SCIOS Inspections
SCIOS inspection has been legally mandatory since January 1, 2016. A SCIOS inspection includes:
A SCIOS inspection is simply nothing more than a special inspection for combustion installations. Emergency generators fall under combustion installations and therefore SCIOS inspection is also mandatory for these.
The reason that a SCIOS inspection is mandatory is due to environmental and safety reasons. Even if an emergency generator only runs when the power fails. The SCIOS inspection consists of many different components, also called scopes. Now, not all scopes are relevant for emergency generators. The most relevant scopes for emergency generators are only scope 4, scope 6 and scope 7C. Here follows more information about the respective scopes:
- Scope 4: The inspection of the combustion engine and gas turbines. This must always be performed on generators with a thermal input power of 20 kW or higher. Not sure if your generator falls under this? We are happy to help you further!
- Scope 6: The emission measurement. This is mandatory for installations that run more than 500 hours per year. Does your installation run fewer hours? Then this emission measurement does not simply lapse. You must be able to demonstrate that your installation actually runs less than 500 hours and that you only use the generator for emergency power.
- Scope 7C: Covers inspection of the fuel supply line. This scope applies only to installations with an external tank.
For a clearer overview regarding the different scopes, you can view the image below.
| Emergency Generator | Inspection Scope 4 | Inspection Scope 7c | Inspection Scope 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| < 20 kWth (8 kVA) | No | No | No |
|
20 kWth to 100 kWth (8 kVA to 42.5 kVA) |
Yes (1 x 4 years) | Yes (1 x 4 years) | *See below |
| > 100 kWth (42.5 kVA) | Yes (1 x 2 years) | Yes (1 x 2 years) | **See below |
| *Explanation Scope 6 | **Inspection Scope 6 (emissions emergency generator) |
|---|---|
| Only used as emergency backup when less than 500 hours per year | No |
| Used as emergency supply >500 hours per year | Yes |
|
Used for power generation / peak shaving not being an emergency/test situation (own / commercial use) |
Yes |
Different requirements may apply for mobile use
Step 1: First Special Inspection (EBI)
The First Special Inspection only applies when you have a generator that has never been inspected. During this inspection, they check whether the installation and design of the generator comply with applicable standards and regulations. Subsequently, the inspection instructions and limit values are established. These are relevant for subsequent inspections and are an essential step in the procedure. The technicians at ABATO Motoren are all SCIOS certified and can perform this inspection for you.
Step 2: Periodic Inspection (PI)
After the First Special Inspection, your installation must be periodically inspected. The frequency with which this must happen depends on the input power of the generator. For generators up to 100 kW thermal input power, this inspection must take place every four years. For larger generators, this inspection must take place every 2 years. Based on the report that was prepared after the first special inspection, the inspector checks the generator. This involves looking at the safety provisions present, any modifications that have been made, and whether the maintenance performed has demonstrable results. In addition, the inspector also checks the number of operating hours. The generator is checked to see if it runs more than 500 hours and whether the generator is used only for emergency power or not. When the generator makes more than 500 operating hours or when it is used for purposes other than emergency power only, the SCIOS scope 6 inspection will be performed. The scope 6 inspection is a combustion test where engine combustion, fuel consumption, temperature and CO2 emissions are measured. What is also good to know is that the SCIOS inspection institute has a national system. All inspections and inspections are registered in this system. This allows environmental officers and supervisors to see whether you comply with the obligations. This generally results in a lower chance of additional checks.
Need a SCIOS inspection? We are ready for you!
ABATO Motoren is your go-to partner for SCIOS inspections. Our experienced technicians are certified to inspect and certify your generator set. These inspections and certifications can also be combined with maintenance on your generator set if desired. You can contact us through our contact page for questions, to set up a maintenance contract, or to schedule an appointment.
