Generator for Hire
First and foremost, it is crucial to understand that generator sets are designed to operate with a load. This may appear obvious, but it is essential to load a generator set properly in order to ensure availability, maintain healthy engine operation, and prolong the engine’s lifespan.
When maintained correctly, both diesel and gas generator sets can run at light loads for extended periods without any adverse effects. After running at low load levels, it is recommended to operate each affected generator set under increased load. This helps raise the cylinder temperature and pressure, effectively removing deposits from the combustion chamber. Moreover, if low load operation is expected to occur regularly, implementing a more aggressive maintenance plan can prevent excessive component wear and minimize the chances of unexpected downtime. So, by choosing to hire our generators, you can maximize project efficiency.
That being said, the primary concern when dealing with low load situations is how to add load to a system when the building load is insufficient or if critical loads cannot be used for generator set maintenance. This challenge can be addressed by having access to installed system load banks or implementing a quick connect system that allows load banks to be easily connected to the power system for testing or maintenance purposes. Considering these requirements during the design phase enables seamless integration into the system, which can be more cost-effective than retrofitting a site after construction and installation are completed.
Allied Rental recommends a testing process for diesel and natural gas generator sets. For diesel generator sets, it is advised to load the generator set to a minimum of 30 percent load for approximately 30 minutes for every four hours of light load operation. Exhaust temperature measurements should be taken at the exhaust manifold before the turbo or in the exhaust stack immediately after the turbo to ensure that the recommended exhaust temperatures are maintained during operation.
The requirements for natural gas generator sets differ slightly. It is highly recommended to actively work on minimizing underloading of natural gas generator sets. Please refer to Table 1 below for time limits on low load operation for natural gas engines. Once the time limit for reduced load operation has elapsed, the engine should be operated for a minimum of two hours at a load factor of at least 70 percent. Adhering to these guidelines will keep engine maintenance to a minimum and enhance the long-term health and durability of the equipment.
For further information regarding hiring generator sets, please contact Allied Rental now.
First and foremost, it is crucial to understand that generator sets are designed to operate with a load. This may appear obvious, but it is essential to load a generator set properly in order to ensure availability, maintain healthy engine operation, and prolong the engine’s lifespan.
