Synchronising Panels: Adding seamless symphony to Power

Synchronising Panels are used to ensure seamless flow of power through the DG sets when the main source of power falters.

The act is critical as it prevents any chance of an interim shut down of a critical device during power failure. A power fluctuation can result in the device restarting or even turning faulty.

A modern synchronizer compares the frequency and phase of the two voltages, and sends a correction signal to the summing point of the governor controlling the prime mover of the oncoming generator. When the outputs of the two systems are matched in frequency and phase, the synchronizer issues a breaker-closing signal to the tie-breaker, paralleling the two systems.

These synchronizers may include voltage-matching circuits which send raise and lower signals to the voltage regulator of the oncoming generator. If the voltage of the oncoming generator does not match the bus within set limits, the synchronizer will not allow a circuit breaker closure.

The synchronising panels can perform the following tasks depending on the requirement:-

• Synchronous operation of multiple generator sets with each other.
•  Synchronous operation of a single generator set with network
•  Synchronous operation of multiple generator sets with network
•  Synchronous operation of multiple generator sets with multiple networks

In order for the diesel generator sets to be synchronized, enabling them to run parallel, certain conditions need to be met. They need to have the same voltage, phase rotation, frequency & angular phase relationship. They need to share the load with respect to their ratings.

Check out our range of fuel efficient and silent DG sets on www.mahindrapowerol.com

Mahindra Powerol Ultra Super Silent Diesel Generators

By the sheer nature of its functioning, there are certain rules and regulations that the DG Sets fall in. The fundamental functions of these regulations are to curb the noise pollution that DG Sets may cause.

For instance the noise standards for DG Sets (15-500 KVA) should be less than, 94+10 log10 (KVA), dB (A), at the manufacturing stage. This level should fall by 5 dB (A) every five years. These rules are not just for the manufacturer. There is a need for mandatory acoustic enclosure/acoustic treatment of room for stationary DG sets (of 5 KVA and above). The acoustic enclosure/acoustic treatment of the room should be designed for minimum 25 dB (A) Insertion Loss or for meeting the ambient noise standards, whichever is on the higher side. The measurement for Insertion Loss may be done at different points at 0.5m from the acoustic enclosure/room, and then averaged. The DG set should also be provided with proper exhaust muffler with Insertion Loss of minimum 25 dB (A).

For DG sets of 5 KVA and above, the manufacturer should offer to the user a standard acoustic enclosure of 25 dB(A) Insertion Loss and also a suitable exhaust muffler with Insertion Loss of 25 dB(A). Meanwhile the user should make efforts to bring down the noise levels due to the DG set, outside his premises, within the ambient noise requirements by proper sitting and control measures.

The total sound power level of a DG set, at the user's end, needs to be within 2 dB(A) of the total sound power level of the DG set, at the manufacturing stage. Installation of a DG set needs to be strictly in compliance with the recommendation of the DG set manufacturer. Users are expected to set and follow a proper routine and preventive maintenance procedure for the DG set, which would help prevent noise levels of the DG set from deteriorating with use.

Additionally the generator sets above 5KVA are not allowed to be operated in residential areas between the hours from 10.00 p.m. to 6.00 a.m. The only exceptions to this rule are the generator sets of Group Housing Societies and Multi-storey residential apartments". The diesel generator sets above the capacity of 5 KVA in all areas residential/commercial/industrial shall operate only with the mandatory acoustic enclosures and other standards prescribed in the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986. Diesel generator sets used in social gatherings and public functions shall be permitted only if they have installed mandatory acoustic enclosures and adhere to the prescribed standards for noise and emission as laid down in the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986. Flouting of these rules may land the user/manufacturer under trouble. It may be a punishment of imprisonment for a term which may extend to five years with fine which may extend to one lakh rupees, or with both.

So while we use DG Sets to ensure our comfort, we need to ensure compliance with various factors so that the experience is as pleasant for those living around. 

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.

Mahindra Powerol adds Power to ‘Saudi Power’

The Saudi Power Exhibition gathers the biggies from the industry under one roof, all in search of the latest products to service their multi-million dollar projects in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Power showcases the latest in equipment, technology and innovative solutions for a variety of industrial applications.

The event that happened at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center, KSA from 11th to 13th May ’15, was aimed at creating awareness for business opportunities in the region. Saudi is not a stranger to people with business interests. Its increasing affluence, high traction on tourism and steady population growth has made the region a hub for prospective businesses.

