Why a diesel generator
The diesel generator will have a longer life use than other types of fuel generators like natural gas, propane or gasoline. Because gas engines burn hotter, you will see much shorter lives in your gasoline generators. The diesel generator will have a lower acquisition cost as compared to natural gas generators. The maintenance on a diesel generator is substantially less than gasoline or natural gas generators. The safety aspect of a diesel generator is also substantial. The diesel fuel used in a diesel generator set is not flammable as it must be compressed in order to ignite. Diesel Generators are more reliable since they operate by using compression ignition and natural gas generators require spark ignition. Diesel generators are used in places without connection to the power grid as emergency power-supply if the grid fails. These generators are widely used not only for emergency power, but also many have a secondary function for providing back up power to utility grids.
Diesel generators provide powerful electrical output that is dependable for many different applications. Many brand names also provide diesel generators of all wattage ratings and diesel fuel can usually be found where gasoline is sold. Thus, the advantages of power, dependability, accessibility, and performance all come with diesel engines.
The major drawback of a diesel generator is still emissions and the environment. Diesel is produced from a fossil fuel and engines using it as a fuel produce air pollution and high sulfur levels. Diesel fuel also creates a distinct smell and exposure to diesel engine exhaust can also lead to health hazards. Big moves have been made to lower the pollution produced by diesel engines including different technologies like biodiesel. Diesel generators for backup power is a good alternative since the generator is only used for emergency situations. For more active generators, diesel is not the best option because of its high pollution and bad odor.
The future of diesel generators has a good outlook thanks to technological advances in making diesel fuel less pollutant and the increased research in biodiesel. Biodiesel is a new fuel that uses natural oils from products like soybean oil combined with a catalyst to create a fuel that can be burned for energy. Biodiesel runs great in diesel engines and has many advantages like longer engine life and cleaner burning. A diesel generator currently has many advantages but one that can run biodiesel as well will increase its value tenfold. With more and more research being done on biodiesel, the fuel can become very accessible and cheap for electric generators. Diesel generators should continually be used, especially for higher power applications and the biodiesel just increases usage.