Generator Buying Guide

28 Nov.,2024

 

Generator Buying Guide

Whether you&#;re living off the grid or after some reliable backup power for everyday needs, generators can be a great convenience or an absolute necessity. At Able Sales, we know that choosing the right generator for your power application is essential. It&#;s easy too &#; if you have the right information.

From power quality considerations to cost and maintenance, finding the right generator for your needs doesn&#;t have to be a headache. We&#;ve created a comprehensive generator buying guide to help with the process. If you need any more help with choosing the best one for you, please do not hesitate to contact one of our friendly staff.

Dingbo supply professional and honest service.

1. What Type of Application is the Generator Needed for?

The first and most important question you need to ask yourself is what you need the generator for. This will help to determine what generator will best fit your needs and what options for each you have. Here&#;s a few examples.

Domestic Household Use

From everyday household backup, to emergency power at home there&#;s nothing worse than being left in the dark after a power outage or storm with a fridge full of food that&#;s not going to keep. For domestic use, portability tends to not be a problem so it may be worth opting for a stationary generator. Stationary generators are easier to start, powerful and generally quieter. They can also be hard-wired to your home by a professional so when the power does go out, you&#;re not left fumbling for extension cords.

Portable domestic backup generators can produce enough power to run your essential items though. A popular option is the 6 kVA air cooled diesel generator which is fuel efficient and quiet running. 8 kVA water cooled diesel generator is another leading edge of back-up power technology that&#;s run through diesel power and comes equipped with ATS ready control panel to direct your house mains and solar backup if required.

Trade and Farm Use

If you&#;re working on a construction site or needing some reliable backup for those power tools, portable power generators are your best bet. Ideal for farm or tool shed backup, factory maintenance or working in the agriculture industry, portable units allow you to continue working without disruption.

A portable diesel backup generator can prevent downtime on the job or be effective as a temporary power supply. Portable backup options for your trade, like a diesel generator, can provide reliable portable power to any work site.

Industrial Use

For larger commercial work, industrial trades and mining uses portable and stationary generators will be needed. In these instances, it&#;s best to go with a generator that provides a lot of power. These can be effective as event generators too, or for off the grid properties, hospital or of office tower backup.

Camping and other Recreational Use

Portable generators can provide reliable backup power for recreational needs too, like camping, caravanning, motor homes and boating. Look for a model that is lightweight for easy lifting fuel efficiency is important because you don&#;t want to lose power when you&#;re miles away from a service station. To work out how much power you will need, make a list of the appliances you plan to be running off the portable generator and one time. Determine how much power each will use and add up the running watts.

2. Power Output (Watts or kVA)

The amount of power for generators is measured in start-up watts (peak power) and running watts. You want your generator to comfortably handle all equipment to be powered so understanding the start up and running wattages is essential. Wattage &#; the function of voltage multiplied by amperage &#; is the amount of power that is drawn from electrical devices, which is always measured in watts.
Some devices will separate the measurements for the running wattage and the peak wattage. Make sure the total running wattage of all devices you intend to run off the generator doesn&#;t exceed the rated wattage of the generator. Generators will give you two ratings for their power input &#; continuous and peak. You want to be paying more attention to the continuous rating though to find one that meets the requirements of your devices.

kVA vs. Kilowatts Explained

kVA (kilovolt-ampere) is the apparent power whereas kilowatts represent the unit of real power. Both measurements help to determine what size generator you need to purchase to keep all devices running effectively. kVA measures the real power plus reactive power. This power factor is defined as the ratio between the kilowatts and the kVA that is drawn from an electrical load. The kilowatts is determined by the horsepower rating of the engine multiplied by .746.

3. Voltage Control and Power Quality

Another critical part of choosing the right generator comes down the power output quality. This can be worked out from various types of voltage control.

Conventional

Also known as condenser type, conventional voltage control is ideal for power tools and loads that are resistive (lights, kettle, and toaster &#; any basic equipment that doesn&#;t need a lot of power to run). These type of generators tend to be the most popular for trade and industrial use as they are low maintenance and easy to use.

AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulation)

Is best for powering more sensitive equipment and can be connected to the house mains and solar power set-ups. The AVR offers a more stable voltage output to compensate for the voltage variation from load changes. These types of generators are great for both domestic and commercial use.