Saudi has recently seen a massive surge of mega projects which includes projects in the space of education, hotels, commercial spaces, residential projects and even expansion of cities. This massive roll out has resulted in a massive increase in demand for power back up solutions. We at Mahindra Powerol believe that we could contribute to the growth story of this booming market.

Competing with the biggest in the world, Team Powerol displayed the 160 kVA genset at the ‘Saudi Power’. Not only did the genset impress key decision makers from top corporates and trading houses, it also left the competition in awe.

A virgin visit at the Saudi Power, key executive from the Powerol family ensured that the stall was well attended. Mr. Atalkar, Sr. Manager Customer Care IO, Mr. Shelke, Country Manager Middle East, Powerol’s local distributors from Jeddah along with the Indian partner GSP were present at the site for catering to the local queries.

The visits to the stall, the inquisitiveness and the interest, all together were a testament to the acceptance of the Mahindra Powerol products in yet another international market. With our products powering over 300,000 Diesel generating sets in India & in global markets, we will soon be seeing Saudi being powered by Powerol. The advantages on offer like fuel Efficiency, better load acceptance, minimal vibration, low noise levels and low maintenance costs is too big a lure for any business man worth his salt to ignore us. The recent awards won, the prestigious Deming Prize for 2014 instituted by the Union of Japanese Scientists & Engineers (JUSE), is a testament of our global standards.

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. 

SAVING ENERGY IN DG SETS

DG sets are instruments designed to power up your equipment while you face an outage. If you belong to an area where power outages are frequent, it’s imperative that you work towards maintaining or increasing the fuel efficiencies. Here are some quick tips for saving energy in Diesel Gensets:

1.     Ensure that you allow the intake of cold, dust free air. Use of air washers for large sets, in the case of dry, hot weather, can be considered.

2.     Improve air filtration to reduce possibilities of decrease in efficiency due to dirt. 

3.     It’s important that one ensures fuel oil storage & handling is as per manufacturers' guidelines.

4.     It’s imperative to ensure compliance with the maintenance checklist. See our blog :- http://mahindra-powerol.blogspot.in/

5.     Ensure steady load conditions, avoiding fluctuations & imbalance in phases to ensure an efficient performance.

The final and most important factor to consider is the purchase of a fuel efficient DG set. A sensible choice will ensure the higher energy saving. However, do ensure that the above mentioned pointers are taken into consideration. Check out our range of fuel efficient DG sets on www.mahindrapowerol.com

Controlling pollution in DG Sets

DG sets are by nature turning out to be a mandatory appliance in any residential or commercial complex where power outage is regular affair. Its role of keeping the outfit away from any delays or downtime caused by power outages makes it an important equipment to have. DG set owners have to follow the below mentioned measures to control pollution caused by these generators.

DG sets can cause 2 kinds of pollution. One is air pollution which is a result of the combustion of diesel being consumed to produce power. The second is sound pollution caused when the generator starts working. As a user one has to ensure that the generator manufacturer has used advanced sound-proofing mechanisms to reduce and limit the noise levels. Similarly the generator’s exhaust pipe should have an adequate height ensuring that the residual air is released with minimum contact with people. Mahindra Powerol diesel generators are manufactured abiding to all the norms of the Central Pollution Control Board the latest being the CPCB2 norms for diesel generators.

Frequent servicing of the generator is one way of ensuring that the pollution levels are low. Ensure that the diesel generators is not in a close & enclosed structure without proper ventilation because combustion of diesel without enough oxygen can create incredible amount of soot.

Use of coolant additives is another great way to improve efficiency of diesel generators. Mahindra Powerol recommends the use of anti-freeze coolants for diesel generators installed in sub-zero temperature environments. Use of vibration isolators for can also help in reduction of noise through vibration. AVM pads and foam pads are used in Mahindra Powerol diesel generators to arrest sound levels. Mahindra Powerol’s Ultra Super Silent Diesel Generators has sound levels of only 54db.

DG sets like any other equipment have a tendency to pollute if not used right. The cars we use, flight we take and even the poor refrigerator lying in our kitchen all causes pollution. We as users have to ensure that we minimise it.  Hence the first step has to be buying the generator from a manufacturer who gives reduction of pollution priority. A sensible choice will ensure a safer, less polluted environment. Check out our range of DG sets at www.mahindrapowerol.com , crafted keeping the pollution norms in mind. 

