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Preparations Before Starting a Diesel Generator Set

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Release time:

2019-10-17

  Diesel generator sets are excellent backup power solutions and serve as essential standby and emergency equipment to alleviate electricity shortages. To ensure that the unit can start up smoothly when in use, users must complete all necessary preparatory work before starting the generator set.

  First, before starting the diesel generator set, you must check whether all parts of the diesel engine are in normal condition and whether all attachments are securely connected. For example, all joints on the intake pipes and cooling water pipes must be tightly fastened. Next, verify that the engine’s coolant level is sufficient; if it’s low, top it up accordingly. Also, check whether the oil level in the generator set’s oil pan is within the specified range. Additionally, ensure that there is enough diesel fuel in the fuel tank, that all connections in the starting system are properly secured, and that the battery has sufficient charge.

  After completing a series of inspections, there’s one more step to take: use the manual pump on the fuel transfer pump to pressurize the fuel system with fuel, and then loosen the bleed screw on the fuel injection pump (or loosen the bleed plug on the fuel filter) to bleed air out of the fuel system—continue doing so until the fuel flowing steadily from the bleed point is completely free of bubbles. Once the bleed screw or bleed plug has been tightened, continue pumping fuel manually until fuel starts flowing back through the return line; then securely tighten the manual pump.

  For new or overhauled engines, or diesel generator sets that have been parked unused for more than 5 days, the crankshaft should be turned 3 to 5 revolutions before starting. For turbocharged engines, first remove the oil supply pipe, add 50–60 milliliters of clean lubricating oil to ensure the bearings are properly lubricated, and then reattach the oil supply pipe.

  It is important to note that for diesel generator sets that are normally parked and used only in emergencies, to ensure timely startup, they should be started and run briefly every 3 to 5 days during the parking period. During this time, the water and oil temperatures should be raised to above 60℃, and the indoor temperature of the machine room must be kept no lower than 10℃.