Questions You Should Know about New Diesel Generator

Industrial Generator FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

At Generator Source, many of our customers rely upon us to provide them with accurate and informative answers to their electrical, engine, and generator related questions. This results in numerous questions every day, some of which are quite common and we answer quite frequently.  In order to better inform our customers and website visitors alike on some of the most popular topics and issues we encounter, we have decided to begin a list of Frequently Asked Questions.  We plan to expand uponthis section over time and add any other commonly asked question that we encounter.  If you have any additional questions you would like to see showcased here please us with your suggestions and we will do our best to answer and incorporate them here.

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1. What is the difference between kW and kVa?

2. What is a power factor?

3. What is the difference between standby, continuous, and prime power ratings?

4. If I am interested in a generator that is not the voltage I need, can the voltage be changed?

5. What does an Automatic Transfer Switch do?

6. Can a generator I am looking at parallel with one I already own?

7. Can you convert a 60 Hz generator to 50 Hz?

8. How do I determine what size Generator I need?

What is the difference between kW and kVa?
The primary difference between kW (kilowatt) and kVA (kilovolt-ampere) is the power factor.  kW is the unit of real power and kVA is a unit of apparent power (or real power plus re-active power).  The power factor, unless it is defined and known, is therefore an approximate value (typically 0.8), and the kVA value will always be higher than the value for kW.  

In relation to industrial and commercial generators, kW is most commonly used when referring to generators in the United States, and a few other countries that use 60 Hz, while the majority of the rest of the world typically uses kVa as the primary value when referencing generator sets.

To expand on it a bit more, the kW rating is essentially the resulting power output a generator can supply based on the horsepower of an engine.  kW is figured by the horsepower rating of the engine times .746.  For example if you have a 500 horsepower engine it has a kW rating of 373. The kilovolt-amperes (kVa) are the generator end capacity.  Generator sets are usually shown with both ratings.  To determine the kW and kVa ratio the formula below is used.

.8 (pf) x 625 (kVa) = 500 kW

What is a power factor?
The power factor (pf) is typically defined as the ratio between kilowatts (kW) and kilovolt amps (kVa) that is drawn from an electrical load, as was discussed in the question above in more detail.  It is determined by the generators connected load.  The pf on the nameplate of a generator relates the kVa to the kW rating (see formula above). Generators with higher power factors more efficiently transfer energy to the connected load, while generators with a lower power factor are not as efficient and result in increased power costs.  The standard power factor for a three phase generator is .8. 

What is the difference between standby, continuous, and prime power ratings?
Standby power generators are most often used in emergency situations, such as during a power outage.  It is ideal for applications that have another reliable continuous power source like utility power.  It's recommend usage is most often only for the duration of a power outage and regular testing and maintenance.

Prime power ratings can be defined as having an 'unlimited run time', or essentially a generator that will be used as a primary power source and not just for standby or backup power.  A prime power rated generator can supply power in a situation where there is no utility source, as is often the case in industrial applications like mining or oil & gas operations located in remote areas where the grid is not accessible.   

Continuous power is similar to prime power but has a base load rating.   It can supply power continuously to a constant load, but does not have the ability to handle overload conditions or work as well with variable loads.  The main difference between a prime and continuous rating is that prime power gensets are set to have maximum power available at a variable load for an unlimited number of hours, and they generally include a 10% or so overload capability for short durations.

If I am interested in a generator that is not the voltage I need, can the voltage be changed?
Generator ends are designed to be either reconnectable or non-reconnectable.  If a generator is listed as reconnectable the voltage can be changed, consequently if it is non-reconnectable the voltage is not changeable.  12-lead reconnectable generator ends can be changed between three and single phase voltages; however, keep in mind that a voltage change from three phase to single phase will decrease the power out put of the machine.  10 lead reconnectable can converted to three phase voltages but not single phase.  For more information, here's a uthis informative article on changing voltages. 

What does an Automatic Transfer Switch do?
An automatic transfer switch (ATS) transfers power from a standard source, like utility, to emergency power, such as a generator, when the standard source fails. An ATS senses the power interruption on the line and in turn signals the engine panel to start.  When the standard source is restored to normal power the ATS transfers power back to the standard source and shuts the generator down.  Automatic Transfer Switches are often used in high availability environments such as data centers, manufacturing plans, telecommunication networks and so forth. 

Can a generator I am looking at parallel with one I already own?
Generator sets can be paralleled for either redundancy or capacity requirements.  Paralleling generators allows you to electrically join them to combine their power output.   Paralleling identical generators will not be problematic but some extensive thought should go into the overall design based on the primary purpose of your system.   If you are trying to parallel unlike generators the design and installation can be more complex and you must keep in mind the affects of engine configuration, generator design, and regulator design, just to name a few.  For more information and details on paralleling standby generators in critical systems take a look at this informative article.

Can you convert a 60 Hz generator to 50 Hz?
In general, most commercial generators can be converted from 60 Hz to 50 Hz.  The general rule of thumb is 60 Hz machines run at Rpm and 50 Hz generators run at Rpm. With most generators changing the frequency will only require turning down the rpm's of the engine.  In some cases, parts may have to be replaced or further modifications made.  Larger machines or machines already set at low Rpm are different and should always be evaluated on a case by case basis.  We prefer to have our experienced technicians look at each generator in detail in order to determine the feasibility and what all will be required.