The Diesel Generator: Running India!

What keeps India running? Well, we would love to say a million other things but in literal terms it is this small, sometimes large diesel chugging, weaved between nuts and bolts  kind of machine that runs houses, small set ups and business in our country.

A massive grid failure would lead any nation crippled. But the amount of preparedness seen in India (Thanks to the unreliability of the power grids) would usually make an otherwise blacked out time, well, unnoticeable.  Hospitals, houses, shop and establishments have equipped themselves for a power downtime, even if it means for 8 straight hours.

Entire industries and neighbourhood’s rely on diesel power, including India’s massive call center and outsourcing campuses, private apartment buildings and small shops. Even the most utilitarian things, like the telecom towers that help power India’s much-vaunted mobile phone revolution, are often powered by diesel.

So why is it critical to have your home/establishment powered up with generators?

For e.g. In a hospital, you would need generators to keep your dialysis machine running. Or powering the massive outsourcing belts to give non-stop service to their international clients. There is a high possibility that the apps that you are enjoying on your phone right now is thanks to a diesel generator powered telecom tower. 

Tell us the times when you don’t want to left with no power in the comments section below. And don’t forget to check out our gensets on www.mahindrapowerol.com  

How does a generator work?

Remember the age old joke. A professor asked an engineering student. How does a generator start? The student replies, “Drrrrrrrrrrr”. We still trip on this one. This is a blog for those who want to know how the ‘Drrrrrrrrr’ happens. Read on.

Fundamentally, a diesel generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. What it does it is converts the energy from motion into power. So basically, it is important to understand that a generator does not actually ‘create’ electrical energy. It uses the mechanical energy supplied to it to create a movement of electric charges in the wire of its windings through an external electric circuit. This flow of electric charges is now called electric current constitutes the output supplied by the generator.

The generator of today works on the principle of electromagnetic induction discovered by Michael Faraday. Faraday discovered by moving an electrical conductor in a magnetic field creates electric charges to flow, thus generating electric current.

The main components of an electric generator are

Engine
The engine is the source of the input mechanical energy to the generator.

Alternator
The alternator produces the electrical output from the mechanical input supplied by the engine.

Fuel System
The fuel system keeps the generator operational (move the engine).

Voltage Regulator
This component regulates the output voltage of the generator.

Cooling & Exhaust Systems
Continuous usage of the generator causes components to heat up. It is essential to have a cooling and ventilation system to cool the heat down. Exhaust fumes emitted by a generator contain highly toxic chemicals that need to be properly managed. Hence, it is essential to install an efficient exhaust system to dispose of the exhaust gases. 

Lubricating System
Since the generator comprises moving parts in its engine, it requires lubrication to ensure durability and smooth operations for a long period of time.

Battery Charger
The start function of a generator is battery-operated. The battery charger keeps the generator battery charged by supplying it with a precise ‘float’ voltage.

Now that you know how the generator functions, check out some really cool ones at www.mahindrapowerol.com

How to pick up the perfect portable emergency generator?

We rely on power more now than ever before. A power outage means lifts not working, businesses stopping, security alarms choking above all, a dead phone battery. It is extremely critical for us to prepare for a situation like this and more importantly ensure that the preparation is relevant. You don’t want to live in an illusion that the issues you thought are covered don’t actually fully equip you.

So how do we estimate the exact wattage requirement? We could go about counting every bulb and every power point or simply select one of the 3 sizes. Medium, Large or X-large.

Medium Emergency Generators

Don't let the name fool you, there is nothing mediocre or average about these. Medium emergency generators (3,000-5,000 watts) may be relatively small, but they pack a good punch.

Unlike smaller camping generators, medium-sized emergency portable generators can simultaneously power multiple survival appliances, including your refrigerator, a water pump, and an air-conditioner.

Large Emergency Generators

If you want to thrive instead of just survive, consider a large emergency portable generator (6,000-9,000 watts) instead. To tap its maximum potential, install a manual transfer switches that can restore power up to 10 circuits in your main electrical panel. In other words, they can energize multiple rooms in your home (minus a central air conditioner). 

X-Large Emergency Generators

If you want the strength of a home standby generator without the shackles of being tied down, get an X-Large portable emergency generator (10,000+ watts). These portable generator giants generate enough power to keep your central air conditioner running through a summer or a black out. While electric start is standard on most X-Large models, they are not automatic. So, if you're not home, the electric start button won't press start itself.

