Containerised generators

Put simply, yes. A generator service and/or UPS service can determine any existing and future power supply problems that could impact equipment performance. Planned and preventative maintenance can extend machine efficiency, assures optimal working conditions and conserves the life span of the equipment. Along with determining when replacements will be needed for a seamless transition, planned and preventative maintenance is a far cheaper solution compared to complete equipment replacement.

Electrical generators are pieces of critical power equipment that provide electricity when power from the power grid is unavailable. Interestingly enough, generators don’t actually create electricity. Instead, generators convert mechanical or chemical energy into electrical energy – by capturing the power of motion and turning it into electrical energy by forcing electrons from the external source through an electrical circuit. Once an electrical current has been established, it is directed through copper wires to power external machines, devices, or entire electrical systems.

Nearly all electronic and electrical equipment, regardless of how well-designed and built it is, will eventually break down unless it is maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Wear and tear is common with electrical equipment, but it has severe consequences for UPS systems and generators, where financial, reputation and potentially life-threatening damage comes into play. It is highly recommended that as a minimum you service your power systems annually in order to maintain its working lifecycle. Our service contracts include everything from AC maintenance, DC maintenance and generator maintenance through to analogue metering, intelligent monitoring, remote monitoring and spare parts, as well as callouts, minor fault fixes and access to our customer portal, where you can access management information reports and other key details on your power supply systems.

Without proper maintenance, generators can fall prey to failures and power outages. Generator manufacturers generally recommend that a generator should be serviced after the first year of installation and on an annual basis there on after. We also suggest carrying out regular visual inspections to keep on top of any faults within your generator that may require maintenance sooner than anticipated.

Factors that may result in more frequent maintenance include:

Exposure to extreme temperatures and weather can damage components of the generator.
Airborne contaminants such as dust and sand may infiltrate the generator, causing damage to its internal components.

Excess usage: Most diesel generators are designed to provide backup power. Should a standby generator be used for prime power, care should be taken to ensure the generator is inspected frequently and only used for as long as it is required.

Lack of usage: Similarly, if a generator is left dormant longer than expected, engine exercise should be carried out to avoid battery failure.

To comply with British Standards, the base material should be either:

Concrete at least 100mm thick.
Paving stones at least 50mm thick.
Stonework at least 50mm thick.

The overall size of the base should be larger than the oil storage tank and any integral oil storage tank bund, so that when the oil storage tank is installed, the base has a clear projection of a minimum of 300mm around all sides of the oil storage tank.

We have no doubt of your trained eye, but an OFTEC inspection provides assurance that your tank is fine, and can function properly. When exposed to the elements, steel pipes can rust, and plastic becomes brittle. Similarly, poor installation can put large amounts of pressure on the tank, leading to leaks and pollution. Having your oil tanks inspected will considerably reduce any risk, and leave you less liable should an issue occur.

As batteries go unused, with no charging schedule, their battery life will decrease. When it comes to the self-discharge characteristics of lead-acid batteries for example, it is important that they are charged after 6-10 months of battery storage. Otherwise, permanent loss of capacity will occur between 18-30 months.

A petrol generator is an alternative to diesel but typically used only for short periods. Greener alternatives include natural gas. These generators rely on underground access to natural gas. Another option is propane which is generally chosen when natural gas isn’t available.

Diesel generators

Diesel generators are those that are run on diesel, and can typically be divided into two basic parts: a diesel engine and an electrical generator. Diesel generators can be used to provide power to places that are not powered by a power grid or can be used as a backup in case of a power outage.

Natural gas generators

Natural gas generators use natural gas however, and are used in both emergency and portable generator types. They are one of the most affordable and effective fuels among non-renewable resources for power generation.

LPG generators

LPG (Liquid Petroleum Gas) generators have powerful engines that run smoothly and quietly while providing dependable power when you need it most.

There are lots of things you can do to prevent oil theft, such as:

• Check the fuel levels regularly to make sure that none has gone missing.

• Lock the tank. Most tanks can be locked at the inspection cover or a lockable filler cap can be retro fitted to existing oil tanks.

• Install automatic movement sensor security lighting around the tank.

Fuel polishing involves a number of steps, all of which help to keep your secure power solution at optimum performance.

• Regular Sampling and Testing – Fuel sampling on site to access fuel cleanliness and fuel quality.

• Fuel Treatment – Identify and deliver the most appropriate solution to bring your fuel back to optimum condition.

• Fuel Storage and Handling Procedures – Advise on handling and storage including tank cleaning, testing, repair and replacement.

• Fuel Maintenance – Fuel polishing systems are available to suit any tank in any application. All systems operate “stand alone” with basic 24/7 digital timers or advanced remote control and monitoring.

Once the generator has been installed successfully, it will require further attention before the system will operate as intended. ‘Commissioning’ refers to the tests that are carried out to ensure that the generator works as intended. Certain components need to be completed before the generator is ready for commissioning. Upon completion, each component needs to be verified to ensure the generator is fully operational to achieve optimum performance.

Knowing exactly which parts are needed is of vital importance to successfully repairing any damaged or faulty generators. First, you must identify which part needs replacing, then you need to find the corresponding part for the exact make and model of your generator. Our dedicated team use a parts identification system and an advanced ordering system to get you the right part when you need it most.

It is a common misconception that fuel can be stored in bulk for long periods without requiring any maintenance. However, this is simply not true. Like most substances, fuel can easily become contaminated when left for a considerable amount of time. Microbes can be particularly troublesome and if left untreated, the contaminated fuel could jeopardise the performance of your generator and ultimately lead to power downtime.

OFTEC (Oil Firing Technical Association) is the industry body that governs the assessment and certification of fuel storage and associated pipework.

An OFTEC Inspection concerning the fuel tank is an assessment of the tank and pipework ensuring the health and safety of individuals and the environment. By carrying out such an inspection by a qualified engineer you are minimising the risks and associated penalties.