Diesel generators are vital backup tools as the electrical grid is often unreliable. Additionally, during the rainy season and natural events such as tropical storms or hurricanes, power outages are common throughout the country. Diesel generators are widely used in outdoor events, construction, and emergencies.
It is important to consider a number of factors when purchasing a diesel generator, such as weather and geographic conditions, specific electrical power needs, and available budget.
In this context, we will explore the key aspects to take into account when purchasing a diesel generator to ensure that the equipment purchased is suitable for the user's needs and offers optimum performance under local conditions.
Things to take into account when purchasing a diesel generator
Charging power
How to calculate the adequate power for your needs?
Generator power is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a diesel generator. Wattage determines how much electrical power the generator can provide at any given time, and is measured in kilowatts (kW).
It is essential to calculate the required power before purchasing a diesel generator to ensure that the equipment purchased is suitable for your specific needs. To calculate the necessary power, the electrical equipment or appliances that will be used, their energy consumption, the amount of time they will be used and the amount of energy it takes to start each of them must be considered.
A useful tip is not to underestimate the power required. If the generator cannot provide enough power, the equipment may not work properly, which may cause damage to the equipment. In addition, it is advisable not to oversize the necessary power, since this can result in excessive spending on a generator that is larger than necessary.
[Also Read: Understanding the Power Factor]
Fuel
Another key factor to consider when buying a diesel generator is fuel consumption. Fuel consumption can affect both generator efficiency and long-term cost.
It is essential to calculate the fuel consumption of the generator before buying it. Fuel consumption is measured in litres per hour (l/h) and depends on generator power and workload. Generally, the higher the power of the generator, the higher its fuel consumption.
To calculate how much fuel the generator set can use, multiply the fuel consumption by the number of hours the generator is expected to run, and then multiply that number by the cost per litre of diesel.
To maximize generator efficiency and reduce fuel costs, it is important to keep your generator well-maintained and used efficiently. Some helpful tips when buying a generator include making sure the generator is clean and properly lubricated, using professional electric generators that have a solid-state voltage regulator to avoid excessive power consumption, and not overloading the generator with more load than expected. that you can handle.
Portability
Portability is a key factor to consider when buying a diesel generator in, as it can be essential depending on the specific needs of each user. For example, if a generator is needed for outdoor use, it is important that it be easy to transport.
Diesel generators come in a variety of styles based on how portable they are. Some are stationary and designed to stay in one place, while others are portable and can be easily moved from one place to another.
Portable generators often come equipped with wheels and handle for easy transport, while stationary generators are often larger and require a more fixed location, although road transport carts are available for this larger piece of equipment.
According to Altron Engineering it is essential to choose the right generator according to the transportation needs. Some helpful tips include determining how much weight it can handle, measuring the space available for the generator, and choosing one that has a cart, wheels, or handles for easy movement.
It is also important when purchasing a generator to consider how far it will take to transport the generator and whether any type of specialized vehicle is required to transport it.
Boot method
When purchasing a diesel generator, it is important to consider the starting method you use, as this can be a key factor in its functionality and ease of use. The most common starting systems are mechanical, electrical and pneumatic, and your choice will depend on the specific needs of each application.
For example, if a high level of power and frequent starts are required in industrial applications, an air start may be an option, however, an electric start may be more suitable for applications where ease of use and accessibility are a priority.
In either case, it is important to carefully assess the user's needs and select the boot system that best meets those needs. By doing so, optimal functionality and efficiency of the diesel generator can be ensured, which in turn can reduce operating costs in the long run and improve equipment reliability.
Environmental conditions
When purchasing a diesel generator, it is crucial to consider the environmental conditions in which the equipment will be used to ensure optimum performance and extend the life of the generator set. When requesting an offer, it is necessary to provide information about the following characteristics:
- Ambient temperature (minimum and maximum): The temperature range in which the diesel generator is used is a key factor that can affect its performance. Manufacturers often specify the minimum and maximum ambient temperatures in which the generator can operate effectively. For example, some diesel generators can operate in the range of -20°C to 40°C, while others can operate in more extreme temperatures.
- Altitude: The altitude at which the diesel generator will be used is also an important factor to consider, as air density decreases as altitude increases, which can affect the ability of the generator to produce power. Manufacturers also provide information on the maximum altitude at which the generator can effectively operate.
- Humidity: The relative humidity of the environment in which the diesel generator will be used is also important. Moisture can affect generator efficiency and accelerate rust and corrosion of equipment components. Manufacturers often provide information on the maximum relative humidity in which the generator can operate effectively.
