Showing posts with label diesel generator maintenance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label diesel generator maintenance. Show all posts

Thursday, 5 March 2020

Service as a Differentiator.


Service as a Differentiator’ is the core mantra behind the way Mahindra Powerol does business. Powerol has an ecosystem of service culture within the organisation. A culture that drives everyone within the organisation and maintains the highest level of service excellence.

“Delivering Happiness” is the core purpose of everything we do. A purpose which continuously drives our field service engineers to uplift the quality and spirit of service. They are trained professionals and they hold the emotion of “Seva Bhav” close to their heart. We believe in creating a long lasting relationship with our customers which is based on trust and confidence in our products and services.

Happiness Delivery Preventive Maintenance (HDPM) is a specially designed maintenance program by Powerol. This is a kind of service which ensures 100% up time between two services. The field service engineers thoroughly inspect 54 checkpoints of the genset. They also educate the customer by explaining the importance of timely filter changes and changing of vital fluids (Coolant & Lube Oil). To know more about Coolants, check our blog: Using tap water in Radiator. With the help of a fully illustrated guide book they will also explain every checkpoint to the customer.
The 54 point service check HDPM is the first of its kind in the industry and it has gained many followers.k





Post Service Feedback (PSF) is a tool used to measure the effectiveness of services. Our representative calls the customer to find out whether he/she was satisfied or not. We take this conversation as an opportunity to serve them better. We value every penny spent by the customer and cross verify the bills raised against the job done. Only after a customer is 100% satisfied we close the service call.





We have digitized most of the areas of interaction with our customers. To know more about it follow our blog: ePowerol- The Intelligent Digital platform for customers. But our representatives are always there to help. This is not because we have low confidence in our digital platforms, this is because we did not want to remove the ‘human touch’ completely.

Mahindra Powerol takes pride in being agile yet disciplined organisation. What do we mean by agile? Other genset companies sell only the standard products they have in their portfolio. But we offer to fulfill any specific requirement of the customer. We are capable of modifying our product design very fast because of our agility and lean production design. These modified designs fulfill every quality benchmark we have set for our standard products.

Today we can proudly say that there are more than 3 Lakh gensets of Mahindra Powerol running in the country. We are the most preferred supplier for India’s largest mobile tower installation company Indus. Systems and processes we follow are nothing but the best in the world. We are a proud winner of the coveted Deming quality award. The Deming Prize is the longest-running and one of the highest awards on TQM in the world. We are the first Powergen Company in India to win this award. We have also won the Economic Times Iconic Brand of India award and Super Brand India award in the year 2018 and 2017 respectively.

We are not just a genset seller, we listen to our customers to find out what they want and then we guide them to realize what they need. We are a complete solution provider.

Now that you have read some examples of how we differentiate our services, but it’s only the tip of the iceberg. Follow this space for more of our stories to come.

To know more about our products visit us at www.mahindrapowerol.com  or call us at 1800-419-1999 

Friday, 11 October 2019

SMART CONSUMER - 10 THINGS TO REMEMBER BEFORE BUYING A GENERATOR


1.WHAT IS YOUR POWER REQUIREMENT?

Calculating the power requirement and then determining the suitable rating of generator you need is called as Generator Sizing. This is the most important factor to consider before you decide to buy a generator.






The determining factor for generator sizing can be answered by considering the followings:
§  In the event of a power outage, should the generator run the entire building or just emergency loads? 
§  What will be the peak demands during summer months?
§  If you have Motors, Compressors etc, what will be your starting load?

After you have considered the above, you need to identify your electrical equipment (electrical load) and sum up their power requirements. This process is also called as Load Calculation. There are many free ‘Load Calculators’ available on the internet. You may take help from a certified electrician. If you are not sure, take help from our sales representatives, they will be happy to help – it is FREE for you!!



2. WHERE WILL YOU PLACE THE GENSET?


The genset should be located where it is accessible for maintenance and repair, and high enough to keep the generator safe if there is water logging during monsoon. There should be enough air flow to let the generator breath properly.



Factors like minimum distance from residential buildings, silence zone near hospitals, fire hazards etc. should be considered. Compliance with local guidelines is a must.



 3. WHICH TYPE OF FUEL ARE YOU GOING TO USE?


The most common fuel types for generators in India are Natural Gas and Diesel. Cost can be a factor when choosing between a diesel or natural gas generator. 