So those were some quick tips on selecting the right portable generator. However, we recommend you visit our store at http://www.mahindraemall.com/powerol and speak to our expert power consultants or drop in a message on our website www.mahindrapowerol.com

for us to get back to you and clear your queries.

Diesel Generator Fuel Cleaning and Polishing

Diesel fuel lasts for over 6 to 12 months without any maintenance and even longer in some applications but it certainly does not last forever. However, just because lasts for a year doesn’t mean that you keep it that way for a year. All diesel fuel deteriorates over time, and the longer it sits inside of a storage tank or within your idle diesel generator, the more likely it will begin to degenerate. So what does degenerated diesel do to you?

When a diesel power generator runs on dirty diesel fuel, sludge builds-up & clogs filters. Sludge build-up and clogged filters inside a diesel generator can cause the generator to function inefficiently or not function at all during a power outage. The result of a dysfunctional power generator can be extensive, from causing damage to the unit to not providing enough power to cover all primary systems, and most importantly stop functioning during an emergency.

Here are some other benefits of running a backup diesel power generator  with clean diesel fuel

• Cleans and lubricates the injection system
• Fuel injectors are far less likely to fail
• Maintenance expenses can be kept lower
• Sludge build-up (sediment, rust, water, etc...) becomes less of a problem
• The diesel power generator will run with less smoke
• More reliable fuel for outages and emergencies

If you have not had the diesel fuel in your diesel generator and/or fuel storage tank sampled, analyzed, and monitored, the following may occur either within the fuel tank or within the generator itself:
• The fuel inside the tank will appear dark
• The tank will emit an unusual odour
• Sediment will develop at the bottom of the tank
• Exhaust from the generator engine will be dark in colour while running
• The generator's fuel lines and/or filters will appear clogged
• Starting system damage (battery, relays and electrical components)
• Fuel injection pump and injectors clogged or damaged
• The generator output and engine performance may be intermittent

Diesel fuel is an organic substance that naturally begins to degrade over time. This process cannot be avoided, at some point water typically finds a way in either during fuel delivery or condensation and that is what starts the bacterial growth. The only defence against the breakdown of diesel fuel over time is regular fuel evaluation and cleaning - often referred to as fuel polishing.  Fuel polishing usually involves fuel sampling, testing, and analysis plus sterilising and cleaning particulates, bacteria, fungi, and rust out with chemicals and filters and sometimes algae based solutions, depending on the product or provider you are using for this type of service.

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.

Used generators or new ones... which one to choose?

A wide range of new and used generators and engines are available to potential buyers in the market today.  While the buying cycle typically starts out with identifying a need, it’s followed by a research to determine what your requirements are. Most important is the next stage, how much are you willing to pay for a generator? And why? That usually leads us to face an all-important decision of whether to go with a new or used generator.  In this blog we will help you with some factors that you might want to consider while choosing your generator.

New Generators:-
The number one reason for buying a new generator is the fact that it comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.  The length and terms of each warranty varies greatly but is typically between one and two years, depending on the intended usage of the generator. And these warranties do not come with a substantial increase in cost.

However depending on the size, make and manufacturer, there may be a long wait time or limited availability, especially on the larger generators.  For companies who have the time to wait and really want the security a warranty offers for a year or two, new generators can be the best way to go. 

This really is the only reason why you would not prefer a new generator in comparison to a used one.

Used Generators:-
While they do not usually come with a warranty, it is often extremely advantageous to buy used electric power generators for a number of reasons. A key one is of course that used generators with low hours on the engines are often available at very attractive prices. 

Another benefit to purchasing a used genset is the fact that they are readily available and can be bought and installed very quickly.  There is no waiting because of limited availability and factory lead times.

Also, because most name brand manufacturers build industrial strength equipment, the risk is negligible.  Power generators are built to last and work whenever necessary, as that is their true function in most cases, to always be there when you need them the most.

The only real disadvantage of purchasing a used generator is just that, it was owned and used by someone else.  Therefore, you most likely have to go on the word of the seller as to the previous usage, history, and current condition the generator and engine are in.  This is why it's important you always consider purchasing from a reputable company who has the technical expertise and infrastructure to properly test, repair and/or rebuild these large industrial machines.  Most established sellers will test all their used generators for various loads, but many small brokers and individuals simply do not have the appropriate resources at their disposal.  Testing and servicing are both obviously critical.  Most tests often come with a verification certificate that details each units functioning. 

