Choosing the right generator for your business can be challenging. That's why we've created this concise and easy-to-understand blog to assist you. Explore the different types of generators we offer, their specific applications, and the unique features and benefits of each.
When choosing the right generator, there are generally two options: diesel or gas generators. But how do you choose the right one for you? Both options have their pros and cons, which you should consider when deciding whether to go with a gas or diesel generator. For the different type of generators and their applications, and further information on natural gas vs diesel generator efficiency, find out more below.
Which should I use? Natural gas vs diesel generator efficiency
Choose the right generator for your on-site power needs. Here’s a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of diesel generators compared to gas generators.
- Proven Reliability: Provide continuous power quickly to large sites such as hospitals, data centers, and more.
- Ease of Use: Seamless and swift installation process, following strict safety guidelines and considering your unique site.
- Seamless: Require minimal maintenance, including the simple tasks of oil changes, air filter cleaning, and more.
- Noise: Though diesel generators can produce noise, this can often be managed with proper installation and soundproofing solutions.
- Diesel Costs: Fuel costs can be higher due to the price of diesel, but this can be offset with the efficiency our diesel generators provide.
- Environmentally Friendly: Natural gas is the cleanest burning fossil fuel, reducing the release of harmful pollutants into the environment.
- Cost-Effective: Natural gas is a cheaper fuel, making gas generators more economical to operate, especially for large-scale industrial applications.
- Safer Operation: With no toxic gases produced, gas generators are safer to run and maintain.
- Longer Engine Life: Gas generators typically have a longer engine lifespan, ensuring reliable performance over time.
- Limited Availability: Gas generators are only viable in locations with access to natural gas.
- Non-Renewable Resource: Natural gas is a finite resource, making these generators dependent on a non-renewable energy source.
Choosing the Right Generator: Canopy vs. Containerized
Industrial generators can be noisy during operation, which is why they often come either containerized or with a canopy. But what’s the difference between these types, and why are they necessary? Generators are essential for many applications in noise-sensitive locations like rooftops or basements. Open-set generators, or those that are neither containerized or coupled with a canopy, can cause significant disruption to nearby residents and construction teams. So, which type of noise-reducing solution is best for you? Compare the choices below.
Canopy generators
- Noise Level: A canopy can help reduce the noise output of an industrial generator significantly.
- Weather Protection: A canopy provides protection from the potential of wind or rain causing damages to the system.
Containerized generators
- Noise Level: Offers an even greater reduction in noise output than a canopy.
- Flexibility: Can be a great solution for sites that feature roof-top space for the generator’s placement.
- Maintenance Reduction: Requires less routine checks due to the secure container keeping the generator in a safe, clean environment.
- Affordability: Often the cheaper, more flexible solution due to ease of deployment and connection.
What are the main applications for the types of generators used in industry?
Standby power
- Diesel: Typically the type of fuel needed for standby power generators.
- Adaptable: Standby power generators can automatically provide power for a vast array of time periods; whether for a few short seconds or hours.
- Emergency Response: Ideal for outages due to power outages, weather emergencies, and more.
- Other Power Source: Standby generators require power from mains in order to operate.
Prime power
- Flexibility: Prime power generators can be diesel or gas powered.
- Remote Sites: This is where most prime power generators are used due to no power supply available onsite.
- Impactful Use: Prime power generators are ideal for bringing power back to remote locations, communities, and other larger industrial needs.
- More Maintenance: Prime power generators do need more regular maintenance depending on the run time and operating conditions.
- Reliability: These generators tend to have an unlimited run time, making them a perfect solution for large applications.
Find out about the range of Aggreko diesel and gas generators available for hire.