Buying Guide
Once you've decided to
purchase a diesel generator set, there are several considerations you must keep in
mind when choosing which set to buy, where to install it and how to install
it.
This guide
will help you make informed decisions during the selection process. Choosing
the right generator is not difficult if you take the time to analyze your
requirements carefully. dieselgeneratorsite sales
engineering staff is available to help you with all steps of the
generator selection and sizing process.
You will
also need to know a few terms and have a basic understanding of the different
types of sets and their operating principles.
Installation requires expert assistance and a strict adherence to local codes
and regulations. We recommend that you have a contractor do your installation.
STAND-BY OR
PRIME?
The first determination you will need to make is whether you will require
stand-by or prime power diesel generators. Simply stated, prime power is required when
you have no other source of power. A stand-by set is a backup to normal
utility power
TYPES &
FEATURES
Today's diesel generators produce either single or three phase power. Choose a single
phase generator if you do not have any motors above five horsepower. Three-phase
power is better for motor starting and running. Most homeowners will require
single phase generators - industrial or commercial applications usually require
three phase power. Three phase models are set up to produce 120/208 or 277/480
volts. Single-phase sets are 120 or 120/240. Use the low voltage to run
domestic appliances and the high voltage for your motors, heaters, stoves and
dryers.
GAS OR
DIESEL Generators?
We recommend diesel generators due to their longevity and lower operating costs. Today’s
modern engines are quiet and normally require much less maintenance than
comparably sized gas (natural gas or propane) units. Fuel costs per kW
produced with diesel generators is normally thirty to fifty percent less than gas units.
1800 rpm
water cooled diesel generators operate on average 12-30,000 hours before major
maintenance is required. 3600 rpm air-cooled gas units are normally replaced –
not overhauled at 500 to 1500 hours.
Because the
gas (natural gas or propane) generators burn hotter (higher btu of the fuel) you will see significantly
shorter lives than the diesel units.
FEATURES &
BENEFITS TO LOOK FOR
ENGINE
Engine block. For long life and quiet operation we recommend four cycle,
liquid cooled, industrial duty diesel engines.
Air or
liquid cooling. Air-cooled engines require a tremendous amount of air and may
require ducting. They're noisy too. Liquid cooling offers quieter operation
and more even temperature control.
Intake and
exhaust. Time and money savers include a large, integral air cleaner with
replaceable filter element and a residential muffler, which is built into the
exhaust manifold. This saves the need for an additional muffler.
The
lubrication system should have a full flow, spin-on oil filter with bypass.
Major brand
of engine – We do not recommend you purchase a Chinese built unit or off brand
engine, you will not be able to obtain the necessary follow-on parts and
service support available with our machines!
DC
electrical system. Standard 12 volt system should include:
Starter
motor and battery charging alternator with a solid state voltage regulator
Safety
shutdown system to protect the engine in case of oil pressure loss, overspeed
or overcrank and high water temperature
DC system
circuit breaker.
ENGINE
ACCESSORIES AND CONTROLS
Upon determining the proper size you will need, make a list of optional and
installation equipment you require. For noise abatement, we recommend a
residential (not industrial grade) muffler. A good primary fuel filter/water
separator is a must to protect your engine's fuel system. Stand-by sets may
require a block heater to keep the coolant/water mix at an adequate
temperature for easier starting.
AC
SWITCHGEAR AND CONTROLS
Switchgear can be as simple or complex as you want or can afford. Of course,
as complexity increases, so does cost. Balance and a good electrical advisor
are the keys here. The diagrams at right illustrate basic configurations for
prime power and stand-by systems. All systems require a circuit breaker and a
distribution panel. The circuit breaker protects the set from short circuit
and unbalanced electrical loads. The distribution panel divides and routes the
connected loads and includes circuit breakers to protect these loads. Stand-by
systems also require a main circuit breaker between the utility source and the
transfer panel. The transfer panel switches power from the utility to the set
and back so that both aren't on at the same time. Auto-start, auto-transfer
systems are available but are costly. Your supplier or contractor can help you
determine what you will need.
Please
remember - dieselgeneratorsite can provide for all your diesel generators from 2 Mega Watt
units for industrial customers seeking heavy duty industrial main or standby
to residential models. We can provide you with quality diesel
powered units. We offer only top quality products that are priced at or below
our competition who offer lesser brands!
