In today's world, diesel generators are one of the most common sources of power we rely on, especially in emergencies where the regular power supply fails. However, using a diesel generator can be expensive because it requires fuel, and fuel costs can quickly become a large part of the overall operational cost.
Therefore, correctly calculating diesel generator fuel consumption can help reduce your overall operational costs and keep your expenses under control diesel generator manufacturer. In this guide, we'll explain the importance of calculating fuel consumption, the factors affecting fuel consumption, and how to accurately calculate diesel generator fuel consumption.
Why should you calculate diesel generator fuel consumption?
Calculating diesel generator fuel consumption can offer you several benefits, such as:
● It helps you develop a proper fueling plan.
● It helps you decide whether to purchase or rent a diesel generator.
● It enables you to calculate maintenance schedules.
● It helps you predict potential fuel shortages.
● It allows you to choose diesel generators with better fuel efficiency.
● It enables you to save money by minimizing fuel wastage.
What factors affect the fuel consumption of diesel generators?
Many factors can affect your diesel generator's fuel consumption rate. Some of the most common include:
● Size of diesel generator
● Generator load
● Engine type
● Generator speed
● Age of the generator
● Generator voltage
● Fuel type and quality
● Barometric pressure
● Elevation
● Weather conditions
Calculating the fuel consumption rate is essential to determine how much fuel you need to power specific machines. Regarding diesel generators, the fuel consumption rate depends on the factors mentioned above, which may result in higher or lower fuel consumption.
How to calculate diesel generator fuel consumption?
There are different ways to calculate diesel generator fuel consumption:
Method 1: Using a fuel gauge
Step 1: Start your diesel generator and let it warm up.
Step 2: Wait a few minutes for the fuel to stabilize.
Step 3: Make sure the fuel gauge indicates the fuel level correctly.
Step 4: Note the fuel gauge reading to check how much fuel the diesel generator uses during operation.
Method 2: Using a fuel flow meter
Step 1: Select a fuel flow meter and install it on your diesel generator's fuel line.
Step 2: Make sure the fuel flow meter is calibrated correctly.
Step 3: Start your diesel generator and let it warm up.
Step 4: Record the fuel flow meter reading during operation.
Method 3: Calculate manually
Step 1: Check the diesel generator tank level before operating.
Step 2: Start your diesel generator and let it warm up.
Step 3: Record the operating hours of the diesel generator.
Step 4: Re-record the fuel tank level after operation.
Step 5: Subtract the start tank level from the end level to find the fuel used.
Step 6: To calculate fuel consumption in liters per hour (L/h), divide the fuel consumed by hours, or use the following formula: Fuel consumption (L/h) = (end tank level - start tank level) / operating hours
Fuel consumption formula of diesel generator set
Generally, the fuel consumption of a diesel generator set is calculated as 0.2-0.25kg/kW.hour, and one liter of diesel is about 0.84-0.86kg.
Then 1 KW per hour is 0.2-0.25kg divided by 0.84 = 0.238 litres-0.3 liters, multiplied by kilowatts equals fuel consumption per hour. ie 0.238 liter-0.3 liter * KW = fuel consumption per hour.
Different brands of diesel and generator sets have different fuel consumption. If the generator manufacturer provides fuel consumption test results, it should be calculated taking into account the manufacturer's parameters. The calculation can be based on the formula above if there is no manufacturer's data. Choose from 0.238-0.3 liters depending on the standard of different diesel engine brands.
