The Role Of Diesel Generators In Mining Industry

The mining industry is a vital part of society that extracts valuable resources from the earth, that we then use to power other important industries that keep our systems and operations running smoothly. The driving force behind most mining processes are diesel generators, which produce the power that is needed to fuel large mining equipment and machinery that extracts the valuable materials that we so heavily rely on. This article will walk you through the importance of generators in the mining industry and how to go about finding the best generator for your own mining project. 

Why are diesel generators used in mining?

The mining industry relies on heavy-duty machinery to extract valuable resources from the ground. As the earth’s crust is so thick, these resources cannot be extracted with human power alone. Diesel generators are taken to mining sites and used to break into the earth and extract valuables from under the crust.

Diesel generators are the preferred source of power- over gasoline or natural gas generators because they can be easily moved from place to place and produce high-quality power. They are also able to control their power output, which is ideal for mining sites that will have varying power demands throughout each working day. Using diesel generators in mining is the most cost-effective way to power heavy-duty machinery and equipment. 

How do they help in Mining?

Without the use of generators, the mining industry would not be able to extract the valuable resources that they do with the help of diesel power. It provides around 70% of the power that is needed for mining operations- if this power was not available, the mining industry as we know it would disappear! 

Diesel generators are a safer option to be used in mining, compared to other fuel types. This is because they have a lower volatility rate but can still provide the amount of power that is needed to move such heavy machinery. 

Diesel generators are also highly reliable. Most generators can run for hours, and can easily be refueled when their tanks do run out. This means that they can power mining projects for as long as they need to be running. If the mining industry did experience a power-outage, many valuable resources could be potentially lost. The use of diesel generators mitigates the risk of this happening.

Using them in mining means that new generators can be provided to the site if more power is needed. While diesel generators may be large, they can easily be moved with a truck to wherever more power is needed. Once at the site, these generators are also largely easy to use, which means that you will not need to waste precious time trying to start up your new generator. 

How important are diesel generators in the mining industry?

On many mining sites, they run the entirety of the equipment that is needed to proceed with the mining operation. Therefore, diesel generators are an essential component of any mining site. Due to the sheer size of much mining equipment, it cannot rely on the grid alone. Diesel generators provide a steady stream of power that can keep mining projects running for as long as they need. 

What are the main uses of diesel generators in the mining industry? 

In the mining industry, they are mainly used for driving heavy-duty vehicles and machines. Although, many are able to power the entirety of the mining equipment that is on a site. Many mining sites will also invest in a backup diesel generator, which will be on standby if the main generator (or other sources of power) experiences a power outage. 

What are the disadvantages of using diesel generators in the mining industry?

The running time of a diesel generator largely depends on the fuel tank size. This means that, once the fuel tank is empty, the generator will no longer be able to provide power to your site. This can be a problem if you are not prepared for the fuel to run out; however, if you have a backup tank onsite, the problem can quickly be solved. 

Diesel generators are also fairly pricey and emit a lot of emissions into the air. Some may argue that this makes them inefficient but most alternative options present these same disadvantages. You should expect to pay a high price for a good quality generator- the expenses will pay off in the long run!

What to look for in a good mining generator?

When choosing a new mining diesel generator, it is important to make a few considerations that will help you to find the best option for you. Good mining generators must be portable, weatherproof, safe to use, and reliable. 

Generators play a huge role in the mining industry however, they may be presented with a number of external threats at the mining site. Poor weather conditions are a frequent feature of any mining project and it is important that your generator will not be affected by these.It is also vital that you are able to easily transport your new generator to the site that it is required. Many quarries will sit at the bottom of steep valleys or along narrow roads- ensure that your generator can be moved to these restricted locations. 

If you need help finding the best diesel generator for your mining project, our expert team may be able to help! At Swift Equipment, we stock a variety of high-quality used generators that can meet all of your industry needs. Get in contact with us today to find out more.