Diesel generators and construction information

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All about the diesel generator. Why are diesel generators so popular? It is simple, because diesel generators have a lower operating cost and last longer than other generators. The modern diesel generator is quiet and typically will require less maintenance than comparably sized gas units. The fuel cost per kW produced with diesel is typically thirty to fifty percent less than gas generators.

Did you know:
An 1800 rpm water cooled diesel generator operates at about 12,000 to 30,000 hours before major maintenance is required.

The commercial grade diesel generators are typically used when high output is needed and durability is essential. These types of generators come in closed and open options. The closed generator is one where the generator is enclosed in a metal housing cover. This helps protect it from the weather and sun. The open type is obviously open with no cover.

The basics of buying a generator?

For long life and quiet operation use a four cycle, liquid cooled, industrial duty diesel engine.

Try buying a generator that has liquid cooling. This type of cooling is quieter and has a more even temperature control.

Look for replaceable air cleaners.

Most generator come with an industrial grade muffler, but having a residential or critical muffler will make it operate quieter and your unit will last much longer.

Today most generators have low oil alarms and shutdowns. So be sure before you buy that yours has these features.

A tad bit of history of the diesel engine:
In 1892, Rudolf Diesel, created the concept for the diesel engine and then got a patent for it. Mr. Diesels goal was to create an engine with high efficiency. Natural Gas engines had been invented in 1876 and were not not too efficient. One of the biggest differences between the diesel generator engine and the natural gas generator engine was the injection process. Most natural gas generator engines use port injection or a carburetor rather than direct injection. In an engine, therefore, all of the fuel is loaded into the cylinder during the intake stroke and then compressed. A diesel compresses only air, so the compression ratio can be much higher. The higher the compression ratio, the more power is generated.

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