In case of natural gas, the availability of the fuel source is important. 
Local government regulations may dictate which fuel types are available to your area.


4. WHO WILL BE INSTALLING YOUR GENSET?

Only a competent, experienced and certified authority should do the installation.You may choose the right agency through your trusted referrals.



We have trained technicians to do this job. You may contact our representatives for more information, they will be happy to help you.

5. HAVE YOU PLANNED FOR THE FOUNDATION?



Before the generator arrives at your premises, a cement concrete foundation of adequate size should be made ready. An inadequate foundation may lead to excessive vibration resulting in poor performance of your generator.

Only a competent and experienced authority should make the foundation for your generator.You can consult our representatives for any support and guidance, they will be happy to help you.




6. WHAT TYPE OF ENCLOSURE TO CHOOSE?


Most generator manufacturer’s make generators with a standard sound attenuated enclosure (which reduces the sound level). The sound level will be around 74 db (to meet standard CPCB compliance).
Some area may have a regulation of minimum allowed decibel level. For example, places near hospitals, VIP zones, silent zone, airports etc. The target sound level will determine what type of generator enclosure you need to consider.
We also offer Super Silent (54 db) variants of generators to suite your needs.




7. WHO WILL DO THE MAINTENANCE?



A Diesel Generator or a Gas Generator needs maintenance. Unlike a car, generators are often neglected. To ensure that the generator runs during a power failure when you need it the most, proper maintenance routine should be followed. 



Every genset manufacturer will recommend a maintenance schedule and it must be done.
Most of the modern generators are electronically controlled. Maintenance is not restricted to only Oil, Coolant and Filter change. A maintenance DIY for these generators is not a good idea.
It is best to have a maintenance contract with the manufacturer.

8. HAVE YOU THOUGHT OF THE TRANSFER SWITCH?

Do you need a Transfer Switch?

If you want to power just one AC and few lights you may use a power cord connecting the generator and the appliances. For small generators powering small loads this is a common scenario, you do not need a Transfer Switch in such cases. 




When you have larger loads and your loads are connected to an existing power panel then you will need a Transfer Switch. The Transfer switch is the link between the power panel and the generator.

Will you use the generator only for emergency loads or for every load you have. This will determine the ampere rating and design of the Transfer Switch. You can choose a manual Transfer Switch or an Automatic Transfer Switch (costs more).

9. WHAT TYPE ACCESSORY YOU NEED

You may need some special features which does not come as a standard fitment with the generators.We offer Remote Monitoring System and Battery Charger as optional fitment.To run the generators in extreme cold weather you may need a Cold Starting arrangement.





We also provide fully customized solutions. For details, please get in touch with our representatives, they will be happy to help you.


NOTE: Powerol generator do not need additional cold starting kit. Our generators are engineered to run for every weather condition within India.

10.  WARRANTY AND ANY ADDITIONAL COVERAGE

The standard warranty for generator systems typically ranges from two to five years.
It’s a good idea to understand the warranty duration and coverage of your generator and ask for upgrade costs if you prefer an increased coverage.



We offer special maintenance packages to suit your needs.To know more about our products visit us at www.mahindrapowerol.com or call us at 1800-419-1999 





Tuesday, 28 May 2019

Causes of Voltage Drop in Diesel Generators

Voltage drops can have an adverse effect on productivity and profit and to make sure that they don’t happen too often, we must understand what causes the drops. 


It is well known that a voltage drop in diesel generators is mainly caused by the speed and frequency of the generator system. However, there are many other reasons that can cause a dip in voltage. 

  1.  A main reason is that the load applied to the generator is greater than the capacity. This slows the machine down, drops frequency and voltage and leads to exhaust black stacking. The machine could eventually stall. 
  2. The Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) voltage gain is set too low to respond to load being applied which will put pressure on the genset affect the life of the machine.
  3. Clogged fuel injectors and fuel filters will supply less than required fuel to handle the load - this can cause the machine to slow down which will result in the reduction of hertz and volts.
  4. Sometimes the speed control setting is not accurately set, and this may cause the generator to trip. 
  5. If Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) feedback is from generator bus voltage transformer and voltage dips too far, all excitation could be lost and would typically result in an under voltage and over current trip.
  6. A loose cable connection in the output terminal can also lead to voltage drops. 