Inverter (Electronic Voltage Control)

Used for the most sensitive devices, like your computer, these generators maintain an extremely high accuracy level of voltage control and frequency. Generators with this power quality maximise fuel efficiency and are ideal for recreational activities like camping, mobile businesses and small portable backups.

Voltage stability determines how well the power system can maintain steady voltages when subjected to disturbances. For power quality, you want to ensure your generator has this stability so the flow of power is reliable.

4. Single Phase vs Three Phase

 

Single Phase Power

This is the alternating current electrical generators can produce in one single, continuously alternating voltage and power most common household appliances. Single phase generators are best for homes and small businesses.

Three Phase Power

The common method for alternating power, three phase power systems are used for electrical grids, large motors and heavy loads. This level generator has replaced the two phase power generators for commercial distribution of electrical energy and are required by larger commercial operations for that extra boost of power.

5. Noise Level

Calculated in decibels (dBA), the noise levels for generators typically range between 55 dBA to 85 dBA. A &#;quiet&#; generator will be rated below 75 dBA, anything above this is considered louder than usual. Because noise is usually an unwanted sound, there&#;s an increasing need to define and control the noise level in generators.

Generators will be labelled with the decibel rating to determine its noise level. For every increase in 10 decibels, the noise level is 10 times more powerful.

6. Key Safety features to look out for

You want your chosen generator to be safe and reliable, so it&#;s vital to check what safety features it comes with. Before using your generator you should consult us for the full list of safety precautions to watch out for, but here&#;s a few essential features your generator should have.

Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCD, RCBO)

The most important safety feature designed to protect you from being electrocuted when the flow of electricity takes an alternative path. When the current from the generator differs, the GFCI shuts off the power.  The RCD device is there to detect when the current becomes unbalanced and is designed to disconnect the conducting wires quickly to prevent shock.

Manual Fuel Shutoff Switch

This feature prevents leaks from your generator and keeps fuel from getting trapped in the fuel system and spoiling during storage. Because most of the generator&#;s operating life is spent in storage, you want this part well protected. The idea is to turn the switch on and let the engine operate until it runs out of gas and stalls out, leaving no fuel in the lines an fuel system.

Low Oil Shutoff with an Indicator

If your generator is running for hours it&#;s easy to lose track of the oil level. Once you lose track though, the generator engine can seize up and it won&#;t be long before you&#;ll be shopping for a new generator. Ensuring your generator comes with a low oil indicator light will let you know once the engine has stopped because of the oil.

Automatic Voltage Regulator

This is a circuit board regulator that allows the generator to maintain a consistent voltage level despite the load. Used to control the output of generators in power stations, oil rigs, emergency power systems and greenhouses.

Ground Terminal or Neutral Bonded

Anytime you&#;re dealing with electricity, you must pay attention to the grounding methods. This safety feature will ground the generator in the event of an overload. The ground terminal requires you to connect a wire or grounding rod to the earth whereas the neutral bonded method grounds the generator to the frame.

7. Should I Choose Petrol or Diesel Fuel?

This is a very common question. Both petrol and diesel fuel types have their advantages. Let&#;s look at both:

Petrol

Because petrol is easily obtained it tends to be the most common for generators. For smaller generators, using petrol increases the portability. On the flip side, petrol can be highly flammable and has a shorter shelf life (approximately 12 months). Petrol can also be on the pricey side too, but it&#;s best to check your local prices to work out whether it&#;s cost effective for your needs or not.

Diesel

Diesel generators are more efficient than petrol and whilst they can initially cost more, they do last longer &#; especially with continuous use.

Diesel powered generators are designed to work under load for longer periods of time. This means they are ideal for intensive applications. You&#;ll save money in the long run with a diesel genset.

8. Generator Size and Mobility

The physical size of the generator can be a good indication on which one is best for your power needs. Its size plays a huge role in portability, so if you&#;re wanting something for recreational purposes smaller is obviously best. If the generator is for backup home power and won&#;t need to be moved often or at all, a larger unit is probably best.

If you are planning on moving your generator around, look for lifting points for ease of access. Wheels and handles are often included with generators, but not all the time. In some generators, wheels are mounted to one end whilst the peg stand is on the other to allow the generator to be tilted and moved. For the sake of mobility and physical strain, look for a generator that has both handles and wheels.

