Features of diesel generators: pros and cons, application

Diesel generators do not depend on engineering systems. For their work, only fuel is needed. The high-speed unit can operate continuously for 2 days. This is a big advantage compared to gasoline models, which work for 5-7 hours maximum.

Features of diesel generators

Generators can be portable, which are used for household needs. Still generators can be large-sized stationary generators for power supply of industrial facilities and residential complexes. Most of the diesel generators are single-phase, giving a voltage of 220 V. Three-phase models give out 380 V.

The advantages of diesel generators:

• The unit is wear-resistant. It does not need technological pauses, safety during continuous operation is high.
• It quickly pays for itself.
• Depending on the model, units produce from 2-5 to 200 or more kW. Industrial units give up to 3000 kW.
• Diesel fuel is cheaper than gasoline.
• Diesel generators have no ignition system, which makes maintenance much easier.
• From the ignition, diesel fuel is compressed, rather than ignited, which is more fire-safe.
• Operating temperature of the unit is from -40 to +40. Permissible humidity is up to 95%. If the enclosure protection is used, the unit can work in any weather conditions.

There are models of diesel generators, which provide stabilization of the generated voltage. The function can be turned on when necessary to avoid voltage spikes. The cooling system can increase the EFFICIENCY up to 50%. It comes in two types. The liquid cooling system is installed in units with power from 15 kW, the air cooling system is installed in low-power models.

Disadvantages of generators on diesel:

• Starting the unit is complicated, you will need to study the instructions beforehand.
• Diesel depends on the temperature. In very hot weather it becomes viscous. This can cause the generator to overheat. When it is cold, the diesel generator needs to be warmed up.
• A diesel-powered generator is noisy, and there is a lot of exhaust. To reduce noise, an insulating cover is used.
• If the unit is installed in the room, a powerful supply and exhaust ventilation is required.
• A diesel generator is a large piece of equipment.

An important operating condition: a diesel generator must not run idle. This will quickly wear out the internal parts. The minimum load - 40% of the unit capacity.

How to choose a diesel generator

Diesel generators are more expensive than gasoline generators. Mechanical models are cheaper than automatic ones. Choosing a generator, take into account such characteristics:

• The power of energy produced by the generator must exceed the total power of all electrical appliances that will be powered by it.
• The ability to switch power modes.
• The duration of autonomous operation without refueling.
• With the mechanical type of starting the unit is activated manually. With the automatic type of starting, as soon as the voltage in the network disappears, the generator begins to produce energy without the participation of the operator.
• Fuel consumption depends largely on the type of engine. Three-cylinder models with direct injection, made in the U.S., use less fuel.
• Repairability. Whether parts are available for replacement when needed.

A diesel generator is also chosen depending on the need for the amount of electricity, whether the installation needs to be moved and other factors. The market offers models for different power supply needs.