Generator sizing & technical basics

Everything that decides the number on the nameplate: the load list, the duty rating, altitude and heat derating, fuel burn, and the enclosure. Work through these before you request a quotation, so the number you send is the number you need.

1. 01How to Size a Generator Set: A Step-by-Step Method for 20–2000 kWSize a generator from the load up: total the running kW, add the largest motor start, pick the duty rating, apply site derating, then choose the enclosure. A repeatable method for 20–2000 kW sets.
2. 02kVA vs kW: Why a Generator Is Rated in Both and What Each MeanskVA is apparent power, kW is real power, and power factor bridges them. Understand both ratings so the set you buy actually covers the load you measured.
3. 03ISO 8528 Generator Ratings Explained: ESP, PRP and COP in Plain TermsISO 8528 defines three generator ratings, ESP, PRP and COP. Understand what each allows so you buy the duty the site needs and pay the right price.
4. 04Generator Derating: How Altitude and Temperature Cut Your Available PowerHot, thin air makes a generator produce less than its nameplate. Use the planning factors for altitude and ambient temperature to size the set you actually need.
5. 05Sizing for 60 Hz sites: why derating is not optional above 40 °CAmbient temperature and altitude quietly take power away from your set. A worked example from a 45 °C site in West Africa.
6. 06Generator Fuel Consumption: How to Estimate Diesel Burn per HourEstimate diesel use from load and specific fuel consumption. A planning method for tank sizing and running cost, with the caveats that matter at part load.
7. 07Open, Silent, Mobile or Containerised: Choosing the Build FormOpen frames are cheapest and need a shelter. Silent canopies cut noise for towns and occupied sites. Mobile sets move with the job. Containerised builds pack power, fuel and control into one weatherproof box for remote duty.
8. 08Silent Generator dB(A): What the Noise Figure Really MeansA 75 dB(A) rating means little until you know the distance and the reference. Noise falls about 6 dB(A) per doubling of distance, so the same set reads 75 dB(A) at 7 m and near 87 dB(A) at 1 m.
9. 09Diesel vs Gas Generator Sets: Running Cost, Price and Which WinsDiesel wins on reliability and fuel availability in almost every market. Gas wins on running cost where gas is cheap or free. The right choice is a fuel price times running hours calculation, not a brand preference.
10. 10Dual-Fuel Generators: How Gas-Diesel Blending Cuts Fuel CostA dual-fuel set blends diesel with gas in the combustion chamber, substituting up to about 70% of the diesel with gas. Where gas is already on site, that cuts running cost without giving up diesel reliability.
11. 11New vs Used Generator Sets: Where the Real Cost Difference SitsA used set costs less up front, but the saving disappears if the engine, alternator or controller is tired. Buy used only with a load-bank report, a hours and service history, and a clear spares position.