Choosing a 350 kVA Diesel Generator for Standby and Prime Duty

Specifying a diesel generator set is rarely a single-number decision. The 350 kVA class sits in a range where machines are used both as emergency standby units and as continuous prime power, and the difference between those two duties changes how you should read the data sheet of a set like the Baudouin 6M16G350/5.

Standby and prime ratings explained

Standby power (ESP) is the headline figure and represents the output a set can deliver for emergency use when the mains supply fails. For this machine that is 350 kVA, equivalent to 280 kW. Prime power (PRP) is the rating for extended continuous operation at a lower load point, given here as 315 kVA.

• Standby (350 kVA / 280 kW) – emergency power for hospitals, data centres, industrial lines and critical buildings, where the unit starts after a mains failure and runs for a limited period.
• Prime (315 kVA) – continuous generation for grid support, rental fleets, temporary site power and off-grid installations with a steady base load.

If your application is genuinely continuous, plan around the prime figure. If it is only backup, the standby rating is the relevant number and gives you headroom during start-up transients.

Engine, speed and electrical output

The set is built around the Baudouin 6M16G350/5 engine running at 1500 rpm, which is the standard synchronous speed for 50 Hz output. Electrical configuration is 400 V, 50 Hz, three-phase, the most common arrangement for industrial and commercial three-phase consumers in Europe and many export markets.

The alternator is a Lisite unit with self-excited excitation and an AVR voltage regulator, keeping output voltage stable as load varies. The DSE6120 control panel handles engine and alternator monitoring, with an ATS (automatic transfer switch) allowing the set to take over the load automatically when mains power is lost.

Fuel and runtime

A 460 litre base fuel tank is fitted on the base frame. Fuel capacity determines how long the set can run without refuelling, and it also dictates the overall footprint and weight of the machine at 2850 kg within a 3200 x 1600 x 2000 mm envelope.

Enclosure and equipment

The enclosure is silent, which matters when the unit is installed close to occupied buildings or on sites with strict noise limits. The supplied equipment list covers the practical essentials:

• Battery charger and battery for reliable cranking and standby readiness
• Coolant heater and engine block heater for cold-start capability
• Radiator with fan and dry air filter for sustained working temperatures
• Anti-vibration mounts to reduce structure-borne vibration
• Circuit breaker, ATS and emergency stop for safe integration and operation

Practical notes for buyers

Before ordering, confirm the voltage, frequency and phase requirements match your distribution system, and check whether the ATS arrangement fits your existing switchgear. Working through the load list, runtime needs and installation environment with a technical advisor helps avoid a specification that does not match the duty.

Export and delivery

Generator sets of this size are typically shipped by road, sea or air depending on destination, and the full export documentation package is handled as part of the process. Every machine is tested in the workshop before loading, and a personal advisor supports the buyer from specification through delivery.

For pricing and availability of the Baudouin 6M16G350/5, contact GEC Export Center in Istanbul with your project requirements.