To choose the power generator that best suits your needs is a task that requires some consideration and analysis, because there are several specificities to take into account.
These equipments are the ideal solution to tackle grid failures, caused by technological malfunctions or even bad weather, because they are reliable energy sources that can operate continuously or in case of emergency.
However, in the market there is a great diversity of generator sets, available with various powers, numerous sizes, and different types of fuel. Therefore, to choose the one that best suits you, you should consider a few factors:
- The power you need
To choose the right power generator, you must take into account the power that is necessary to supply equipment and systems you want, and for how long.
There are several ways to assess the power for a generator set. Although engineers are usually in charge of the task, the responsibility may fall on private individuals. The solution, in this case, will be to consult the contracted bill and add 25% to safeguard for peaks that may occur. To be sure, there is also the possibility of using an electric power analyzer to measure power on the cables, which must be done by a professional.
- The mode of operation
Supermarkets, hospitals, data centers, and industries, among others, need uninterrupted power to avoid serious damage and to ensure the safety of the facilities and the people who occupy them.
Standby or emergency generators are reliable solutions for maintaining equipment running in the event of a grid failure, since, in this case, they take over the load supported by the grid until then.
However, there are still occasions when it is necessary for the generator set to operate continuously to ensure a more reliable and, above all, stable supply. When purchasing your generator, you should take into consideration which of the operating modes is the most advantageous for your project.
- The adequate power source
It is also important to keep in mind what you intend to use your power generator for, and how long you expect to use it. By foreseeing the time of use and the intensity of the load, you will understand which solution will be most convenient for you.
Diesel generators are more powerful and more efficient in consumption, which makes them more durable and their maintenance more economical.
However, the use of other fuels, such as natural gas or biogas, brings other advantages, such as lower emission levels and the possibility of other production modes, such as cogeneration, through its reuse in the form of heat or water vapor.
- The terrain conditions and extras to include
Conditions such as altitude, temperature, or proximity to the sea require extra care. Altitude causes both the engine and the alternator to lose power, so it is a factor to be considered when setting both components. The temperature can also determine power losses from this equipment, the ideal temperature being 25ºC for engines and 40ºC for alternators. Corrosive environments, where humidity and/or dust and sand prevail, can cause serious damage to the generator set components, leading to early wear and consequent failure.
To respond to these conditions, and also to the energy needs of your project, it is common to include extra components such as pre-heating resistors (to help start the engine in extreme temperatures), the automatic transfer switch (to ensure the start of emergency generators), the sockets kit (to facilitate the direct connection of equipment to the generator set), or the anti-corrosion treatment for equipment and canopies.
In addition, according to local characteristics and standards, you should choose between a soundproofed or open version of a generator to ensure compliance with noise and vibration regulations that may be in force.
Do you still have questions about this process? Do you need help choosing your power generator? Talk to our Team!