Mahindra Powerol offers 25 kVA & 125 kVA Gas gensets, apart from diesel generators ranging from 5 kVA to 625 kVA. To know more about genset maintenance visit us at www.mahindrapowerol.com/ or call us at 1-800-419-1999

Monday, 13 May 2019

Tips for Generator Maintenance

Mahindra Powerol gensets are engineered to require as little maintenance as possible. Below are some regular steps that will help improve your gensets’ life and efficiency. 


1. Routine General Inspection :-

When the diesel genset is being operated, several systems need to be closely monitored for leaks. These include exhaust, fuel and DC electrical systems. Since the diesel genset is similar to an internal combustion engine, it is important to check it periodically and ensure that oil is changed after every 100 hours of operation.


2. Lubrication Service :-  


It is essential to check the level of the engine oil. You may let the oil in the upper parts of the engine drain back into the crankcase. It is advisable to keep the oil as close to the full level as possible and follow Mahindra Powerol’s recommendations for API oil classification and viscosity. You should also use the same brand of oil as far as possible. 


Mahindra Powerol has a set of procedures for draining and disposing of the oil in an environment friendly way. 


3. Cooling System :- 


During regular shutdowns, make it a point to check the coolant level. (Remove the radiator cap only after allowing the engine to cool.) The coolant can be a mixture of water, antifreeze and coolant additives. The exterior should be examined for obstructions and all foreign material should be removed with a soft brush. You can also use low-pressure compressed air or a stream of water. 


4. Fuel System :- 


Since diesel is subject to contamination, it is not advisable to use diesel that has been stored for a long time. Water vapour accumulates and condenses in the fuel tank, hence fuel filters should be cleaned at regular intervals. Preventive maintenance should also be undertaken in the form of general inspections and checking of coolant level, oil, fuel and starting systems. 


5. Testing Batteries :- 


One of the most common reasons gensets fail are undercharged batteries, so make sure batteries are charged. It is also advisable to keep batteries clean by wiping them with a damp cloth. 


A battery hydrometer can be used to check the specific gravity of the electrolyte in each battery cell.  A fully charged battery will have a specific gravity of 1.260 and the battery should be charged if the specific gravity reading is below 1.215.


The level of electrolyte should be verified after every 200 hours of operation. If the level is low, distilled water should be filled to the bottom of the filler neck. 



6. Keep your Generator Clean :- 


It is highly recommended to check your genset periodically and ensure it is kept clean. Hoses and belts are subject to wear and tear - they should also be inspected thoroughly. Sometimes wasps can rest inside, regular checks will take care of such pests. 


Mahindra Powerol offers 25 kVA & 125 kVA Gas gensets, apart from diesel generators ranging from 5 kVA to 625 kVA. To know more about genset maintenance visit us at www.mahindrapowerol.com/ or call us at 1-800-419-1999

Tuesday, 28 July 2015

Development of Generic Checklist for Diesel Power Generator Maintenance.

The service department in Mahindra Powerol performs the role of foreseeing repairs and initiating activities that prevent mechanical failures. Effective preventive maintenance inspection ensures that diesel power gensets reach their optimum service life what we refer to as ‘Happiness Delivery Machines’ (HDMs).

Preventive maintenance program is very successful in improving equipment reliability while minimizing maintenance-related costs. Preventive maintenance is an action involving inspection, servicing, repairing or replacing physical components of the diesel generator by following the prescribed schedule. The primary goal of PM is to prevent the failure of equipment before it actually occurs.

Preventive Maintenance can be classified in various ways. It is broken down into the following fundamental elements : Inspections, Repairs, campaigns and replacements and Overhauls/refurbish.

At Mahindra Powerol ‘Happiness Delivery Preventive Maintenance’ (HDPM's) are carried out where a total of 54 points are taken into consideration including tightening of the belts and checking the diesel generators wiring. The four most common HDPM's that are conducted are:

1.       Replacement of oil and fuel filters

2.       Cleaning and replacement of air cleaner filters

3.       Top up/ replacement of lube oil

4.       Top up/ replacement of coolant.

Inspections form a critical part of PM at Mahindra Powerol.

Inspections are done to check vital fluid levels, to obtain information about the well-being of the diesel power industrial generating plant. Manual inspection procedures entail manually checking engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant levels; visually checking the engine compartment for leaks, listening for unusual sounds and other abnormalities.

