Proportioning the Compressed Air Dryer
Trying to figure out which air dryer capacity is best for you? Here are some factors to consider. Read More…
The Dangers of a Load Too Small for a Diesel Power Generator
The
generator starts up, and not long after, white smoke and oil are seen coming out of the exhaust. It is new, and tested, good quality
diesel... I wonder what happened? This is the classic symptom of a diesel generator operating at a load far below its
specification. And it's a more common mistake than you might think. When connecting a 100 kVA generator to power a load that
consumes 10 kVA, it will not work โquietlyโ as one could deduce from a layman. On the contrary, she will be making a greater effort
than if she were fully loaded. Why does it happen?
First, it is important to understand that generator sets are designed to run on load. This may sound trivial, but properly sizing and running a generator set is critical to engine availability and long life. Manufacturer's maintenance intervals and component life projections are based on statistical data from operations with proper workload.
Incorrect operation of the generator set can result in reduced power, component damage, reduced life and unscheduled downtime.
In general, diesel generator sets, standby and prime, are designed to operate between 50 and 85 percent load, while continuous diesel generator sets operate best between 70 and 100 percent load. Operating diesel generator sets at loads below 30 percent for extended periods can impact engine life. This is because it needs to reach a minimum temperature to function properly, which is not achieved with a load below the specified.
The most common consequence of underloading is exhaust manifold lubricant leakage, or carbonization, which is a black, oily liquid that can leak from the exhaust gaskets when the engine does not reach the minimum temperatures and pressures. Visible leaks in the engine do not necessarily indicate a problem, but they do signal possible underload, low ambient temperature or very low temperature of the cooling ducts. In addition, long periods of operation at lower loads can cause deposits of material behind the piston rings, on the spark plugs or inside the cylinders, which can lead to loss of power, poor performance, accelerated wear and in extreme cases, damage. to the cylinder lining.
But if in certain situations, it is absolutely necessary to operate with low loads, there are some procedures to minimize its impact, in particular a specific maintenance for this type of situation. After underloading, the generator sets must be run at higher loads (you can use a load bank, for example) to increase the pressure and temperature in the cylinders, which will clear the combustion chamber of deposits. Continuous operations at low loads require a more aggressive maintenance plan to reduce excessive component wear and may require engine modifications.
Power system underload impacts both individual components and overall performance, so it should not be overlooked. While the simple
solution is to run generator sets at loads according to design requirements, the truth is that system needs change at times. This makes
underloading common in the field of power generation โ especially in standby applications. However, the effects of underloading can be
minimized with a meticulous operation and maintenance plan to preserve system health and avoid extra costs down the road.
Browse our on-site solutions
Mobile Air Compressors
Designed for demanding job sites, our Chicago Pneumatic mobile air compressors allow operators to run multiple hand tools and hammers at the same time for maximum efficiency. Theyโre also ideal for sandblasting, irrigation blow-outs and general construction applications.
With noise reducing enclosures, straightforward controls and a low-maintenance tow-able design, theyโre built for reliable performance day in and day out.
The range of Red Rock air compressors are the latest and toughest edition to the Chicago Pneumatic portfolio. When it comes to this range of air compressors, we know what you are looking for: Portable, Powerful and Tough.
Chat to our experts, we will help you to answer questions about what can you use the compressor for, what compressor is the best and learn about air compressor efficiency.
Sub Categories
Mobile Diesel Generators
Ash Air's range of Chicago Pneumatic Mobile CPDG diesel generators have been designed to meet the tough demands of the construction industry.
Using proven technology, sturdy design and ease of operation, the CPDG provides you with a dependable source for all your electrical power needs. With integrated forklift slots and a lifting beam, the CPDG range of generators are easy to move and designed to be highly impact resistant.
Other features include easy to read gauges, easy to access maintenance points and a reinforced structure. Chicago Pneumatic products are backed by more than a century of experience working with construction industry customers.
We understand what it takes to be productive on the job, and it shows in our CPPG portable generator and CPDG mobile diesel generator line. Get in touch with our team today!
Do you have an idea for our #expertcorner?ย Let
us know!
Who we are and how Ash Air can help your business!
Ash Air has been around in New Zealand since 1979, and weโve grown into a nationwide company with international support and a reputation for quality and reliability.We look after all things compressed air for your business!
- Reciprocating, Screw, air compressors
- Vacuum pumps
- Nitrogen
- An extensive line of air treatment components
Ash Air's range of Chicago Pneumatic, Alup, Pneumatech, and Quincy compressors are used extensively around the world in industries ranging from oil and gas to food, automotive and farming, and we bring you these world class compressors here in the land of the long white cloud.Our technicians are compressed air equipment experts and are dedicated to addressing customer needs. Supported by a 13 locations nationwide, Ash Air offers one of the widest selections of compressed air equipment and parts available today in New Zealand.
Reliability and Efficiency
With Ash Air compressors, you can count on reliability and high performance for even the most demanding applications. We focus our efforts on the following:
- Increasing uptime
- Reducing unexpected repairs
- Reducing energy consumption
- Improving the cleanliness of compressed air
Talk to the team today:
Read more from our #expertcorner
.jpeg)
Maintenance budget: 8 factors to consider
Just like any other equipment, a compressed air installation also requires the necessary maintenance work during its entire lifespan. Even though maintenance costs are only about 5 to 10% of a machine's annual operating costs, failure to budget for maintenance can have potentially disastrous consequences. Read More…
The air dyer is one of the most ignored cooler in the system. A dirty condenser will cause water in the lines, or worse it will cause complete dryer failure. Read More…
Why Replace CO2 with Nitrogen in your Brewery
Using nitrogen is not about fully replacing CO2, but it can reduce their consumption of CO2 by close to 70%. Using nitrogen is about sustainability. Creating your own nitrogen is easy and will reduce the use of a greenhouse gas, which is better for the environment. It will also save you money as early as month one adding that savings to your bottom line. Read More…
What do I need to know about ICONS?
ICONS: Intelligent Connectivity System: The insight into your compressed air system, wherever you are. Learn More about ICONS in this article here! Read More…
A question that is occasionally asked by our customers to Ash Air is 'what is the cost of compressed air?'ย This article looks at the product costs involved with compressed air, as well as minimising the energy cost of compressors and cost allocation. When looking at these factors, we need to realise what causes dropped efficiency of your compressor, leading to increased costs of compressed air. Read More…
How to avoid falling objects when working at heights
You may have great fall protection measures in place to keep employees safe when working at height, but what about their co-workers below? Dropped tools and other falling objects are a major hazard โ and one that isnโt always fully addressed.ย Read More…
Providing a safe working environment for operators is essential, especially when using pneumatic tools and compressed air. If there is a failure in the air network and the hose is not adequately clamped, the resulting whiplash could be devastating. Failure to follow best practice can result in injuries, associated production downtime and decreased productivity. Read More…
Why do I need a dryer for my compressor?
A common questions asked is why do I need an air dryer for my compressor? Typically, air compressors produce water, and although the
water can be drained, there can still be aerosol and vapour droplets that are present. This is because water cannoet be compressed. Water
can damage your compressor by corroding the valves, pipes and machinery controls, which will cost you time and money to resolve. In
the long run, the cost of a new compressor is a small price to pay compared to the loss of production that could potentially arise due
to water damage in your compressor.
Read More…
