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How a Diesel Generator is operated and maintained?

Diesel engine beside a control cabinet

The Main Parts Of A Diesel Generator

* Diesel Engine.
* Alternator.
* Fuel System.
* Voltage Regulator.
* Cooling System & Exhaust System.
* Lubrication System.
* Battery Charger.
* Control Panel

Diesel engine coupled to an alternator on a common skid
Electrical engineering illustration
Name Plate of DG Set

ADVANTAGES OF ADOPTING DIESEL POWER

■ Low installation cost

■ Short delivery periods and installation period

■ Higher efficiency (as high as 43 – 45 %)

■ More efficient plant performance under part loads

■ Minimum cooling water requirements,

■ Adopted with air cooled heat exchanger in areas where water is not available

■ Short start-up time

Disadvantages

  1. There is a limitation for the size of a diesel engine
  2. The life of plants is comparatively less
  3. Noise pollution is very high
  4. The repair cost is very high
  5. High lubrication cost

Operation

Electrical engineering illustration

1. RED BUTTON- Used to initially stop the engine.
2. MANUAL OPERATION SELECTOR SWITCH(manual hand symbol indicated switch)- It is located closely right near the RED BUTTON switch and used to manually operate the DG SET. Press the GREEN BUTTON after switching ON the manual operation switch.
3. TOWER SYMBOL INDICATING SWITH- Usually selecting for disconnecting the Station load from Station supply to DG SET supply.
4. AUTO MODE SWITCH- Press it for automatic operation of the DG set.
5. HOOTER – Usually used for reset alarm.
6. GREEN BUTTON- For initially start the DG SET engine in manual operation mode.
7. SPEED CONTROL – The speed control and its adjustment depend on the generator model. Follow its operating instructions.

Electrical engineering illustration

Maintenance

Cold-weather maintenance and starting procedures depend on the engine and its installed equipment. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Hand operating a lever and linkage on a diesel engine

Maintenance Aspects

  • Battery Set
  • Check the battery electrolyte level. …
  • Cleaning and tightening the battery terminals. …
  • Check the terminal voltage. …
  • Start the generator frequently
  • Coolant level should be monitored
  • Lubrication has to be done periodically.

Energy Saving Measures for DG Sets

  • Ensure steady load conditions on the DG set, and provide cold, dust-free air at the intake
  • Improve air filtration.
  • Consider fuel oil additives in case they benefit fuel oil properties for DG set usage.
  • Calibrate fuel injection pumps frequently.
  • Ensure steady load conditions, avoiding fluctuations, imbalance in phases, and harmonic loads.
  • Carry out regular field trials to monitor DG set performance, and maintenance planning as per requirements.