In this article, we unpack industrial generators by giving an overview of their components, benefits, power requirements, and selection & sizing criteria.
Industrial Generators
An industrial generator is a versatile and robust piece of equipment that is recommended for several types of industries. During a power failure, generators can be relied upon to provide electricity, even for demanding applications across all sectors. Industrial generators are designed and manufactured to operate as a continuous power source in the absence of power, or in less-than-ideal conditions.
What are the main advantages of industrial generators?
- Operates as a continuous power supplier by either being the main source of energy or as standby power.
- Provides energy over long distances which is important for major construction works, logistic centres or hospital services.
What are the power requirements of an industrial generator?
Industrial generators can generate electricity in either single phase (1j) or 3 phase power (3j).
What are the various types of Industrial generators?
Several types of engines are used in industrial generators. The two that will be focused on are natural gas generators and diesel generators.
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Natural Gas Generators |
Diesel Generators |
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Uses Propane as a fuel source |
Uses diesel as a fuel source |
|
Uses spark plugs to ignite the fuel and air mixture. |
Compresses air into a cylinder to generate heat. Ignition will then occur when a small amount of diesel is introduced. |
|
Cost effective. |
Uses less fuel and operates at a higher efficiency as air is only compressed. |
|
Cleaner emissions. |
Runs longer on the same amount of fuel whilst providing uninterrupted power. |
Which petroleum generator is ideal for your business?
|
Diesel Generators |
Petrol Generators |
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Diesel is easily available. |
Better suited for infrequent or temporary use. |
|
Durable. |
Cheaper when compared to diesel generators of the same size. |
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Long lifespan. |
Produces less noise and a reduced amount of carbon dioxide. |
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Lower maintenance. |
Requires more maintenance as the petrol deteriorates the rubber components causing the engine to wear faster. |
|
Diesel burns cooler than petrol therefore reducing the heat and wear on the engine. |
Long term storage of petrol is difficult as it deteriorates. |
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The power that is produced from a diesel generator may also be lower in cost because of an increased efficiency and a higher energy density associated with the fuel. |
There is an increased probability of breakdown when compared to diesel generators as they run at a higher temperature. |
What are the main components of an Industrial Generator?
Engine: The engine performs the function of providing the mechanical energy and can be either run on propane, natural gas, petrol, or diesel.
Alternator: It is a component that produces the electrical output. The magnetic components found in the alternator work together with the rotor and plastic housing to generate electricity.
Fuel System: This is used to convert fuel thus allowing the generator to perform its function.
Voltage Regulator: This stabilizes the output voltage at variable loads.
Cooling and Exhaust: This is used to remove excess heat from the engine and dispose of it in the surrounding area.
Lubrication: The lubricating system is used to store oil as well as pump oil onto the many moving parts in a generator.
Battery: The battery is used to run the electronic components as well as detecting when the power is out, so that the engine can start within seconds of the outage.
Automatic Mains Failure (AMF) Panel: It performs the function of monitoring the AC mains supply, switching on the generator when mains power fails and automatically transferring the load of the building from the mains to the generator. The AMF panel also controls the return to the mains supply when electricity has been restored and switches off the generator. The AMF panel consists of speed control, oil pressure, water temperature and full level alarms.
How do you Size a Generator for your Business?
It is essential that you determine the total power required in kilowatts to select the correct generator size. It is also recommended that you consider the type of equipment that will be powered using the generator, as motors or compressors draw more power when starting up as opposed to when they are in operation. Data logging equipment is used to determine the total amount of power used over a specific period. The generator is then sized using the information obtained.
What does your facility rely on for power continuity? Need advice on the best solution for your specific application?
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Sources:
https://totalenergysolutions.com/what-is-an-industrial-generator/
https://www.wpowerproducts.com/news/types-of-industrial-generators/
https://www.shentongroup.co.uk/blog/amf-panel/
https://www.mustangcat.com/difference-between-gas-generator-and-diesel-generator/