9. What About Air cooled vs Water Cooled Engines?

Generator engines typically differ between air cooled and water cooled. Air cooled generators use fans to force air across the engine to cool it down and ideal for typical home use. Water (liquid) cooled engines are used on larger kW generators. They are more powerful and best for larger homes, businesses, restaurants and offices.

Air cooled generators operate at higher Revolutions per Minute (RPM) than water cooled models. What does this mean for you? Engines running at lower RPM (1,500RPM) will last longer.

10. Upkeep and Serviceability

If the generator breaks down or requires maintenance, individual units can be dismantled and serviced accordingly.

Warranty

The length of warranty is a good indication about whether the generator is high quality or not. Generators with longer warranties are better because the manufacturer has belief in the product that it will last the distance. Be wary of generators with a short warranty.

Basic DIY Maintenance

To keep your generator running smoothly, there&#;s a few simple DIY maintenance tips you can follow. Regular oil changes are essential &#; give it its first oil change after 25 hours then refill every 50-60 hours. Old fuel is the number one cause of generator problems too, so you&#;ll want to add a fuel stabiliser to prevent fuel breakdown and empty the tank and fill with fresh fuel before each use.

From: Global power machinery equipment Co.,Limited

Are you interested in learning more about Generator set procurement for mining operations? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

www.globalpowermachine.com

:-

What factors should be considered when buying diesel ...

When considering the purchase of a Diesel Generator Set, there are several factors that industrial buyers, including factories, distributors, and channel partners, must evaluate to ensure they select the right equipment for their needs. Diesel generators are essential for providing backup power in various industries, ensuring uninterrupted operations during power outages or in remote locations. This research paper aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the key factors to consider when purchasing a diesel generator set, including power requirements, fuel efficiency, load management, and maintenance needs.

Moreover, we will explore the importance of testing the generator with a load bank to ensure optimal performance and reliability. By understanding these factors, buyers can make informed decisions that align with their operational requirements and budget constraints. For more information on diesel generators and their applications, visit the Diesel Generator Set page.

Power Requirements

One of the first and most critical factors to consider when purchasing a diesel generator set is the power requirement. The power output of a generator is measured in kilowatts (kW) or kilovolt-amperes (kVA), and it is essential to match the generator's capacity with the power needs of the facility or equipment it will support. For factories and industrial applications, this often means calculating the total load of all machinery, lighting, and other electrical systems that need to remain operational during a power outage.

It is important to distinguish between prime power and standby power ratings. Prime power refers to the generator's ability to provide continuous power for an extended period, while standby power is the maximum power the generator can provide during emergency situations. Buyers should assess their operational needs and choose a generator that can handle peak loads without overloading.

Calculating Power Needs

To calculate the power needs, buyers should perform a load analysis, which involves identifying all the equipment that will be powered by the generator and determining their power consumption. This can be done by consulting the equipment's nameplate data or using a power meter to measure the actual consumption. Once the total load is calculated, it is advisable to add a margin of 10-20% to account for future expansions or unexpected surges in power demand.

For example, if a factory's total load is 500 kW, a generator with a capacity of 550-600 kW would be recommended to ensure smooth operation without overloading the system. Additionally, if the generator will be used in a prime power application, it is crucial to select a unit that can handle continuous operation without excessive wear and tear.

Fuel Efficiency and Operating Costs

Fuel efficiency is another important factor to consider when purchasing a diesel generator set. Diesel generators are known for their fuel efficiency compared to other types of generators, such as gasoline or natural gas generators. However, the fuel consumption of a generator can vary significantly depending on its size, load, and operating conditions.

To minimize operating costs, buyers should look for generators that offer high fuel efficiency, especially if the generator will be used for extended periods or in remote locations where fuel supply may be limited. Modern diesel generators are equipped with advanced fuel management systems that optimize fuel consumption based on the load, reducing fuel waste and lowering overall operating costs.

Fuel Consumption Rates

Fuel consumption rates are typically expressed in liters per hour (L/h) or gallons per hour (GPH) at a specific load percentage. For example, a 100 kW generator may consume around 25 liters of diesel per hour at full load, while the same generator may consume only 15 liters per hour at 50% load. It is important to review the fuel consumption data provided by the manufacturer and choose a generator that offers the best balance between power output and fuel efficiency.

