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29-06- EDITED
The genset plays an important role in many projects. Gensets, also known as generators or generator sets, ensure the main stage of a festival is operational and that heavy duty construction projects are not dependent on the grid. Because of backup generators hospitals are never without power and because of offshore gensets energy is available at sea. This article elaborates on how these gensets work and the various types that are available.
A genset is a machine that generates power. Although there are various kinds of gensets that generate various kinds of energy, this article specifically discusses gensets that generate electrical energy. Gensets are often used in places that do not have grid access, for projects that require more energy than the grid can provide or for situations where power certainty is so important that a backup is required in case of grid failure. Gensets lend themselves very well for these applications, because they can operate fully independently from the grid. A 15 kVA genset is sufficient for powering a crew wagon, a kVA genset can power an entire data center. The most suitable genset for a situation depends on the power demand and the specific details of the location and project.
Designing, building, delivering, maintaining and innovating gensets has been Bredenoords core business for eighty years and counting. Through this we ensure that our clients always have access to sufficient power, no matter their projects location or circumstances.
A genset consists of two main parts: an engine and a generator. The engine, usually a combustion engine, converts fuel into mechanical energy, also known as kinetic energy. The generator then converts this energy into electrical energy in the form of an alternating current. As such, Bredenoords gensets deliver AC.
The concept of gensets delivering direct current is currently being researched. This is because solar energy and wind energy are generated in the form of DC. In order to be able to work with this current anyway, it can be converted into AC. Because the return of DC is greater than that of AC, the possibilities of fully transferring to DC are being investigated globally. Inland waterway transport has already mostly completed this process. More and more vessels are being equipped with these systems.
There are various kinds of gensets available, of which the precise functioning is partially determined by the fuel they use. Diesel is the most commonly used fuel, but its also possible to use gas. A benefit of a diesel generator is that diesel is cheaper, not to mention that moving a diesel tank is both safer and easier than moving a gas tank. Because of this Bredenoord currently only offers diesel engines.
More sustainable energy sources are being extensively researched in the context of the energy transition. Biofuels made of organic material, such as biodiesel, can serve as a direct replacement for regular diesel and are fully sustainable if they are second generation biofuels. Bredenoord offers both regular diesel and the second generation biodiesel HVO. In addition Bredenoord offers GTL, a synthetic diesel that combusts more fully and is therefore cleaner than regular diesel. Bredenoords gensets can run on each of these fuels.
Other alternative energy sources that are currently being researched are, among others, formic acid, hydrogen and methanol. Bredenoord can already offer a hydrogen-fueled energy solution: the Purity. This is a fuel cell generator based on hydrogen fuel cell technology (PEM technology). When other alternative fuels have been developed to the point where they become interesting and relevant to Bredenoords customers, they will naturally be added to the product range in the form of a practical energy solution.
By cleverly combining gensets with other systems and technologies its possible to save a lot of fuel. This can be achieved, for example, by combining a genset with an ESaver or Big Battery Box. The genset will only run to recharge the battery when it is running low, or during peak demand. In doing so the hybrid solution saves a lot of fuel, because the genset will be able to run as efficiently as possible: at 80% of its total power. This applies particularly to situations with a fluctuating energy demand or an energy demand that is lower than the gensets optimal power range.
In addition Bredenoord offers hybrid solutions with solar energy. The Mini-SunBox and Mobile Solar Plant generate solar energy. A transformator converts the generated DC to AC. When solar energy is insufficient to meet the power demand, an ESaver or Big Battery Box can join in. During peak demand or when the batteries are empty, the genset will then assist in meeting the power demand and recharge the batteries. Contact Bredenoords Solutions department for a custom hybrid solution.
The possibilities of gensets are endless. Gensets can be used in virtually any situation in which the grid cannot fulfill the power demand or where additional measures are required in order to ensure the availability of power. Different situations have different limits and demands, so Bredenoords fleet consists of a large variety of gensets and accessories that allow for the assembly of a suitable energy solution for any situation.
