A generator is basically a transforming machine that uses a resource to create motion that is then transformed into electrical energy. Internal combustion engines, wind turbines, hydroelectric plants and other energy sources are commonly used to create mechanical energy for generating electricity. Generators are used in many different areas to prevent power loss in emergency situations, to provide electricity in remote locations, and as a temporary power source for construction sites among other uses.
The most common types of generators are manual generators, diesel and regular fuel generators, welding generators, three-phase generators and single-phase generators.
Most generators have these basic parts:
Other Generator Parts:
A generator is a crucial piece of equipment with a wide range of applications in different sectors that makes the use of electrical energy more dependable. It can be used as a backup or as the direct source of power. We have come to rely on backup generators for temporary or short-period electricity in the case of power outages in dense urban areas, but they are equally vital in providing electricity in off grid settings for buildings and many other places in rural or remote locations. Generators are commonly used in:
First and foremost the power capacity of the generator must meet the required electricity load. The total power needed for running all your electrical devices must be correctly calculated and correspond to the nominal watt output of your generator.
Generators fall into two main categories as portable and fixed. Portable generators are more suitable for home use or open air events, while fixed generators are preferred for residences, businesses or industrial facilities.
Generators usually run on resources such as regular fuel, diesel, propane and natural gas. The fuel source should be selected according to application purpose, cost and fuel source availability.
Generators should be fuel-saving and efficient. Lower fuel costs usually mean longer life for generators.
The noise level of the generator is important for residential areas and other settings that require low noise. Low-decibel generator models should be chosen for these locations.
The automatic start up feature enables the generator to operate automatically in case of a grid power outage. The remote control option provides faster and easier access to the system.
The dimensions, weight and practicality of portable generators are important. They should also be easily stored when not in use.
Selecting a quality generator brand means long-lasting and dependable use of equipment. Manufacturer warranty and after-sales support can be deciding factors.
The generator engine is the foremost component that drives a generator. This is usually an internal combustion engine that is designed to transform mechanical energy into electrical energy. Generator engines can run on other fuel sources but they all require an alternator which produces electricity with the rotation of the inner electromagnetic parts.
Generator engines usually have a certain output or capacity and this capacity determines the duration of time a generator can operate at a certain load (total power of connected equipment). Engine efficiency, fuel consumption, noise levels and other performance factors should be well-considered in selecting the right generator.
The alternator is an electricity generation component that transforms the mechanical energy of internal combustion engine to electrical energy. Alternators are usually coupled with internal combustion engines, generators, wind turbines and other energy resources to transform the mechanical energy into electricity. If functions by the rotation of an electromagnet called a rotor inside of a fixed electromagnet coil to produce an electric current.
Regular generator maintenance is vital to ensure the dependability of backup power, keep up performance and increase the life-span of the equipment. Basic maintenance elements are listed below:
Fuel System Maintenance:
Cleaning fuel filters and fuel tank
Checking fuel line and connections
Oil Change:
Checking the oil levels of the generator engine
Periodically changing the engine oil and oil filters
Air System Maintenance:
Cleaning and changing the air filter
Checking air inflow and outflow
Cooling System Maintenance:
Cleaning the radiator or cooling system elements
Checking anti-freeze levels
Generator Set Electrical Controls:
Checking voltage and frequency settings
Checking cables and connections
Checking the automatic startup system
Engine Controls:
Checking overall status of the engine
Measuring cylinder pressures
Checking valve settings
Battery Maintenance
Checking battery connections
Checking battery levels
Checking battery charge levels
General Examination:
General visual examination and checking for leaks
Checking connections
Checking vibration and noise levels
Tests and Simulations:
Periodic operation of the generator under load
Periodic testing of the automatic startup system
Checking the generator and the manual control panel
Records and Documentation:
Documenting maintenance events and keeping records
There are certain factors that may reduce the efficiency of a generator such as lacking conditions in open or closed spaces where the generator is located, overload and load deficiency situations, fuel and oil quality, environmental temperature, and detrimental conditions such as dirty, dusty and unventilated locations. Generator maintenance is thus important to prevent malfunctions that may arise from the intensity and frequency of the factors above, to quickly resolve problems, to avoid unnecessary costs and to keep the generator under warranty.
Always check the documents and specifications of your generator model to make sure you are selecting the correct parts. Spare parts from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) are without doubt the most suitable to ensure the best performance and durability of your generator.
The generator chassis is the load-bearing lower frame of the generator. It is the structural frame that supports the generator engine, alternator, fuel tank, control panels and other components. The chassis has a solid design made of steel and helps minimize the vibration levels of the running generator with anti-vibration mounts. The generator chassis has different designs for portable, fixed and installed generators.
The generator control panel is a control system used to monitor, adjust and manage the operation parameters of a generator. This panel is designed to ensure the safe and effective operation of the generator. The control panel generally comes with the generator as a mounted or integrated component.
Portable generators are made for mobility and are commonly used to meet smaller power requirements. Most often they run on regular or diesel fuel. Portable generators are well suited for power outages, mobile power requirements and open air events among other uses. As with larger generators, safety rules must be observed before and after operation, and correct maintenance must be carried out.