Additionally, buyers should consider the availability and cost of diesel fuel in their region. In some areas, diesel fuel may be more expensive or harder to obtain, which could impact the long-term operating costs of the generator. In such cases, it may be worth exploring alternative fuel options, such as biodiesel or dual-fuel generators that can run on both diesel and natural gas.

Load Management and Load Bank Testing

Effective load management is crucial for ensuring the longevity and reliability of a diesel generator set. Running a generator at low loads for extended periods can lead to "wet stacking," a condition where unburned fuel accumulates in the exhaust system, causing reduced efficiency and potential damage to the engine. To prevent this, it is important to operate the generator at an optimal load level, typically between 50-80% of its rated capacity.

To verify that a generator can handle the expected load, buyers should conduct a load bank test. A load bank is a device that simulates the electrical load on the generator, allowing it to operate at full capacity under controlled conditions. This test helps identify any potential issues with the generator's performance, such as overheating, voltage fluctuations, or fuel inefficiencies, before it is deployed in a real-world scenario.

Benefits of Load Bank Testing

Load bank testing offers several benefits, including:

  • Ensuring the generator can handle the full load without issues.

  • Identifying any potential weaknesses in the generator's performance.

  • Preventing wet stacking by running the generator at optimal load levels.

  • Verifying the accuracy of the generator's fuel consumption rates.

Maintenance and Serviceability

Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring the long-term reliability and performance of a diesel generator set. Buyers should consider the maintenance requirements of the generator, including the frequency of oil changes, filter replacements, and other routine tasks. It is also important to choose a generator from a reputable manufacturer that offers comprehensive service and support, including access to spare parts and technical assistance.

In addition to routine maintenance, buyers should also consider the ease of serviceability. Generators that are designed with easy access to key components, such as the engine, alternator, and control panel, can reduce downtime and maintenance costs. Some manufacturers offer remote monitoring systems that allow users to track the generator's performance and receive alerts when maintenance is required, further simplifying the maintenance process.

Maintenance Contracts and Warranties

Many manufacturers and distributors offer maintenance contracts that cover routine servicing and repairs. These contracts can provide peace of mind by ensuring that the generator is properly maintained and that any issues are addressed promptly. Buyers should review the terms of the maintenance contract, including the scope of coverage, response times, and costs, to determine if it is a worthwhile investment.

Warranties are another important consideration. Most diesel generators come with a manufacturer's warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period, typically ranging from one to five years. Buyers should carefully review the warranty terms and ensure that they understand what is covered and what is not. Extended warranties may also be available for an additional cost, providing further protection against unexpected repairs.

Environmental Considerations

As environmental regulations become more stringent, it is important for buyers to consider the environmental impact of their diesel generator set. Diesel generators produce emissions, including nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and carbon dioxide (CO2), which can contribute to air pollution and climate change. To minimize the environmental impact, buyers should look for generators that meet the latest emissions standards, such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Tier 4 standards or the European Union's Stage V standards.

In addition to emissions, buyers should also consider the noise levels of the generator. Diesel generators can be noisy, especially when operating at full load, which can be a concern in residential or urban areas. Many manufacturers offer soundproof or silent generator sets that are designed to reduce noise levels, making them more suitable for noise-sensitive environments. For more information on silent generators, visit the Silent Type Generator Set page.

Alternative Fuel Options

For buyers looking to reduce their environmental footprint, alternative fuel options such as biodiesel or natural gas may be worth considering. Biodiesel is a renewable fuel made from vegetable oils or animal fats, and it can be used in most diesel generators with little or no modification. Natural gas generators produce fewer emissions than diesel generators and may be a better option for buyers in areas with strict emissions regulations.

In conclusion, purchasing a Diesel Generator Set requires careful consideration of several factors, including power requirements, fuel efficiency, load management, maintenance needs, and environmental impact. By conducting a thorough load analysis, choosing a generator with high fuel efficiency, and performing regular maintenance, buyers can ensure that their generator will provide reliable power for years to come.

Additionally, testing the generator with a load bank is essential for verifying its performance and preventing issues such as wet stacking. For more information on diesel generators and their applications, visit the Diesel Generator Set page.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website disel generator.