Generators - Diesel Electric Generators

Diesel generator sets, or diesel gensets are a combination of a diesel engine and an electrical alternator. The package set is called a generating set or “genset” for short. A genset also includes components such as circuit breakers, starting system, control systems, jacket water heaters, etc.

Diesel gensets and generators range from small, generator diesel portable units producing fewer than 5000 watts to huge standby diesel generators able to provide power for hospitals or care centers where continuous power is essential. Diesel electric generators are also used to supplement grid power during peak times. Generators - diesel units as small as 200 kW can be used to supplement grid power. Diesel electric generators typically are not used for recreational purposes but can be essential to homes, businesses, farms, hospitals, nursing homes, etc., during power outages.

Many homeowners, contractors, outdoor enthusiasts, and businesses choose diesel powered generators. Diesel is a relatively inexpensive fuel compared to propane and natural gas. Diesel fuel burns more efficiently, especially when the diesel generator is operating at near capacity. Diesel can store for a longer time than gasoline, is the least flammable of any generator fuel type, and diesel fuel is easily obtained.

A generator - diesel portable units - while potentially heavier and less quiet than gaseous portable generators, have distinct advantages. Portable and standby diesel generators are more durable and fuel efficient than other types of generators. The more robust motors of generators diesel can operate much longer with less maintenance than gaseous generators. Natural gas, propane, or gasoline generators while quieter running and less expensive, have a much shorter life than their diesel counterparts.

Care must be taken in the operation of diesel generators to ensure the generator is used at almost peak load. If a diesel generator is run for too long on only light loads, diesel fuel will accumulate in the fuel injectors, causing “wet stacking.” This “gumming” and carbonization in the engine will cause diesel generators to run rough and smoke. Running the diesel generator at 70%-80% capacity for a minimum of 30 minutes every month will keep diesel generators working smoothly.

Remember, generators - diesel units - are designed to work hard! When choosing a diesel generator, choose one to meet the wattage needs of home, RV, remote cabin, worksite, business, hospital, or care center. Smaller generators often meet the needs of contractors, homeowners or outdoor enthusiasts who require minimum power for emergencies or outdoor needs. A power cord can be run from the portable diesel generator into the home, cabin, or worksite for powering essential lights, tools, or appliances. Residential backup generators are a more convenient way of providing power for longer-term power needs. Using an automatic transfer switch, the residential backup generator can be wired to power the entire house or only essential circuits. Large buildings will require several hundred kilowatts powered by a diesel standby generator. Provisions for diesel fuel storage and delivery will need to be made and measures taken for sound attenuation. These preparations will prove essential during major power outages caused by ice storms, hurricanes, or other natural calamities. Standby diesel generators provide backup power via an automatic transfer switch. It is important to run the diesel generator each month at near-capacity. Preparing for the loss of power now will enable essential power during outages.