The main component of a generator is an internal combustion engine. Diesel fuel is heated by compression in the engine and a firing system (usually compressed firing without spark plugs) burns the fuel. The burning diesel fuel creates expanding gases in the engine which push pistons to create rotary motion. This rotary motion from the engine turns the generator rotor. The rotating motion of the generator rotor creates an electromagnetic field in the stator. This induces an electrical current in the stator coils. The induced electrical current is transferred to the output terminals of the generator. This is usually an alternating current (AC) but some diesel generators put out direct current (DC). Most diesel generators include voltage and frequency control systems. These systems ensure that electricity is produced at a certain level of voltage and frequency for the safe and effective operation of equipment.
The main component of a generator is an internal combustion engine. Regular fuel is injected into the engine or mixed with air in a carburetor. This mixture is then fired with spark-plugs. The burning regular fuel mixture creates expanding gasses in the engine that push the pistons to create a rotary movement. This rotation of the engine turns the rotor of the generator. The rotation of the generator rotor creates an electromagnetic field in the stator. This field induces an electrical current in the stator coils. The induced electrical current is relayed to the generator output terminals. This is usually alternating current (AC) but some regular fuel generators may have direct current (DC) output. Regular fuel generators commonly have voltage and frequency control systems. These systems ensure that electricity is produced at a certain level of voltage and frequency for the safe and effective operation of equipment.
Diesel generators and portable generators have different applications and features. Diesel generators have bigger power capacity compared to portable generators. These are used in fixed position in locations such as large buildings, factories and hospitals that require uninterrupted power. Portable generators are more suited to locations that require less power such as homes, small businesses or for emergency power requirements. Both generator types are designed for specific applications.
The generator should be selected according to the determined total energy requirements and power margins. For example if you have a series of electrical appliances with total nominal 4.5 kW power, it would make sense to select a generator model with a capacity of minimum 5.5 kW or more, which is approximately a 20% power margin. You can follow these steps to select a generator that meets your electricity requirements in a safe and effective way.
The first point to consider is whether the generator is out in the open or in an enclosed space to correctly determine the exact location. Both environments require different criteria. Common criteria to check for both open and closed spaces are:
If these factors are accounted for, you can ensure that the generator operates safely and effectively.
Standby (ESP - Emergency Standby Power): The generator has been designed for infrequent use to provide maximum power for emergency situations.
Standby is defined as total yearly operation with 70% load of power values under variable loads. Standby power is 10% less than prime power. It is used as a backup power source in areas with grid power. Overloads should be avoided.
Prime (PRP - Prime Power): Defines the power needed for the generator to run for a specific period of time at a certain load and provide power for a period longer than emergency situation operation.
The generator can be fully operated at a yearly average of 70% of specified load. It can handle maximum one hour of overload over changing periods (not regularly) for every 12 hours.
Continuous (COP - Continuous Power): This specifies the maximum power a generator can operate continuously for a specific period of time and is preferred for applications where continuous power is needed in industrial settings or where there is no main power grid.
Spare Parts/Labor and Maintenance Guarantee: Usually covers a specific time period or operation time for fixing generator parts or faulty workmanship. It can also cover spare part procurement and service support.
Engine Warranty: Defines the coverage of the generator engine for a specific time period or total hours of operation.
Generator Performance: The warranty may include a commitment to maintain the generator at a specific power level under specific conditions.
Warranty Period: Guarantees trouble-free operation of the generator under defined conditions for a specific period of time or total operating hours (e.g. 1 year, 2 years or 1,000 hours, 2,000 hours).
Kindly note that the scope of warranty may change according to maker or generator model. Thus it is important to take a detailed look at the conditions of warranty before purchasing a generator. Carrying out routine maintenance and adhering to the operation instructions is also important for minimizing potential problems to stay under warranty.
A specially designed sound insulation canopy can reduce much of the noise levels for quieter operation of the generator. If possible, placing the generator unit at a distance from the area that is powered can also minimize potential noise level effects. A soft absorbing base material can be placed under the generator to reduce vibration and thereby noise levels. Noise absorption materials can also help to reduce environmental noise. Periodic maintenance of the generator and selection of high-performance, low-noise models also contribute to low noise levels. Generators with electronic voltage regulators usually help to support low noise levels. Finally, a high quality exhaust system and pointing the exhaust vent upwards can reduce exhaust noise.
Overload on a generator means running a generator to make more electrical power than the capacity it was designed for. Each generator has a specific power capacity and when this capacity is overloaded a series of unwanted results may result such as generator damage, engine wear and shorter life span, low efficiency, overheating, voltage loss, excess current, outages and malfunctions.
Original spare parts increase the performance and dependability of the generator while prolonging its life. Added advantages are compatibility, performance guarantee, long life, durability, safety, integration and manufacturer support.
Synchronization in generators means pairing multiple generators or energy sources to work at the same electrical frequency or phase to synchronize the system. This process is important for coordinating generators that provide energy to the electrical system or generators that draw energy from the same same system.
Synchronizing equipment is important for the safe and effective connection of generators to the same electrical system. If the generators are not synchronized, they could be operating at different frequencies or phases that could cause sudden power fluctuations that may damage the equipment and cause problems during energy transfer.