Early detection of problems allows agencies to plan and prioritize repair schedules, order needed parts, and accordingly plan staff allocation. The alternative is addressing failures when they occur in service, resulting in service delays and operational inconveniences.

We’ve compiled a generic checklist of the list of things you must consider doing and the frequency in order to maintain the healthy life of your diesel generator. We recommend that you contact a Mahindra Powerol service engineer for the same.





Friday, 10 July 2015

Effective practices for maintaining your diesel generator.

Irrespective of the nature of the use of your diesel generator, good maintenance practices will increase the life of your dg set. Here are some of things that should perform and continue to maintain one’s dg set.
1. Check the level of your oil regularly
2. Inspect and replace the oil filter – once a year is a good general practice.

3. Check the belts & look for signs of wear & tear. Belts that are dry or cracking can lead to inefficiency in your generators performance. Replace them on time to avoid overheating of the motor.  

The above was for smaller portable
dg sets. For large generators the level of scrutiny in maintenance has to move a notch up. The Maintenance Schedule should be strictly followed and documented, logging any actions taken and readings for future comparison.  The best way to extend the life of your generator is through preventive maintenance.  

While on your maintenance spree, the maintenance provider checks for aberrations in the following systems to insure there are no mechanical issues that can lead to safety problems:

Electrical System
Check the battery terminals to clean rust at points. Clean points are as necessary to maintain a strong connection.  Ineffective Batteries are usually the primary reason of standby failures.  Batteries that have been maintained to the highest level weaken in time and must be replaced.  The only way to prevent a failure lead by a weak battery is testing and inspections. 

Air Intake System – If your system has a turbocharger – replace Air Cleaner Filter elements as recommended by the Manufacturer. Your routine inspection should include the checking the charge-air cooler for any debris which could damage or block the fins. 

Fuel System – All lines and filters should be checked for splits or thinning. Work on any lines that show signs of wear due to abrasion. Otherwise it would lead to an eventual breakage at a critical time.  Repair all leaking lines immediately. Diesel fuels should be drained periodically.

Exhaust System – The entire system must be tested for connection problems, any leaks must be detected and repaired.

Engine – Check all fluid levels. Please note that oil levels needs to be checked after engine has cooled down.

Coolant Systems – Check level on cool engine.  If level is low add to approximately three-quarter inch below the cap lower seal.  

Maintain these habits and be assured to give your
DG sets a larger life. Do visit our website www.mahindrapowerol.com to check the guidelines and specific timelines on maintenance for various products. 

Thursday, 23 April 2015

Prevention is better than cure… even in the case of DG sets

Like in most appliances, expensive or otherwise, it’s always smarter to prevent the machine from getting damaged. Here is a list of few checks that you need to do for your DG sets

1.  Fuel Systems:

Diesel fuel degrades over time and is susceptible to contamination. The fuel, pipes, filters and injection equipment need to checked periodically as this contaminated fuel passes through these parts regularly.

2. Batteries:

Do not neglect to monitor the condition of the battery charger and starter motor. This is usually the most common reason for a generator set to fail.

3. Coolant:

Leaking coolant or a poor coolant mixture can lead to overheating of the system, which would most likely cause a great deal of damage, sometimes leading to changing parts.

4. Filters:

Filters are used to avoid contamination of systems that can lead to failure and reduce performance. Ensure that the filters are cleaned regularly.

5. Contacts:

Switch contacts in the electrical control systems must be regularly checked & cleaned. Poor contacts generate excessive heat and leave carbon deposits that ultimately cause the contacts to fail.

6. Connections:

Technicians performing preventive maintenance should verify that parts like the radiator hoses and other fuel or electrical connections are connected well and are not leaking.

7. Corrosion:

Preventive maintenance schedules call for specific checks for corrosion of wiring, piping, fixtures, ancillaries and other components exposed to the elements.

8. Mechanical:

Any mechanical system is subject to wear & tear. Preventive maintenance technicians check known vulnerable components, such as belts, for tightness or wear & tear. They also verify that all fittings are tightened to the right torque settings.
 

Please note that this information is only for you to understand the importance of preventive maintenance  and not to take the maintenance job unto your hands.  Technicians who do preventive maintenance must be qualified to make all the electrical and mechanical checks that a maintenance schedule calls for, using the required testing and measuring equipment for each task. Do get in touch with us on www.mahindrapowerol.com and schedule a preventive maintenance test for your generator.