TO TURBOCHARGER BEARING
DAMAGE.
The Tier 4 Final engine equipped on a TLD ground power unit has an exhaust system fitted with a diesel
oxidation catalyst (DOC) which reduces emitted hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide. The exhaust system also
contains a selective catalytic reducer (SCR) which, when used with DEF, reduces emitted NOX.
- Maintain a DEF level of greater than 10% as indicated on the generator controller screen
- Only fill the DEF tank with ISO – compliant DEF or ADBLUE.
- Only use diesel engine motor oil that meets the CJ-4 standard in North America or the ACEA E9
standard in Europe.
- Only use ultra low-sulpher diesel fuel with less than 15 PPM of sulphur.
- Never attempt to deliver power to an aircraft while engine diagnostic trouble codes are present.
1. GPU-400 SERIES
RATED LENGTH
KVA P.F. KW WIDTH HEIGHT
AMPS TOWBAR UP
MODEL
With beacon
64"
112" 68" 1630 mm
GPU-406 60 0.8 48 170
2845 mm 1728 mm W/O beacon
59”
1502 mm
With beacon
64"
112" 68" 1630 mm
GPU-409 90 0.8 72 260
2845 mm 1728 mm W/O beacon
59”
1502 mm
The generator used in the ground power unit is rated at 115/200 Volts nominal, 400 Hz, and 125% of
rated power for 5 minutes. It is 3-phase, 4-wire wye connected, and with a grounded neutral. It is a
brushless, self-cooling, single-bearing generator directly coupled to the engine. Refer to the chart
above for power and current ratings. The operating speed is 1846 rpm.
All faults require a manual reset on the generator control module before any power can be delivered to
the aircraft again.
D. Engines:
All engines used are electronically-controlled diesel engines with electronic engine governors
providing precise frequency regulation and fast transient response. Engine protection such as low oil
pressure, high coolant temperature, and over speed protection are programmed into the engine
electronic control module (ECM). An engine diagnostic connector is provided for communicating with
the engine for diagnostic purposes. Engine operating parameters are displayed on the GCM display
via SAE J1939 Controller Area Network (CAN), which include:
- Engine hours
- Engine RPM
- System Voltage
- Oil Pressure
- Coolant temperature
- % Engine load at the current RPM
- Active and stored service codes
- Intake Heater Status
- Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Level (Tier 4 Final Only)
The fuel gauge is built into the GCM. Automatic engine cool down and emergency shutdown are
standard engine controls.
Shipping
1. Shipping the Unit
CAUTION:
DO NOT SHIP THE UNIT BY RAIL. DAMAGE MAY OCCUR DUE
TO HIGH AND UNPREDICTABLE ACCELERATION WHEN
SHIPPING BY RAIL AND THE FACTORY SUGGESTS THAT
OTHER MODES OF TRANSPORTATION BE USED.
CAUTION:
DO NOT USE CHAINS OR STRAPS OVER FUEL LINES,
ELECTRICAL WIRES, OR COMPONENTS.
A. Secure the unit using straps or chains over the axles. Use wheel chocks in front of and behind
the tires to prevent movements.
NOTE:
If shipping the unit by boat it is advisable to keep the unit below
decks and away from salt water spray. If this is unavoidable,
cover the unit with plastic to keep salt water spray from coming
in contact with the unit.
B. Lifting Arrangements
If it is desired to lift the unit with a forklift, utilize the unit forklift pockets only to move the unit. Do not
hoist, lift or otherwise move the unit using the on frame tie down points, they are designed for stowage
only.
A. When storing the unit in cold ambient temperatures, be sure that the proper antifreeze percentage
is present in the engine cooling system.
B. When storing the unit for extended periods of time, perform the following steps:
(1) Drain the cooling system completely from the engine and radiator. Drain the DEF tank if the
unit is equipped with a Tier 4 Final engine.
(2) Remove most of the weight from the tires using blocks under the frame.
(3) Remove all fuel from the fuel tank and add a desiccant to absorb condensation.
(4) Cover the air screens on the generator with tape to prevent the ingress of foreign material.
(5) Disconnect the battery with the battery switch.
NOTE:
Consult the manufacturer's literature in Chapter 5 for further
Information on storage.
A. Check and replenish the level of engine coolant. Replenish the DEF if the unit is equipped with a
Tier 4 Final engine.
D. Visually check of the unit for damage, as birds and small rodents may build nests or chew on wires
and hoses.
NOTE:
Consult the manufacturer's literature in Chapter 5 for further
Information on removing components from storage.