Operation at sea has to meet considerably stricter demands than operation on land. Due to the absence of the grid, offshore operation always requires a different energy solution, which is often a genset. This genset must withstand extreme circumstances and comply to various rules and regulations. The Heavy Duty Offshore Genset has been designed specifically for operating at sea and complies to the NORSOK requirements and is IMO Tier II and GCBS certified. In addition Bredenoord developed an offshore frame that meets the DNV 2.7-1 requirements, which allow the genset to be lifted on board at sea.
The grid is available on most festival locations, but this is often not sufficient. During peak demand, such as the main stage during headlining acts, festivals require far more energy. Gensets thereby form an excellent solution for festivals. Another reason to use gensets is that they can serve as a backup, ensuring that the program can continue as planned, no matter what happens. It would, of course, be unacceptable for a show to be interrupted due to a technical failure. To prevent this its quite common to use multiple gensets as backup, so that even the smallest risks, such as a malfunctioning genset, has been covered.
Bredenoord has powered a variety of festivals, such as Lowlands, Extrema Outdoor Belgium and De Zwarte Cross.
In the field of construction the grid often cannot meet the energy demand either. When building something new a grid connection is often not yet available at all, so an alternative will be required until, at the very least, this connection had been established. Power for construction often comes with additional challenges in the form of rules and regulations surrounding emissions and noise pollution towards the local residents. There are, however, various ways to meet both the energy demand and these regulations. Silent gensets reduce noise pollution and the Clear Air filter can reduce the soot emissions by up to 99.9%. When working with a genset in a 20ft container its also possible to use a Denox installation, which reduces NOx emissions by up to 85%. The combination of a Stage III A genset, a soot filter and a Denox installation allow for the demands of Stage V to be met already.
In addition various systems on the construction site can be powered more efficiently and sustainably. Lighting and CCTV, for example, dont need a lot of power, but by lack of a grid connection a genset would have to run continuously. This can be solved by using an ESaver, or, in case of lighting, the Clear PLM Light tower. Efficient use of batteries can significantly reduce the amount of fuel required for such applications.
In some situations continuous access to power is crucial. For a hospital or data center it is unacceptable to be without power for even a moment. In case of unexpected grid failure a backup power installation consisting of a no break installation and a genset will ensure all processes on location can continue as usual.
During grid failure the backup power will start up and take over the power supply until the grid is available again. The most common choice is a genset with enough power to handle the energy demand of the entire location with all available equipment running at once. Bredenoord can provide both the backup power installation and its maintenance, as well as a no-break installation in cooperation with external partners.
Are you looking for a reliable energy solution for short or long term use? Bredenoord can deliver at short notice from a large fleet of rental gensets. In case of a more complex energy demand we gladly help you find the most fitting situation. Contact us for a non-committal advice.
-10-13
Faults, blackouts and brownouts wreak havoc on businesses and homes. These power outages can be disruptive and damage valuables like electrical appliances. The worst is when power outages affect medical facilities and halt operations. However, this is where generators step in and are lifesavers in many ways.
When you search for backup options for a home, workplace, or business, you may come across the term genset. What does this term mean? And what is this machine used for?
This article will give a complete analysis of gensets and generators. BISON will discuss types, working principles, applications and what gensets and generators can be used for.
Genset is short for generator set and is commonly used interchangeably with the term generator. Most hospitals, businesses and homes today require a stable and constant electrical supply. A genset is a source of electricity that generates electricity with the help of a motor. You can use it as a backup or primary power source.
Gensets offer additional security in the event of a power outage or brownout. Standby gensets can help keep critical systems running in homes, businesses, and hospitals during a power outage.
Gensets also provide self-generated power to remote locations. These areas are usually rural, with mines, construction sites and campsites. Gensets allow people to explore, build and even harness the power of living deep in the forest.
Electrical gensets work the same way most cars do. They come with an engine, and an alternator.
An engine will convert fuel such as biogas, diesel, gasoline, or natural gas into a mechanical power source. Mechanical energy will effectively operate the alternating rotor. An alternator has two main components: a stator and a rotor. When the rotor rotates, a magnetic field between the stator and the rotor creates an electromagnetic induction.
