A diesel generator set consists primarily of an internal combustion engine and a synchronous generator:
Diesel Engine: Converts chemical energy from diesel fuel into mechanical energy through combustion. Its rated power is limited by the engine’s mechanical and thermal load, defining the maximum continuous power output.
Synchronous Generator: Converts mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy. The rated power refers to the output achievable during long-term continuous operation. The generator is matched to the diesel engine’s rated power to maintain efficiency and reliability.
Control Panel: Houses controls and instrumentation for monitoring and regulating the generator, including start/stop functions, voltage and frequency regulation, and safety protections.
Fuel System: Stores and delivers diesel fuel to the engine, including pumps and filters to maintain fuel quality.
Cooling System: Maintains optimal engine temperature using air or liquid cooling.
Exhaust System: Directs combustion gases away from the engine, reducing noise and emissions.
Lubrication System: Ensures proper lubrication of moving parts to minimize friction and wear.
Battery and Starting System: Provides electrical power for engine startup.
Voltage Regulator and Governor: Maintains stable voltage and engine speed under varying load conditions.
Air Intake System: Supplies clean air for combustion, typically filtered to remove contaminants.
Sensors and Monitoring Devices: Measure temperature, pressure, fuel level, and other critical parameters, feeding information to the control panel.
Diesel generator sets are classified as small power generation equipment, typically using diesel fuel and diesel engines to drive generators. They include essential components such as storage batteries for starting and control, protection devices, emergency cabinets, and other support equipment. Units can be installed on fixed foundations or mounted on trailers for mobile use.
Although diesel generators are primarily non-continuous operation units, continuous operation beyond 12 hours reduces output to approximately 90% of rated power. They are widely used as backup or temporary power sources in mines, railways, construction sites, road maintenance, factories, hospitals, and other sectors. The development of fully automatic, unattended emergency power stations has further expanded their applications.
Diesel generator sets are categorized by generator output and functionality:
Output Power: Ranges from 10 kW to 750 kW.
Protection Type: Equipped with over-speed, high water temperature, and low oil pressure protection devices.
Emergency Type: Designed for critical standby applications.
Mobile Power Stations: Divided into high-speed off-road types matching automobile speed and ordinary low-speed mobile units.
Export Inspection and Selection Considerations
When exporting diesel generator sets, inspection is performed according to contract technical or economic indicators. Users should consider:
Environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, altitude) relative to the generator’s calibration environment.
Cooling methods, particularly for large-capacity units.
Correct unit model selection and voltage regulation range (1%, 2%, or 2.5%).
Supply of wearing parts and any additional user requirements.
Export inspections cover: product specifications and models, structural dimensions, appearance quality, technical performance, operational adaptability, reliability and sensitivity of automatic protection devices, and compliance with contractual or technical agreements.
Diesel generator sets are widely used for:
Standby Power: Ensuring uninterrupted power for hospitals, data centers, and emergency services.
Prime Power: Serving as the main power source in off-grid locations.
Remote Power Generation: Supporting construction sites and field operations without grid access.
Peak Shaving: Supplementing grid power during periods of high demand.
Advantages include:
Durability and reliability under continuous operation.
Fuel efficiency and high power density.
Quick startup and stable voltage/frequency output.
Adaptability to remote and harsh environments.
Limitations include:
Noise, vibrations, and emissions of NOx and particulate matter.
Higher upfront cost compared to some alternatives.
Ongoing maintenance requirements and fuel storage considerations.
