What Is A Genset?

by Starlight Generator dieselgeneratortech

WHAT IS A GENSET?

At its simplest, a generator set or “genset” is a piece of portable equipment, consisting of an engine and an alternator/electric generator, used to provide energy. Gensets are often used in developing areas and other areas not connected to the power grid; places where power outages are frequent; and/or where an outage can cause especially significant or dangerous problems, such as deep in a mine. They can serve as the main source of energy or as a supplementary power source, perhaps during peak usage hours.

HOW DOES A GENSET WORK?

A genset is a combination of a prime mover, (typically an engine), and an alternator. An engine converts the chemical energy of a fuel to mechanical energy. That mechanical energy is used to spin the alternator rotor; converting mechanical energy to electrical energy. An alternator is made of two main parts; a rotor and stator. Spinning the alternator rotor through the magnetic field between the rotor and stator creates a voltage on the alternator stator, through the phenomenon of electromagnetic induction. When the voltage on the stator is connected to a load, electrical current flows, and the generator produces power.

In sum, the genset creates portable sources of energy. When the generator is used in conjunction with a diesel engine, as just one example, this creates a diesel genset.

ADDITIONAL ELEMENTS OF A GENSET

A genset is usually housed in a sound attenuated enclosure to reduce noise to the surrounding areas, and is typically made of steel or stainless steel, or aluminum. This cabin must be able to withstand corrosion and effectively manage the engine cooling process. The baseframe contains an anti-vibration system; it may also contain the fuel tank or the tank may be separate. Other elements include a control panel and an automatic transfer switch in case energy needs to be alternated between the main source and an auxiliary one.

BENEFITS OF A GENSET

Benefits of a well-built, industrial-quality genset are numerous, including:

Reliability

Fuel efficiency

Scalable design

Robust construction

Automatic or manual paralleling

Automatic loading control

Local or remote operation

Low emissions