The DP Generators team have compiled a brief explanation of a generator and how it works. People often find it difficult to make a purchase without this knowledge . Customers often wont ask the questions that they need answering for fear of looking silly or being “ripped off”. DP Generators has tried to answer some of these questions here for you.
The generator is essentially made up of three parts. An engine, alternator and a radiator. The engine powers the unit. The alternator converts this power into electrical energy and the radiator keeps the engine cool.
Generators can be run on diesel, petrol or gas. DP Generators specialises in diesel and petrol units.
Open or Canopied
Generators can be either open, or enclosed, canopied (sometimes referred to as silent).
Open sets are essentially as described in this guide, an engine, alternator and radiator mounted to metal skids. See picture below.
Enclosed generators are considerably quieter as they have a shell, canopy or container housing them. Sound levels or attenuation are product specific and measured in dBA. An average 350 Kva canopied generator will typically be 75dBA at 7 metres away. The sound of this is slightly over the volume you would expect during a conversation but slightly less than someone shouting. The picture below shows a 350Kva-canopied generator.
They are rated as prime, normal power output and standby typically 10 per cent higher for normally no more than 10 per cent of the time.