How do I determine what size Generator I need?
Getting a generator that can handle all your power generation needs is one of the most critical aspects of the purchasing decision.  Whether you are interested in prime or standby power, if your new generator can't meet your specific requirements then it simply won't be doing anyone any good because it can put undue stress on the unit and even damage some of the devices connected to it.  Determining exactly what size of generator to get is often very difficult and involves a number of factors and considerations.  To get more detailed information on this subject, please visit our expanded article on Sizing a Generator.

Portable generators have continually increased in popularity over the past decade or so, but especially in the last few years. These machines are great assets to have on hand when an emergency strikes to keep you from having to go without power. 

The benefits of having a generator are pretty clear but finding the right one can be more tricky. Often it's an investment, so you don't want to make the wrong choice. 

Luckily for you, we've compiled a list of the top nine questions to ask when looking for a diesel generator for sale to make sure you get your money's worth! 

1. Is it the Right Size?

When you're thinking about how to choose a diesel generator, you'll need to figure out where you want to put it first. 

Generators come in all different shapes and sizes depending not the specific machine you choose. There's no sense in looking at machines if you don't know which will fit in your spot and which won't. Knowing the right size will allow you to narrow down the search field and make the decision much easier. 

Contact us to discuss your requirements of New Diesel Generator. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

Measure all of the dimensions and keep that in mind as you begin your search. 

2. Do I Want a Standby Vs Portable Generator?

Next, you should look into what type of generator you'd like and if standby vs portable generators. Both of these operate in a very similar fashion but with a key difference. 

A standby generator is installed in place and doesn't ever move. It's always ready to be used regardless of the situation. A portable generator is often stored in a separate location and brought out when it's needed. They both offer great power sources but have different maintenance. 

3. How Efficient is the Unit?

New vs used generators isn't as big of a question as how efficient the unit is. The mechanics of the machine is more important than whether it has been used before to determine if you'll get your money's worth. 

You want a generator that will use its fuel as efficiently as possible. Some machines will require you to use way too much fuel without much output of power, this will end up costing you much more in the long run. Checking for efficiency and output capacity is an important step in finding the right generator.  

4. Will it Produce Enough Power?

As you're checking efficiency, you can also check how much power it will be able to put out while being run. 

It's helpful to know how much power you'll need in an emergency situation to run the things that are absolutely necessary. That way you can match that need with machines that will only meet those requirements. This ensures that you aren't left having to decide what gets power and what doesn't in an emergency. 

5. What Kind of Fuel is Needed?

One of the biggest deciding factors in how efficient a generator is and how much power it will produce is what type of fuel it uses. 

The types of fuel all have their pros and cons, it's up to you and your specific situation to decide which is best. But it's important to look into all options before making your decision. 

It's also important to keep in mind if you'll be able to keep that fuel in stock and ready to go in the case of an emergency. Having a generator for emergency preparedness doesn't do much good if you don't have the fuel it will need to run as well. 

6. How Loud Will it Be?

No matter which kind of generator you decide to get, it's going to make some noise. They all do when they're in use, it's just a fact of life. 

But some generators have added technology that makes them slightly quieter than others. Depending on where you're using the machine, you may need to look more closely into the noise levels. 

7. Are There Remote Capabilities?

Depending on where you're needing to use a generator, it might be a good idea to see if there are any extra management capabilities that would be helpful. Most notably would be a remote operating system. 

If your generator is for a business, it's likely that you won't be present at the business when the emergency strikes. Being able to turn on and access your generator from wherever you are is a game-changer for keeping things under control. 

8. What Kind of Maintenance is Required?

Generators are an investment and something that shouldn't be taken lightly. That means that regular maintenance should be performed to keep it in the best working order possible. 

Every generator has its own unique needs as far as maintenance is concerned, which is why it's important to understand before committing to a specific machine. Luckily, most don't require a lot more than regular inspections and occasionally starting it up to make sure it's running and ready for you when you need it. 

9. Can I Add On to This Unit?

Everyone knows that things don't stay the same for very long. There are always things adjusting and shifting to meet new needs. This includes power supplies, which can change over time to match your home or business situation.

When searching for a portable generator, it's smart to look ahead and understand if the same unit could be added to meet a growing need. There are many configurations you can use with generators, so it's helpful to know what's available and possible for your machine.

Get in touch with Central States Diesel Generators today.

Call Us! 262-955- | (M) 847-997-| 

Finding the Best Diesel Generator for Sale

Everyone has seen how things can change very quickly in our world. You never know what's coming next and being as prepared as possible is always a good idea. 

Finding the right diesel generator for sale and getting it installed for your home or business will help bring you peace of mind and confidence in your ability to handle anything. You won't have to try to scramble to figure out a solution if the power goes out. 

If you're interested in finding a good generator, check out our listings and contact us today for more information! 

Check out our Used Generator inventory

FAQs About Buying A Diesel Generator

What Are The Different Types Of Diesel Generators?

There are two different types of diesel generators ' Air-cooled and liquid-cooled generators. While the air-cooled ones are smaller and portable they are less powerful. The liquid-cooled generators on the other hand are larger, quieter, and more powerful. 

Should I Buy A New Or Used Diesel Generator? 

If you have budget constraints and will not use the generator often you should buy a used generator. But make sure you give it a thorough inspection. If you need a generator more often, a new one, with a warranty would be perfect for you. 

How Much Does A Diesel Generator Cost?

The price of a diesel generator can vary based on numerous aspects. For instance, you would have to take into account the size, features, portability, and brand. Besides that, you should also include the cost of fuel, maintenance, and installation while calculating the cost of a generator. 

Are you interested in learning more about Genset Manufacturing? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!