3/1/17
Grainger Editorial Staff
Blackouts. Brownouts. Permanent faults. All of these power outages wreak havoc onto homes and businesses. They can cut into precious hours of work and inhibit the appliances that keep people safe during periods of intense heat and frigidity. Worst of all is when power outages occur during electrically powered medical procedures. That's where electric generators come in.
Electric generators are, essentially, life savers. They are backup power sources that convert fuel supply—usually propane, diesel or gasoline, into electrical energy. They are the primary sources of electrical supply during power outages. This energy is used in an external circuit. Unlike standby generators, the following are not permanently installed in one place, so they’re easy to start.
There are three main types of generators: portable, inverter and standby. Despite their differences, all of these generators should undergo similar generator maintenance to ensure long-term use.
A portable generator is powered by gas or diesel fuel and can provide temporary electrical power.
Here are some characteristics to note about these types of generators:
An inverter generator uses an engine connected to an alternator to produce AC power. It also uses a rectifier unlike other generators to convert the AC power into DC power.
Here are some characteristics to note about these types of generators:
A standby generator is an electrical system that operates with an automatic transfer switch that commands it to power a device up during power loss.
Here are some characteristics to note about these types of generators:
Generator Type |
Best Use |
---|---|
Portable Generator | Refrigerators, spray gun systems, nail guns |
Inverter Generator | Car batteries, laptops |
Standby Generator | Emergency settings, hospital machinery |
Maintaining a generator is a relatively similar process among the three major types of engines. First, it is vital to follow the maintenance schedule of the manufacturer with each type of generator. A routine maintenance practice is that of general inspection. Inspections consist of checking for leaks, assessing oil and coolant levels, glancing at the belts and hoses and checking the battery terminals and cables. It is important to inspect the oil as well, as it must be changed regularly. Oil change frequency depends on the manufacturer, how often the generator is used and your work environment. Typically, it is recommended you change the oil after 100 hours of operation, especially if the generator uses diesel.
Generator maintenance requires:
Besides the above best practices, it is also important to exorcise the generator on a weekly basis for 30 minutes under load. This will charge the battery, remove excess wetness, lubricate the engine and filter the fuel and foil. Any loose pieces found anywhere on the generator must be placed securely in.
You should also keep records of inspections and tests for future inspections and scrutiny. These records will allow you to stay in the know of your generator’s state.
http://constructionreviewonline.com/2014/07/7-steps-proper-maintenance-diesel-generators
http://www.curtisengine.com/docs/Presentation.pdf
http://hotair.com/greenroom/archives/2012/11/05/why-backup-generators-fail/
The information contained in this article is intended for general information purposes only and is based on information available as of the initial date of publication. No representation is made that the information or references are complete or remain current. This article is not a substitute for review of current applicable government regulations, industry standards, or other standards specific to your business and/or activities and should not be construed as legal advice or opinion. Readers with specific questions should refer to the applicable standards or consult with an attorney.
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