30 kW diesel generator fuel consumption = 6.3 kg (kg) = 7.8 liters (L)
45 kW diesel generator fuel consumption = 9.45 kg (kg) = 11.84 liters (L)
50 kW diesel generator fuel consumption = 10.5 kg (kg) = 13.1 liters (L)
75kw diesel generator oil consumption = 15.7 kg (kg) = 19.7 liters (L)
Fuel consumption of 100 kW diesel generator = 21 kg (kg) = 26.25 liters (L)
150 kW diesel generator fuel consumption = 31.5 kg (kg) = 39.4 liters (L)
Fuel consumption of 200 kW diesel generator = 40 kg (kg) = 50 liters (L)
Fuel consumption of 250 kW diesel generator = 52.5 kg (kg) = 65.6 liters (L)
300 KW diesel generator fuel consumption = 63 kg (kg) = 78.75 liters (L)
350 kW diesel generator fuel consumption = 73.5 kg (kg) = 91.8 liters (L)
Oil consumption of 400 KW diesel generator = 84.00 kg (kg) = 105.00 liters (L)
450kw diesel generator set fuel consumption = 94.50 kg (kg) = 118.00 liters (L)
500 KW diesel generator fuel consumption = 105.00 kg (kg) = 131.20 liters (L)
Tips to improve your diesel generator's fuel efficiency
● Service the generator regularly.
● Use high-quality fuel.
● Use fuel additives.
● Reduce the load on the diesel generator.
● Check the air filter regularly.
● Place the diesel generator in an open area for adequate ventilation.
● Get the adequately rated voltage of your appliance connected to your diesel generator.
This guide can help you improve your diesel generator's fuel efficiency, reduce fuel wastage, and even save you money in the long run. Remember to consider the various factors that affect the fuel consumption rate and implement the appropriate measures to improve the fuel efficiency of your diesel generator.
Overall, knowing how to calculate your diesel generator's fuel consumption can save money, improve efficiency, and prepare for potential fuel shortages. Understanding and implementing these calculations can also help you choose the right type of diesel generator for your needs and make informed decisions about using them. So, follow our guide to improve your diesel generator's fuel efficiency and get the best results every time you use it.
How do you control the fuel consumption in a diesel generator?
Controlling the diesel consumption in the generator is very easy. For example, remove carbon deposits, do not overload/underload, maintain the correct operating temperature, perform regular maintenance, etc.
What factors determine the fuel consumption of diesel engines?
Several factors make a diesel engine use more fuel. These include faulty engines, poor quality engine oil, substandard fuel type, poor maintenance, untimely servicing, overuse, adverse weather conditions etc.
How to increase the fuel efficiency of a diesel generator engine?
The better the condition of the diesel generator engine, the higher the fuel efficiency. You can do this by servicing it regularly, removing carbon deposits regularly, never overloading the engine, never underloading it, and maintaining the coolant temperature. Additionally, purchasing from a trusted dealer like BISON is always a good option.
FAQs
1) Why do some engines burn more fuel than others at the same load?
The most significant factor is the fuel consumption associated with the various generator sets' cooling fans and water pumps. For this reason, a 100kW diesel generator will burn more fuel at 10kW than a 10kW diesel generator set.
2) Can I trust the manufacturer's spec sheets regarding fuel consumption?
It depends. There are no established standards or regulations for how manufacturers measure fuel consumption for diesel generator sets or engines. Additionally, there are no standard conditions for these tests, so reported fuel consumption numbers can vary from brand to brand.
3) How much fuel does a diesel generator use?
A diesel generator uses about 7% of its rated generator output. So, a 40kW generator will (40kW*7%) burn 2.8 gallons of diesel per hour.
4) What is the efficiency of a diesel generator?
Ideally, a diesel generator runs at 40% efficiency over its normal operating range.
5) At what temperature should diesel fuel be stored?
To prevent diesel from oxidizing, it must be kept below 70 degrees Fahrenheit or below 21 degrees Celsius.
6) How long can diesel fuel sit in a generator?
On average, diesel fuel can sit for 6-12 months without damaging your generator.
7) Are diesel generators fuel efficient?
Yes. Because diesel generators use less fuel and run longer, they are more fuel efficient than gasoline generators.
8) What is the minimum load ratio for a diesel generator?
The minimum load ratio for diesel generators is 30%.
9) How many hours can a diesel generator run?
Depending on its size, a diesel generator can run continuously for 8-12 hours without refueling.
Conclusion
Finally, calculating the diesel generator's fuel consumption is critical to reducing operating costs and ensuring timely refueling for continuous operation. The best way to calculate depends on the type of diesel generator you use and its available features. Following the tips in this guide, you can accurately determine your diesel generator's fuel consumption rate and optimize its use.