There are many electrical gensets, all have the same components, are set in a base frame, and require fuel. However, there are some differences. Such as different shapes, sizes and features and use many fuel types. Below are some genset systems:
Gas-powered gensets are cheap and portable. The disadvantages of these generators are that they last only a short time and have poor fuel consumption. Gasoline can only be stored for twelve months before it goes bad. Also, gasoline is flammable, which makes it extremely dangerous.
It is the most popular type. Diesel engines are more powerful than petrol engines. Diesel is also less flammable than petrol and is readily available. With proper maintenance, diesel gensets can last quite a while.
Biodiesel, propane, and natural gas-powered low-emission gensets are on the market.
Propane: burns cleanly, has a long shelf life, but is very flammable. The installation cost is high. Propane gensets also burn three times more fuel than diesel-powered gensets.
Natural gas: Cheap and readily available, it can come from shale reservoirs, so you won't need to refill it. The drawback is that natural gas-fired gensets are not portable, and their installation costs are high.
Biodiesel: Biodiesel combines diesel and biological sources, such as vegetable oil or animal fat. This diesel emits fewer petroleum fumes and is safer for the environment, creating a much smaller fossil fuel footprint and less waste.
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Diesel Gensets.
Generator is also a powerful device that is typically a compact mobile unit that offers convenience and flexibility. They are designed for use in a variety of environments, from camping trips to small construction sites, and are typically fueled by gasoline or diesel.
This generator is usually diesel-powered or gasoline-powered and can provide temporary power. Some features of this generator:
It uses a combustion engine to provide electricity.
It can be plugged into sockets or other electrical appliances.
It can be wired into the panel.
Perfect for remote areas.
It can power refrigerators, televisions and freezers.
AC inverters work with the help of an engine that connects to an alternator and produces an alternating current. This generator also uses a rectifier to convert AC to DC power and then back to AC. These are the features of this generator:
Comes with high-tech magnets.
Electricity goes through three stages to generate power.
It is energy efficient, and the engine speed automatically adjusts to the power requirement.
It can be set to any voltage or frequency when used in AC power equipment.
It is lightweight and compact.
It can fit in an RV, boat or car.
- Portability
- Versatility
- Variety of fuel options (diesel, gasoline, natural gas, or propane)
- Superior reliability
- Advanced control features
- Soundproof enclosures for noise reduction
applications- Temporary or emergency power supply
- Outdoor events
- Remote construction sites
- Consistent, reliable power supply
- Hospitals
- Data centers
- Industrial facilities
power output rangeFew kilowatts to several megawattsCan also range from a few kilowatts to several megawattsadvantages- Easy to transport and use
- Suitable for various settings
- Lower initial cost
- High reliability
- Efficient power generation
- Advanced control and monitoring systems
disadvantages- May not be as efficient for continuous, heavy-duty power supply- Less portable due to larger size and complexity
- Higher initial cost
comparative analysisBest suited for temporary or occasional use where portability is a priority.More suitable for scenarios requiring dependable, high-capacity power for continuous operation.In the generator vs genset debate, there is no definitive answer about the better option. Both offer advantages and disadvantages that must be considered according to each situation's specific needs and circumstances.
The genset stands out for its high power supply capacity, which caters to large energy requirements. In addition, it can work continuously for extended periods, and its diesel engine gives it greater autonomy and longer functional life. On the other hand, its size and weight can make it difficult to install and transport, require adequate ventilation space, and generate noise.
As for the generator, although it does not provide as much electricity as a generator set, it is more convenient for home use and with less energy consumption. Stationary generators have substantial powers and long functional life and are generally easy to maintain and supply. However, they can be complicated to install and can be noisy.
Finally, the choice between generators and gensets will depend on the specific energy demand and usage conditions. Both options offer advantages and disadvantages, so seeking BISON professional advice and considering the features and technical specifications of the models available in the market is recommended.