Is your generator under-loaded?

Why is generator sizing is so important?

By selecting the right generator for your application, not only can you reduce emissions and fuel consumption, but you could be avoiding costly engine repairs from engine glazing caused by light loading. Diesel engines (depending on brand and model) are designed to operate at above 60% loading.

An engine relies on sufficient cylinder pressure to force the piston rings to tightly seal in the bore against the film of oil on the bores surface. When an engine is consistently run at less than 60% load, it leads to a drop in cylinder pressure which, in turn, causes poor combustion and subsequently low combustion pressures and temperatures.

The poor combustion allows unburnt fuel to reside and form an oily treacle-like substance that clogs the piston rings creating an even greater loss in cylinder pressure. Now that the cylinder rings are not sealing properly, combustion gases force their way past the rings and bake the oil on the cylinder wall into a hard, ceramic like substance. This is known as engine glazing.

If you suspect your current generator maybe under-loaded, contact the service team at Genelite on 1300 305 912 to carry out an onsite evaluation – when caught early enough, the detrimental effects of glazing can be easily rectified by load bank testing.

If you are in the market for a new generator, our team have the experience and sizing technology to ensure you are getting the most efficient generator to suit your application.