So if you are willing to wait and safety & security is of primary concern for you, then you must most definitely check www.mahindrapowerol.com to see the latest generators that we have in stock. If you are a price conscious consumer & are low on time, you may want to check the nearest, most dependable dealer to dole out a good used generator to you.  

Pros and Cons of Diesel and Natural Gas Generators.

The rising awareness of environment well-being and sustainability has raised questions beyond the realms of mere economics. Today choice of industrial investments or machinery for domestic use has parameter beyond that of efficiency and cost. In this article we look at the pros and cons of choosing Diesel v/s a Natural gas generator.

Natural Gas Generators
Natural gas is regarded as one of the most affordable and effective fuels among non-renewable resources for power generation. Generators that run on natural gas can be used to power both emergency and portable generators and hence is a viable option too.

A natural gas generator works in a manner similar to other generators. Such generators are commonly used in larger cities since the supply of fuel can be made readily available through pipelines. Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of the natural gas generators.

Advantages
• Natural gas is one of the cleanest fossil fuels when it burns as the emissions of sulphur, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide are considerably lower, in comparison to oil and coal.

• Natural gas does not produce a pungent odour, which is otherwise common in generators powered by oil or diesel.

• Natural gas generators are also effective in reducing costs when used to power homes as the electricity from the main utility source is a far more expensive alternative.

• Natural gas is also readily available in large cities since it is delivered directly through pipelines. Hence, when using natural gas powered generators, storage of fuel becomes less of a concern.

Disadvantages
• One of its advantages can also be regarded as a disadvantage. Since natural gas is supplied through gas pipelines, at times of natural calamities the supply of natural gas is disrupted. As a result, one might face a power down situation with lack of fuel, in a situation where you need to operate your generator the most.

• Natural gas is also extremely explosive and can be a serious fire hazard should the pipeline burst.

Diesel Generators
Diesel generators are extremely common as back-up units for emergency power supply.  Here are some advantages and disadvantages of them.

Advantages
• While diesel is considerably more expensive, it also has a higher energy density. So while you may pay more for the diesel, you will also get more energy out of the diesel than you would for the same volume of gas. Hence, fuel efficiency is by far the single most important advantage of diesel generators.

• Installing a diesel generator is the assurance of a steady power supply. Especially in establishments such as hospitals, this is very important because most of the machines used require constant power and one power outage might prove very risky

- Diesel engines do not require spark plugs or wires; this helps in reducing maintenance costs.

- The lifespan of a gas engine is much shorter than that of a diesel engine.

- Finally, being less flammable than other fuel sources, diesel generators also score high on the safety front.

Disadvantages
• Diesel generator can be considerably expensive in comparison to other generators.

• Noise has always been an issue with regard to diesel generators. While the newer models are designed to be quieter, the older variants can still be considerably noisy.

• Another drawback is that diesel generators are bulky and comprise large and heavy components. Thus, as opposed to smaller and lighter generators, diesel generators may not be the most preferred portable unit.

• Finally, given the recent trend of environmental awareness, diesel is also considered to be a major pollutant in certain areas.

In conclusion when it comes to choosing between diesel and natural gas generators, you will first need to answer two important questions:

• What is the main purpose that your generator will serve?

• How much are you willing to pay for your generator unit?

Mahindra Powerol forayed into Power Generation in 2002 and today is powering over 270,000 Diesel generator sets in India & in global markets. Our generators are designed to provide Fuel Efficiency, Better load acceptance, Minimal vibration, Low noise levels, and Low maintenance costs. Our commitment to quality has won us the prestigious Frost & Sullivan “Voice of Customer” award for the most preferred Genset Brand in the telecom segment and in the Customer Enhancement category. Mahindra Powerol was also recognized as Power Brand 2011 & Master Brand 2012.

Check out http://www.mahindrapowerol.com/ for some of the most outstanding generators.

Hope your decision favors both your pocket and the environment. 

How to select the wrong kind of generator?

So here’s a list of how not to select your generator. The title is fancy, but the article is reasonable. Here goes,

Mistake #1 - Buy the lowest quality generator

Generators provide power when you usual line doesn’t. The reason why it’s important is because work comes to standstill when we don’t have consistent power supply. Low cost generators usually are also low quality generators. Don’t fall in the price trap, its light on the pocket when you buy it. But from a long term perspective, these cheap generators will give you a big hit in the long term.

