Introduction to Diesel Generators
Developments never came more quickly. The paperless office, intelligent communication, web applications, mobile platforms, digital switches. Medical care has become micro technology, mass production is in the hands of robots. Yet, they all have one thing in common: electric power. Today’s customer is inundated with several choices, which is why its important to carry various brands of generators & of multiple kinds. They no longer shop for a machine; these customers expect a total package solution. In market, the standard range comes with numerous options so the customer can put together the product tailored to his needs. With several companies manufacturing diesel generators, one is now able to explore, browse & purchase from the finest & the most varied range of power backup products. Such generators can be found anywhere: from telecom operators, data centres, banks and insurance companies to health care centres, from large power stations to industrial facilities, in agriculture, public and private buildings, defence, rail and aviation, swimming pools, schools, water purification, inside and outside. Being powered by the most fuel-efficient engines, several brands such as Volvo, Eicher offer ample savings in running costs.
Usage needs & provisioning
Due to power cuts & supply shortages, the Indian genset market has been witnessing tremendous growth. Nowadays, almost every organization needs consistent power supply as data loss can end up being a costly affair than the capital expenditure required for backup power equipment.
To complete the gen-set package companies generally offer engineering, manufacturing, supply and installation of: - Fuel supply systems: main storage tanks and daily fuel tanks conforming to strict legislation - Noise and air control - Complex cooling solutions - Mains paralleling for testing or peak shaving - Emergency power back-up scenario programming and switching to handle emergency situations - Bus system-based reporting to management software (profibus, modbus, etc.) - Etc...
Mentioned below are some points that can be verified with an engineer
Technical understanding before getting one at your premises
The electrical Load Impact on Generator Sizing explains various load types, their characteristics and their impact on generator set size, operation and equipment choices. The generator’s performance is affected by the applied load and the load may be affected by the generator characteristics. There is great importance of knowing the sequence of load connection. Electrical Design details the electrical installation design of the generator in various application scenarios; i.e., single generator set installations or paralleling applications, related electrical systems and their interface with the facility and load. While the mechanical design explains installation design and related mechanical systems and their interface with the facility. It is recommended to apply reduced voltage motor starting techniques for long lifespan of diesel generators. Since there’s multiple kinds of generators, having basic knowledge on installation of open & enclosed generator sets is must.
Conclusion
Equipment and installation requirements vary depending on the situation and intended use of the power generation. Knowing the guidelines for generator power ratings helps one make an appropriate choice of duty as per the load requirements. Certain considerations need to be kept in mind from the location point of view as well.
Specifications to keep in focus while buying a Diesel Generator
Power - It is important to know the requirement of the home/enterprise before buying a diesel generator. According to the need of a place, generators ranging from 2.5 kVA to more than 2000 kVA can be used.
Phase - Diesel generators are available for both single phase and three phase connections. Find out if your home/enterprise has a single phase or three phase connection and choose a suitable generator accordingly.
Fuel Consumption - Fuel consumption is one of the most important things to be kept in mind while buying a diesel generator. Find out the fuel consumption of the generator per hour and per kVA (or kW) and also the fuel efficiency it provides with respect to the load.
Control systems and power management systems - Generators with the ability to automatically transfer power from the grid to the generator during a power cut and vice versa, display warning (low fuel and other performance issues) along with providing a broad range of analysis data, helps increase the efficiency of the diesel generator. The power management system helps to optimize the fuel consumption and the performance of the generator with respect to load demand.
Portability and Size - A generator with a set of wheels or those provided with slots for easy lifting helps reduce the hassle of transportation. Also, keep in mind the size of the generator with respect to the space available to keep it.
Noise – High noise emission can be a problem if the generator is kept in close proximity. Noise absorption technology is provided in some diesel generators which highly reduces the noise emitted by it.
We have covered the most important points when ready to buy one. The requirements will surely differ for different industries. Hence, clients should finalize one only after they have done enough research on its functionality & other features.