Caterpillar Inc. has announced that Cat diesel generator sets for North America, ranging from 11 kW to 600 kW, have been certified to meet all published editions of the International Building Code’s (IBC) seismic provisions. In addition, enclosed models of these same generator sets have received certification for compliance with 90 mph wind-load provisions.

The Cat C9, C15, and C18 generator sets, rated from 180 kW to 600 kW, received IBC seismic certification at SDS 2.2g, which corresponds with the spectral response acceleration threshold at New Madrid Fault, the highest value in the U.S. The C1.5, C2.2, C4.4, and C6.6 gensets, rated from 11 kW to 175 kW, have been certified to SDS 1.93g. 

These generator sets also received Special Seismic Certification Preapproval (OSP) from the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD).  To receive Special Seismic Certification Preapproval, manufacturers of generator sets must submit documentation that shows the equipment has passed a shake test in accordance with ICC-ES AC-156, meeting seismic requirements for an earthquake.

With these latest certifications, Caterpillar now provides a complete range of diesel generator sets—rated from 11 kW to 3,100 kW—that meet the rigorous IBC seismic and OSHPD requirements. In addition, Cat components for emergency power systems, including low- and medium-voltage paralleling switchgear and automatic transfer switches, are IBC seismic and OSHPD certified.

“By becoming a one-stop-shop for IBC certified power products, we have further simplified the sourcing process for our customers,” Erika Hamrick, engineering manager for Caterpillar’s Electric Power Division. “These are people whose reputations are on the line when they recommend and install emergency power systems. Our products have undergone rigorous testing to achieve IBC and OSHPD certifications, providing our customers with peace-of-mind knowing their backup power systems will work when needed.”

For more information, visit www.catelectricpowerinfo.com/pr or e-mail cat_power@cat.com.