Mistake #2 - Operate your generator in an enclosed area

Never operate a generator inside your home, basement, garage or any other enclosed area. Since combustion engines create carbon monoxide that can be lethal, good ventilation is critical. Generators need a minimum of 3 to 4 feet of spacing on all sides (including the top). Generators also need an unlimited supply of fresh air for proper cooling during and after operation. Therefore, place your generator outdoors, away from doors and windows.

Mistake #3 - Plug your portable generator directly into the wall outlet

NEVER feed power from your portable generator into a wall outlet. This is called "back feeding" and can cause a very dangerous situation as power back feeds into the main electricity lines and can cause accidents. Also, when power is restored, it can feed directly into your generator, causing severe damage to your portable generator. A manual "transfer switch" is the key to safe operation of your portable generator for standby power.

Mistake #4 - Don't do your research: Buy any generator for any appliance

When buying a generator, you need to consider how you plan to use it. Generators are used to perform a wide variety of tasks, thus there are many models to choose from to suit these needs.

Mistake #5 - Ignore power requirements

"How much power do you need?" is the first question you need to determine in order to select the right generator and transfer switch. For example, a 3000 watt generator can provide adequate power for appliances such as microwave ovens, toaster ovens, lights, refrigerators, freezers, and TVs (as long as they are operated intermittently). Thus, to determine which generator to select, first determine which appliances need to be powered simultaneously and what the starting requirement of each appliance is.

So avoid these common mistakes and ensure that your generators run well. Check out our line of generators onwww.mahindraemall.com

Why Generators Fail to Start

Reliance on an unlimited supply of electric power helps organisations and societies to function smoothly.The availability of this continuous power allows businesses to sustain operations without hiccups. To safeguard facilities from the disastrous consequences of power disruption, many companies are choosing to invest in standby power systems.

It is imperative to for companies to understand how to operate and maintain their power equipment, as a lack of generator maintenance or operation knowledge will undoubtedly result in generator failure at a time when they need it most.

Let's take a look at nine most common reasons generators fail to start, and what you can do to try and prevent these from occurring.

1.   Battery failure

The single most frequent reason for generator issues is related to battery failure. Most battery failure is related to sulphatebuild-up — the accumulation of lead sulphates on the plates of lead-acid batteries. You can avoid this if you replace the batteries regularly. Some experts recommend replacing them every three years. Also, many battery problems are caused by dirty and loose connections.Hence maintenance is critical. Cable connections need to be regularly cleaned and tightened.

2.   Low coolant levels

The most obvious cause for a low coolant level is either an external or internal leak. One must pay close attention to any visible puddles of coolant around the generator. While many generators are equipped with low coolant level alarms, few have a dedicated alarm indicator for low coolant. Commonly, this alarm will be tied in to a high coolant temp shutdown circuit.

3.   Low coolant temp alarms

Low coolant temp alarms are mainly the result of faulty block heaters. Unfortunately block heaters fail periodically. Normal walk-through inspections should include checking the cylinder head (or engine thermostat housing) for temperature and verifying that the engine or block heater hoses are warm.

4.   Oil, fuel, or coolant leaks

Most often, oil leaks are not in fact leaks but the result of “wet stacking” caused by excessive no-load run time. When generators operate considerably below the rated output level, the engine can start to over-fuel or “wet stack” and damage the engine.Cooling system maintenance will help prevent leaks. Replacement of hoses and coolant every three years is recommended.

5.   Controls not in auto

“Not in auto” messages are the direct result of human error. The obvious reason for “not in auto” situations are because the main control switch was left in the off/reset position. This usually occurs after testing or servicing of a generator.

6.   Air in the fuel system

This is a common problem with newer generators that are not run on a regular basis. Closer tolerances within the fuel systems make it more susceptible to air affecting start up.

7.   Ran out of fuel

Mechanical fuel level gauges may not always be accurate. Unlike a vehicle that is moving and using a higher percentage of its tank's capacity, a generator tank has no movement, causing the fuel to become stagnant. Mechanical gauges may also stick in a position until vibrations break them free.

8.   High fuel level alarm

High fuel level alarms are required to prevent the overfilling of a fuel tank. The alarm should activate when the fuel tank reaches between 90% and 95% capacity. This lets the person fuelling the tank know when he or she should stop filling.

9.   Breaker trip

Verify that nobody has accidentally pushed a remote emergency power off switch.

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