Running light loads on generator
Running light loads on generator
(OP)
Hello,
I had a query regarding running light loads on generator. If load on generator is over 25% of rated generator output, would it be recommended to run light load on generator without encountering major loss in efficiency or durability? Is it possible to adjust the output of the generator so that it could be configured to run light loads?
Thank you.
Regards,
Tapan.
I had a query regarding running light loads on generator. If load on generator is over 25% of rated generator output, would it be recommended to run light load on generator without encountering major loss in efficiency or durability? Is it possible to adjust the output of the generator so that it could be configured to run light loads?
Thank you.
Regards,
Tapan.





RE: Running light loads on generator
RE: Running light loads on generator
However a diesel engine does not like to run lightly loaded. The fuel economy is poor and at light loads the piston rings do not seal properly. The possible poor piston ring seal may lead to oil pumping, also called "Wet Stacking" or "Slobbering". Light loading may also lead to cylinder glazing which may also lead to oil pumping.
The next step in the progression is when the load, and the exhaust temperature and gas velocity increase. This may result in dirty oil being blown out of the exhaust and in extreme instances, flaming, dirty oil being blown out of the exhaust system.
That said, life is hard for an engine driving a generator. There are installations where a generator must be sized to start a large hard starting motor and when the motor is running the generator load drops down to a low percentage of the set rating. I have encountered that situation. The solution is to seat in the rings by loading the set with a load bank for several days. When the set is in service it is watched for any sign of oil pumping or oil consumption. If oil pumping is caught early it may be corrected by bringing the load bank back for a few days.
Another possible result of oil pumping is complete loss of lubricating oil.
Run at light load if you must but be aware of possible issues.
Bill
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"Why not the best?"
Jimmy Carter
RE: Running light loads on generator
Thank you.
RE: Running light loads on generator
Mike L.