An engine–generator is the combination of an electrical generator and an engine (prime mover) mounted together to form a single piece of equipment. This combination is also called an engine–generator set or a gen-set. In many contexts, the engine is taken for granted and the combined unit is simply called a generator. An engine–generator may be a fixed installation, part of a vehicle, or made small enough to be portable.
Many engine–generators use a reciprocating engine, with fuels mentioned above. This can be a steam engine, such as most coal-powered fossil-fuel power plants use. Some engine–generators use a turbine as the engine, such as the industrial gas turbines used in peaking power plants and the microturbines used in some hybrid electric buses.
The generator voltage (volts), frequency (Hz) and power (watts) ratings are selected to suit the load that will be connected. Portable engine–generators may require an external power conditioner to safely operate some types of electronic equipment.
There are only a few portable three-phase generator models available in the US. Most of the portable units available are single-phase generators and most of the three-phase generators manufactured are large industrial type generators. In other countries where three-phase power is more common in households, portable generators are available from a few kW and upwards.
Small portable generators may use an inverter. Inverter models can run at slower RPMs to generate the power that is necessary, thus reducing the noise of the engine and making it more fuel-efficient. Inverter generators are best to power sensitive electronic devices such as computers and lights that use a ballast, as they have a low total harmonic distortion.
Since the load on the electric generator causes the speed of the engine to fall, this has an adverse effect on the frequency and voltage of the electrical output. By using an electronic inverter to produce the required AC output, its voltage and frequency can be stable over the power range of the generator.
Another advantage is that the generated electric power from the engine-driven generator can be a polyphase output at a higher frequency and at a waveform more suitable for rectification to produce the DC to feed the inverter. This reduces the weight and size of the unit.
Many generators produce enough kilowatts to power anything from a business to a full-sized hospital. These units are particularly useful in providing backup power solutions for companies which have serious economic costs associated with a shutdown caused by an unplanned power outage.[3] For example, a hospital is in constant need of electricity, because several life-preserving medical devices run on electricity, like ventilators.
Privately owned generators are especially popular in areas where grid power is undependable or unavailable. Trailer-mounted generators can be towed to disaster areas where grid power has been temporarily disrupted.
Additionally, it is important to prevent backfeeding when using a portable engine generator, which can harm utility workers or people in other buildings. Before turning on a diesel- or gasoline-powered generator, users should make sure that the main breaker is in the "off" position, to ensure that the electric current does not reverse.[12][7]
Exhausting extremely hot flue gases from gen-sets can be done by factory-built positive pressure chimneys (certified to UL 103 test standard) or general utility schedule 40 black iron pipe. It is recommended to use insulation to reduce pipe skin temperature and reduce excessive heat gain into the mechanical room. There are also excessive pressure relief valves available to relieve the pressure from potential backfires and to maintain the integrity of the exhaust pipe.[13]
Ageneratoris best described as a machine, which transforms mechanical energy into electrical energy through combustion of a fuel. Although most of the engine driven generators have been argued to be hazardous to the environment but they offer various advantages to the users in industries.
An engine generator set is more commonly known as"Genset". They are generally rated in horsepower or a torque, watts or Kilowatts. The main components of an engine driven generator includes an engine, fuel supply mechanism, a constant engine speed regulator and a generator voltage regulator, cooling and exhaust systems, and lubrication system which have been described in detail in this article.
Generators usually use the following as fuel: gasoline, diesel, natural gas, propane, biodiesel, water, sewage gas or hydrogen. Generators of small size use gasoline (petrol) or diesel as a fuel, and the larger ones run on diesel, natural gas or propane. Some engines may also operate on diesel and gas simultaneously.
All these components play a crucial role in smooth functioning of a generator. The working principle of a generator is simple. The mechanical energy needed to turn the generator comes from the combustion of fuel through the fuel system. The coiled wires used, spin inside a magnetic field which causes an electric current to flow in the wire. The voltage regulator helps to control the amount of electric current that is produced. The coolant and exhaust system functioning in a generator helps to regulate temperature and dispel gases respectively.
Commercial electrical energy is mainly sourced by synchronous generators. Most common uses of these generators are to convert the mechanical power output of steam turbines, gas turbines, reciprocating engines and hydro turbines into electrical power for the grid which is mainly used in power plants.
These generators are designed to operate in complex and rigid processes of marine and industrial applications. They are highly efficient, reliable and certified by the most demanding Marine certifying agencies like DNV, ABS, BV, Lloyds. Common applications of these generators include diesel and gas driven reciprocating engines, prime and standby power and propulsion power for marine vessels.
About Engine generator generator
As the photovoltaic (PV) industry continues to evolve, advancements in Engine generator generator have become critical to optimizing the utilization of renewable energy sources. From innovative battery technologies to intelligent energy management systems, these solutions are transforming the way we store and distribute solar-generated electricity.
When you're looking for the latest and most efficient Engine generator generator for your PV project, our website offers a comprehensive selection of cutting-edge products designed to meet your specific requirements. Whether you're a renewable energy developer, utility company, or commercial enterprise looking to reduce your carbon footprint, we have the solutions to help you harness the full potential of solar energy.
By interacting with our online customer service, you'll gain a deep understanding of the various Engine generator generator featured in our extensive catalog, such as high-efficiency storage batteries and intelligent energy management systems, and how they work together to provide a stable and reliable power supply for your PV projects.
Related Contents
