Proper Maintenance of Power Generators
Power generators are crucial to numerous kinds of projects that require electricity. These include onsite work, events, emergency operations, and many others. Industrial generators serve as a reliable source of electricity for projects carried out in remote locations where there is no access to grid power. They are also an excellent alternative for projects that might put too much strain on the grid. For sectors such as oil and gas, manufacturing and construction , and others that require a continuous power supply, power generators provide a steady stream of reliable power during potentially damaging seasonal fluctuations in the grid electricity supply. They can also provide backup power in emergency and recovery situations.
Whether as prime, backup, or supplementary power supply, power generators have to be in good working condition to function correctly and deliver on all their benefits. Power generators are made up of numerous constantly moving components operating at very high temperatures and pressures. The key to keeping them working optimally throughout their life cycle, despite these operating conditions, is proper maintenance.
Proper maintenance involves proactive and regular inspection, repairs, cleaning, and general care. Some of the benefits of proper power generator maintenance are;
- Keeps generators running optimally throughout their life cycle.
- Generators consume fewer resources such as fuel, oil, and coolant
- Prevents expensive breakdowns and downtime
- Increases lifespan of generator
How to Maintain Power Generators
There are different types of power generators with slightly varying components and maintenance requirements. However, the following maintenance steps apply to all kinds of heavy-duty/industrial power generators.
Lubrication System
Engine oil is necessary to lubricate the numerous moving components of a power generator and cool down the engine. Over time, the extreme temperature variations and continuous shear force that it is exposed to during operation cause the oil to reduce, degrade, and lose its viscosity. The oil also gets contaminated by particulate matter and water. In these conditions, the oil no longer functions, leading to engine failure. To avoid this, check the oil level regularly and top it if necessary. The oil and oil filter should also be changed at intervals stipulated by the engine manufacturer. Make sure you use a brand of oil with the classification and viscosity recommended by the generator manufacturer.
Fuel system
The entire file system needs to be checked regularly for leaks, cracks, blockages, and dirt. The fuel filter should also be inspected and drained to remove dirt, water, and any other contaminants it may contain. It is also recommended that you check the air filter and clean it regularly. Certain components of the fuel system have to be changed after specific periods.
Cooling system
Heavy-duty power generators usually have a cooling system that prevents the engines from overheating. This system comprises a radiator and a flow network for water, coolant, antifreeze, and other additives. Regularly inspect the radiator for any leakages, rust, or obstructions, and clean it with a soft brush or low-pressure compressed air, being careful not to damage the radiator fins. Also, check all fluid levels and top them up if necessary, using the recommended fluids.
Battery
The battery of a power generator must be well maintained, as it is crucial for starting. This component is especially vital in standby power systems and emergency backup applications. The battery must be fully charged at all times to prevent hitches. It also needs to be tested regularly under load to ascertain its ability to deliver sufficient starting power. The battery also needs to be cleaned, and its terminals washed with a cleaning solution. Ensure that the solution doesn’t enter the battery cells. If the battery is an open cell lead battery, check its specific gravity, and charge it if necessary. Lastly, check the electrolyte level and fill it up with distilled water if it is low.
General inspection and cleaning
Power generators with oil stains and other forms of dirt are not an uncommon sight. This should be prevented through proper maintenance. Clean the exterior and interior of power generators and their surroundings regularly, as this will make leaks and damages easier to spot. Visually inspect generators frequently to ensure that components such as hoses, electrical connections, belts, and exhaust systems are in good condition. Generators vibrate vigorously during operation. This can loosen components over time, leading to damage. During general inspection and cleaning, look for, and tighten all loose components. Finally, identify and repair or replace all near damage components to prevent failure during operation.
Routine starts
This tip only applies to generators that are not frequently used. The engine needs to be run once in a while to lubricate engine parts, prevent the oxidation of electrical contacts, use up fuel, and prevent idle damage.
Tips for proper generator maintenance
In addition to the maintenance steps above, there are certain practices that need to be followed to ensure the proper maintenance of power generators. Some of these are as follows;
1. Have a proactive maintenance schedule
The items on a power generator maintenance checklist have different periods between which they have to be carried out. It is important to have a maintenance schedule in order to keep track of all steps. This will ensure that each activity is carried out at the right time.
2. Keep records
It’s a good practice to keep comprehensive records of all maintenance activities. This will help you identify what areas need improvement and determine the quality of resources and replacement parts used.
3. Don’t exceed maximum operating capacity
While this is not technically a maintenance tip or activity, abiding by a power generator’s capacity rating will prevent damage and increase its lifespan.
Power generators are often indispensable to many projects, events, sectors, and industries. As long as they are properly maintained, they provide reliable and steady power to cater for your prime, backup, and supplementary electricity needs.
At Red-D-Arc, we provide various types of generators with different capacities for lease or rent. We offer a full line of diesel generators, NG-LPG bi-fuel generators, and diesel-NG dual fuel generators.
Red-D-Arc, an Airgas company, rents and leases welders, welding positioners, welding-related equipment, and electric power generators – anywhere in the world. Our rental welders, positioners and specialty products have been engineered and built to provide Extreme-Dutyâ„¢ performance and reliability in even the harshest environments, and are available through over 70 Red-D-Arc Service Centers, strategically located throughout the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and the Netherlands, as well as through strategic alliances in the Middle East, Spain, Italy, Croatia, and the Caribbean. From our rental fleet of over 60,000 welders, 3,700 weld positioners, and 3,700 electric-power generators, we can supply you with the equipment you need – where you need it – when you need it.
The battery of a power generator must be well maintained, as it is crucial for starting. This component is especially vital in standby power systems and emergency backup applications. Nice post thank you so much!
I want to get a generator for my home. It makes sense that I would want to ensure that I maintain it properly. I can see how proactively inspecting and cleaning would be a good way to ensure that it lasts a long time.
It’s interesting to know that inspecting the generator visually can help identify any issues with the components and ensure that they are in good condition. I think this is essential when you own a commercial establishment, because the supply should not be hindered when there is a power outage. It’s for the comfort and convenience of the customers. So having commercial maintenance services regularly for that equipment will be worth it for your peace of mind.