Diesel generators are dependable energy sources that are essential in a number of sectors, on building sites, and in emergency situations. A regular servicing or diesel generator maintenance schedule is necessary to guarantee their longevity and peak performance. In addition to increasing the generator’s performance, proper maintenance lowers the likelihood of malfunctions and expensive repairs. Extending the lifespan of your generator can save you money and effort, as well as the hassles that are associated with not having a dependable backup power supply.
How Long Does a Diesel Generator Last?
This question does not have a single correct response. However, there are several estimations. Because diesel generators run at 1800 RPM and get their cooling by water, they often last longer than standard generators, which operate at 3600 RPM and are conditioned by air.
Diesel generators can run for up to 20,000 hours or up to 12,000 hours before requiring an engine overhaul if they are well-maintained and serviced.
Furthermore, it will take 14 years to accumulate 20,000 hours at 4 hours per day. This amounts to approximately 1.5 decades of operation for you and your company before significant engine or generator maintenance is required.
The generator’s expected lifespan is determined by elements such as activity and maintenance. It is essential to prioritise the generator’s running time, even in the event of a power outage, with the goal of extending its operational lifespan.
The expected lifespan of the generator can be significantly extended by operating it frequently and giving it regular maintenance.
How Do You Extend Your Diesel Generator’s Life?
Purchasing a generator is a considerable investment for any company, so you want to make sure it lasts for as many years as possible. With the right diesel engine care, generators may last for many years; here are diesel generator maintenance checklist suggestions to extend the life of your investment.
Engine Oil
When your engine’s oil is exposed to heat, it loses viscosity over time and gathers dirt particles that cause sludge to build up. A generator’s overall life may be decreased by contaminated oil in addition to reducing fuel efficiency because of reduced oil flow, engine hot spots, and corrosion.
It is generally advised to have regular oil changes ahead of every 100 hours of usage in order to maintain the lubrication system’s smooth operation and avoid engine seizing up.
To help remove metal impurities and soot from the oil, change the oil filters. Moreover, your generator can be equipped with a low-oil shutdown function that guards against harm from operating on little or no oil.
Air Filters
Clean air is necessary for the combustion of diesel engines. Debris accumulation in air filters severely restricts airflow, which shortens engine life, reduces engine power, and increases fuel consumption.
Quality Fuel
The operational life of the generator is largely dependent on the grade of fuel it runs on. Low-quality fuel can block the fuel system, harm the engine, and require costly repairs. It is critical to use high-quality fuel that is free of impurities that can harm the engine.
Stale fuel might block the fuel system and harm the engine, necessitating expensive repairs. To prevent damage and repairs, the fuel tank and generator parts can be kept in good operating order with routine fuel cleaning and fuel quality testing.
Load Testing
When a generator is not frequently used or runs on a low load on a regular schedule, the optimal temperature cannot be reached, and carbon deposits from unburned fuel accumulate around the engine’s combustion chamber, pistons, and exhaust systems.
Load testing involves using specialised equipment to operate the generator at its maximum output for a specified period of time under an artificial load. In controlled conditions, load testing helps detect any possible weak points in your generator and guarantees that every component is operating as expected.
Cooling System
Check the coolant level at the specified intervals during shutdown times. Following the engine has cooled, take off the radiator cap and top off the coolant until it reaches about 3/4 of the way up. Additionally, monitor your coolant filters and change them as necessary.
For heavy-duty diesel engines, a well-balanced coolant combination of water, antifreeze, and coolant additives must be used. Keep an eye out for blockages on the radiator’s exterior surfaces, and then use a gentle brush or cloth to clean up any dirt or foreign substance, being cautious not to harm the fins.
Another essential part of maintaining a diesel generator to reduce overheating and high engine temperatures is radiator flushing. If you have a supply of low-pressure compressed air or a stream of water flowing in the opposite direction of the usual airflow, use it in order to clean the radiator.
Diesel Generators from L&T SuFin
A diesel generator is capable of starting the power supply on full load in a few minutes and can withstand severe loads for extended periods. The lifespan of a generator is dependent on factors like exercise and upkeep. You may extend the life of your generator significantly by operating it constantly and giving it routine maintenance.
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Ready to Upgrade Your Generator Engines with L&T-SuFin? Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation!