This article covers mechanical mounting and gas connections. Install the generator per the General Arrangement (GA) drawings supplied with your unit, which show the exact layout, connection locations, and fitting sizes for your configuration. After installation, follow the Startup & Commissioning article to bring the system online.
Before you start
- Confirm the site meets the conditions in the TL Series Site & Utility Requirements, and position the unit accordingly.
- Use caution when working with pressurized gas. Install all fittings and lines correctly and leak-check every line before use. Line leaks cause the generator to run excessively and shorten its life.
- Use only factory-supplied parts. Modifications made without written consent from South-Tek Systems void the unit's design specifications.
Wall-mounted installation (TL-450 and TL-450-Plus)
Mount the unit on a weight-bearing wall that can support its weight, indoors and upright, where it will not be struck by water or moving equipment. Leave at least 4 in. of clearance on each side for venting, and do not install near a heat source or where steam or water is present. The TL-450 can alternatively be floor-mounted and fastened in place.
An optional mounting bracket kit (STS Part # A05-TYP1) mounts the unit on a standard 16 in. wall-stud spacing. Otherwise, use the cabinet mounting holes to fasten the unit directly and level to the wall. All mounting holes use 1/4 in. screws or anchors.
- Install the cabinet-mounting brackets on the unit using the provided bolts and lock nuts.
- Mount the 18 in. lower wall bracket (16 in. center-to-center holes, no rectangular cutouts) level and at the desired height, using hardware appropriate to the wall material. Orient the bracket angles as shown in the diagram.
- Attach the upper 12 in. bracket to the top flange with the supplied nuts and bolts.
- Attach the 18 in. bracket to the bottom flange with the supplied carriage bolts and nuts. Carriage bolts install from the back side of the bracket. Do not fully tighten yet — the slotted holes allow a slight offset after the unit is hung.
- If the studs are not 16 in. on center, or the mounting area needs reinforcement, install 1/2 in. or thicker plywood first. The unit vibrates while the compressor runs, so make sure the wood and unit are secure at full weight.
- Hang the cabinet on the top bracket, center it, then tighten all hardware.
Mounting bracket kit contents
| STS Part # | Description | Qty |
|---|---|---|
| 800-133 | 12 in. mounting bracket | 1 |
| 800-134-B | 18 in. mounting bracket | 1 |
| 800-129 | Type 1 lower wall-mount bracket | 1 |
| — | 1/4 in. -20 x 3/4 in. carriage bolt | 2 |
| — | 1/4 in. -20 x 3/4 in. hex cap screw | 2 |
| — | 1/4 in. nylock nut | 4 |
| — | 1/4 in. flat washer | 2 |
Floor-standing installation (TL-1050, TL-1050-Plus, TL-1825)
Install on a hard, flat, level surface capable of supporting 300+ lb. The support legs have four anchor-bolt holes for floor anchoring. Anchoring is not required unless local code requires it.
- The back and right sides may sit against a wall. Leave at least 6 in. on the left for ventilation, with 36 in. recommended for control-panel access. Otherwise the unit must be pulled out to read the display.
- Leave at least 36 in. at the front for the cabinet door and routine maintenance, and clearance on top for the gas-line connections.
- Two 1/4 in. OD drain ports (left side) plumb to the nearest site drain.
Gas connections and panel layout
Make all gas connections per the GA drawing for your unit, which gives the exact connection locations and fitting sizes. Double-check every connection before turning on the system or opening any valves, and re-check for leaks once the system is pressurized.
- Install an on/off valve on each individual line. This aids troubleshooting and maintenance. Never detach a line under pressure — close the valve first.
- Use only quality tubing and fittings rated for the system's temperature and pressure.
- On the TL-450 and TL-1050, remove the four shipping lock-down bolts that secure the compressor during shipping before powering on the unit.
TL-450 separate nitrogen storage tank
The TL-450 supplies a separate 100 lb nitrogen storage tank that mounts external to the generator. Secure the tank to the wall with the supplied tank strap, then connect the tank manifold (ball valves, safety relief valve, and gauge) as shown. Plumb the nitrogen outlet from the tank to the transmission line.
Engineered and skid systems (TL-1725)
The TL-1725 ships as an engineered package that may combine an air compressor, air dryer, air cooler, air receiver, filtration, the nitrogen generator, a nitrogen storage tank, and/or a booster. Install it per the supplied GA drawing and detail tank drawings.
- Locate the nitrogen storage tank as close to the generator as possible. Consult South-Tek Systems if it must be more than 50 ft away.
- Use lifting and rigging devices rated for the equipment, and avoid heavy impacts or jolting that could damage internal components.
- Install OEM components such as the compressor and dryer per their manufacturer instructions. Connecting plumbing between components is not supplied as standard. Final pipe sizing is determined by the local pipe contractor, using materials with a compatible pressure rating.
- Follow local codes when installing tank accessories such as relief valves, gauges, and isolation valves.
- A qualified electrician should verify available power and complete all electrical connections to the correct voltage and frequency.
- Check all fittings and piping/hose connections for leaks.
Initial pressurization and leak check
Once all connections are complete and leak-checked, the unit is ready for start-up. Initial start-up takes up to one hour to fully pressurize the internal storage tank, after which the system automatically enters Standby. On a unit starting from 0 PSIG, holding the storage tank at about 60 PSIG for roughly six hours is recommended to purge any atmospheric gas. Full start-up steps are covered in the Startup & Commissioning article.
Related articles
- TL Series — Site & Utility Requirements
- TL Series — Receiving, Unpacking, and Storage
- TL Series — Startup & Commissioning
- TL Series — Replacement Parts & Filter Kits
- TL Series — Safety Guidelines