Types of Diesel Engines and Its Applications

For the uninitiated, the diesel engine is essentially an internal combustion engine and a compression ignition engine at that. Simply put, in a diesel engine, the fuel is suddenly exposed to a high temperature which leads to the ignition of the engine. The fuel simultaneously comes in contact with compressed atmospheric air containing oxygen, as against a separate source of ignition energy seen in gasoline engines. This entire process is called Diesel Cycle, after its inventor – Rudolf Diesel. 

Types of Diesel Engines

From an industrial point of view, diesel engines can be classified as Two-Stroke Diesel Engines and Four-Stroke Diesel Engines. While a vast majority of diesel engines rely on the four-stroke cycle, larger engines often function on the two-stroke cycle.  

As far as generators are concerned, single-phase diesel generators are sufficient for powering homes. However, when it comes to the power backup for industrial and commercial applications three-phase generators are needed. 

In the present-day scenario, diesel engine generators enjoy exceptional popularity due to properties such as low operating costs, great longevity, relatively quiet operation, and little to no maintenance costs. 

Applications of Diesel Engine Generators 

Diesel engine generators are being widely used for commercial as well as industrial applications, the two-stroke diesel engine is commonly used in large power output applications, most prominent of which include – 

Mining

Did you know? Over 70% of the power needed for mining operations is provided by diesel generators.

Thanks to their heavy output capacity these generators can easily power heavy-duty equipment including but not limited to excavating machinery, drillers, conveyor belts, and cranes. Their portability and ease of adaptability to extreme conditions make these generators ideal for use in remote mining sites. Moreover, due to its low volatility, diesel proves to be a safer alternative. 

Healthcare

Power failure or even a short interruption in the power supply can easily prove to be hazardous and even fatal to critical patients admitted to medical facilities. Hence, it is more than essential for hospitals and other healthcare facilities to have adequate power backup. Thankfully, diesel engine generators, by their very design, are ideal for power backup and can provide a seamless power supply, provided the diesel fuel level is maintained. That being taken care of hospitals can rely on complete backup on these generators for as long as 48 hours, which is sufficient to arrange for shifting of patients if the outage is expected to prolong even further. 

Commercial and Manufacturing Industries 

While every enterprise is out there to maximize its revenues, this can prove to be difficult in the face of regular load shedding or extended outages. This makes it truly essential for commercial setups and manufacturing plants to have a reliable power backup, and what better than diesel engine generators to provide just that. Not only do these generators ensure consistent power supply to the important departments and manufacturing lines, but also help protect the business from any uncalled-for losses. When used during nighttime, these generators can also ensure added security of the premises. 

Oil & Gas Industry

The oil and gas industry is time-intensive, and any loss of operating time even if just a few minutes can lead to extensive losses, which is precisely why this industry simply doesn’t function without diesel-powered generators. Right from drilling to pumping, from loading to transporting, these generators facilitate all functions alike. Moreover, they prove to be immensely useful in the case of oil and gas exploration in remote locations and often extreme conditions. 

Construction

More than just a few construction sites are often devoid of regular power supply, which makes them intrinsically dependent on diesel generators. Diesel generators are fully capable of powering lighting, communication systems as well as construction equipment in addition to air conditioning. In case of any accidents or mishaps on the site, diesel generators prove to be a reliable source of much-needed electrical power. 

 Telecommunications And Data Centers

In the 21st century, every industry is exceedingly dependent on computers and data centers for their day-to-day functioning, with most industries now storing their data on manual as well as cloud servers. To ensure that these companies have seamless access to their data, it is extremely important for them to have reliable power backups else they might risk losing business and eventually money. Moreover, power outages make these servers easily accessible to hackers, which can lead to data theft and other subsequent issues. Therefore, having diesel engine generators for backup is more than just important for this segment.

Now that you know all about diesel generators, their types, and their applications, don’t wait any longer before purchasing a new or used diesel engine generator to power your business. For all you know, this can prove to be one of the most promising investments towards the productivity and profitability of your venture! And if and when you do decide on making this purchase, don’t forget to get in touch with us at Swift Equipment – the most reliable diesel generator provider in Houston, Texas. 

Frequently Asked Questions by Business Owners

What are the power capacities of Small, Medium, and Large Diesel Engines?

Based on their power output, diesel engines are categorized as Small, Medium, and Large. Small diesel engines are known to have a power output value of less than 252 horsepower, medium diesel engines have power capacities ranging from or 252 to 1,006 horsepower, and large diesel engines have power ratings in excess of 1,006 horsepower. 

Which type of diesel engines are used for power generation?

More often than not, large diesel engines with output capacities exceeding 1,006 horsepower are used for power generation. These engines are primarily direct-injection, turbocharged, and aftercooled systems, and have the ability to operate at as low as 500 revolutions per minute to ensure reliability as well as durability in critical conditions. 

Large diesel engines are also used in other applications including but not limited to marine, locomotive, and mechanical drive applications.

What is the difference between 2 strokes and 4 stroke diesel engine?

A 4 stroke engine completes 2 rotations of the crankshaft after finishing one cycle, whereas a 2 stroke engine completes only 1. With a 4 stroke engine, power is produced once every 4 strokes of the piston however in a 2 stroke engine, the power is produced every 2 strokes.