A diesel generator set is a piece of equipment used to supply electrical power. Also known as a genset, these units are commonly used in areas that are not connected to the electricity grid or as backups in case of power outages. They can run on gasoline, diesel fuel or natural gas. Some gensets can even be converted to run on propane or another gaseous fuel if needed for cold weather operation While conventional logic would dictate that a diesel genset is cheap, noisy and temperamental, new technologies in engines, enclosures and other components are closing the gap between diesel and natural gas gensets. For instance, fuel filter heaters and other localized heaters can keep a genset operating in cold weather while rock wool insulation reduces noise and vibration levels in an enclosure. Additionally, one-time capital costs for a natural gas generator are lower than those of a diesel generator, even when taking into account fuel prices and transport costs.
Diesel Generators
In a diesel generator, air is blown into the engine until it is compressed, then diesel fuel is injected and the resulting combustion causes the generator to produce electrical energy. This electricity is then distributed according to the power demands of the equipment being powered. A complete set of a diesel generator, which includes the internal combustion engine and various ancillary devices such as a base, canopy, sound attenuation, control systems, circuit breakers, jacket water heaters, and starting system, is commonly called a genset.
Diesel gensets are often used as backup or prime power in situations where the local power grid is unreliable or overloaded. They also provide power to remote oil fields, distant farming facilities, and isolated mining operations. Because of the nature of their design, used gensets are typically built to handle a wider range of power loads than natural gas generators. Buy used generators from the most trusted one surplusrecord. A genset is made up of two components; an engine and an alternator. The engine converts chemical energy from the fuel into mechanical energy by spinning a rotor within an alternator stator. The rotation of the rotor causes electromagnetic induction to create a voltage on the stator, and that voltage is converted into electrical current by the alternator.
For example, some reefer containers use a pair of gensets to keep the contents of the container cool during shipping or transit. If one of the gensets fails, the other will start automatically. This is important to prevent food from spoiling and other problems.
It’s worth noting that both diesel and natural gas generator manufacturers are working hard to erase any perceived drawbacks that might be associated with their products. For example, some of the more popular diesel generator models are now quieter than ever thanks to advances in the technology that powers them. Meanwhile, manufacturers of natural gas gensets are incorporating 110 percent spill containment catch basins and making their enclosures more fire proof. They are also working on new filters that can reduce the amount of NOx emitted by their engines.
Used Generators
Used generators have a bad reputation, but they’re often a better option than buying a new one. Companies that are both large and small routinely purchase pre-owned equipment because it’s cost-efficient and can save them money. The term “used” should not have a negative connotation because industrial-grade generators are made to last. A used generator can also be more affordable if it’s in good condition and has been inspected and tested by an expert dealer.
The best way to get a great deal on a used generator is to look for a certified dealer that offers a warranty. A warranty can cover repair and maintenance costs. You should also ask about the age and hours of use of the generator. The older the generator is, the more likely it is to need repairs. A dealer should be able to tell you how many hours the generator has been used, and they may even have a record of this information.
Generators are useful for a variety of purposes, from keeping health care facilities operating to ensuring airport telecommunications centers can continue to operate. They are portable and fuel efficient, and they can provide either AC or DC electricity for various uses. However, they do require maintenance and inspections to keep them in good working condition.
Used generators are usually in excellent condition and come for a fraction of the price that new ones do. People might sell their old generators if they’re moving, or if they no longer need them for backup power. Used generators can be a great investment, and they’ll serve you well during an emergency. They’re also much cheaper than purchasing a brand-new generator, and they can be installed very quickly.