The demand for diesel generators in the market is increasing at a rate of 9.4% annually. Diesel generators for commercial use have long been widespread in numerous industries. Diesel generators have served as a prevalent choice for many years, whether they are used for off-grid projects, backup power for marine vehicles like freighters and big ships, or both.

Diesel generators are widely recognized for their dependability and capacity to manage a wide range of operations. Diesel generators are highly efficient and can be used practically in any industry or commercial business. It is very helpful for both individuals and organizations, particularly in situations where there are frequent power outages and an alternative power supply is required to maintain a regular power supply.

What are Commercial Diesel Generators?

Diesel generators generate power by processing diesel fuel. These devices produce electricity by combining a diesel engine and an electric generator. Diesel generators use combustion to convert some part of the chemical energy that diesel fuel contains into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then used to rotate a moving part, which generates electricity.

The electrical power needs of the premises or equipment that will need to be powered should be considered when choosing a diesel generator. The machinery or facility’s power demand will determine the size and kind of generator required. 

A generator’s fuel consumption rate and the capacity of the fuel tank required to power the generator for a specific amount of time should also be taken into account.

See related: Generators for sale

Benefits of Diesel Generators

There are various ways in which diesel generators are useful for various kinds of businesses: 

• In the mining sector, the majority of mining sites lack a power infrastructure. As a result, they depend on diesel generators to power equipment such as lighting, cranes, conveyor systems, drill rigs, and excavators. 
• The interruption in electrical energy will result in losses for manufacturing enterprises because the majority of raw materials would decay. Diesel generators have applications in factories that manufacture products from sensitive resources. 
• The data center is essential to the business, and power failures may result in data loss. A diesel generator will ensure the data center’s continuous functioning and sensitive data processing and storage. 
• It happens that only a small number of building sites have power supplied by the electricity grid, which may cause delays in the site’s overall productivity in the absence of power supply. The diesel generator provides power backup support for any construction devices, such as machinery, communication devices, and additional electrical devices, allowing the construction project to be completed in a time frame.

Top 6 500 kW Diesel Generators

There are several diesel generators available in the market for business and industrial use. Here are the top six diesel generators with a 500kW power supply.

2023 New Cummins DFEK QSX15-G9 500kW Diesel Generator 

The features of this diesel generator include: 

• PowerCommand 2.3 digital control panel is present
• A weatherproof enclosure is provided
• Engine cooling radiator is present 
• An air cleaner is provided

2003 Cummins DFEK 500kW Diesel Generator

The features of this diesel generator include: 

• A digital control panel is present
• A walk-around sound enclosure is provided 
• It includes a jacketed water heater
• An air cleaner is present

1999 Cat 3412 500kW Diesel Generator Set

The features of this diesel generator include: 

• CAT EMCP 2+ digital control panel is present 
• The radiator provided is engine-driven
• A jacketed water heater is available
• An electric start feature is provided

Related product: 1996 Cat 3412 600kw Diesel Generator Set

2001 Cat 3412 500kW Diesel Generator Set

The features of this diesel generator include: 

• CAT EMCP 2+ digital control panel
• A weatherproof enclosure is provided
• Electric start is available
• Heavy-duty air cleaner is provided

2004 Cummins DFEK 500 kW Diesel Generator

The features of this diesel generator include: 

• Power command digital control panel
• Jacketed water heater
• Alternative battery charging is available
• An air cleaner is present

2021 Cat XQ570 500 kW Diesel Generator Set

The features of this diesel generator include: 

• EMCP 4.4 control panel
• 25 gallon DEF tank with on-tank fill and integrated level sensor, heating elements, and pump
• Sound levels are less than equal to 72 dB(A)
• An air cleaner is present

Get the Best Deals on Diesel Generators with Midwest

A diesel generator is essential for maintaining a constant power supply. They are widely recognized for their reliability, effectiveness, and capacity to supply reliable power in a range of settings, including manufacturing operations and vital facilities backup power in emergencies.

Midwest Generator offers the best quality top-rated power generator sets, so you can purchase an effective generator at a price that fits your budget. Our collection of generators goes through extensive checks, maintenance, and verifications to guarantee that you will be purchasing a dependable, high-quality generator. 

Common Questions About Diesel Generators

Q1. Why do people use diesel generators?

They can generate huge amounts of power with great efficiency. They require less maintenance, are fuel efficient, and long-lasting. You may discover that there are various advantages to using a diesel generator in your company’s operations.

Q2. What is the life of a diesel generator?

In general, a diesel generator’s lifespan is estimated to be between 10,000 and 20,000 run hours

Q3. Which generator lasts the longest?

There isn’t an all-encompassing answer. The key elements influencing a diesel generator’s life expectancy are fuel type, fuel availability, storage capacity, and electricity use. Other elements also come into effect based on the kind of fuel.

The market size of the industrial generator was estimated around USD 18.3 billion in 2022, and is expected to rise by 7.3% till 2032. Investing in a top-notch quality industrial generator is a crucial decision for each business. 

With the rise in dependency on electricity, to operate multiple machines, you must have backup power to ensure the smooth continuity of your business during unexpected electricity outages. 

However, with the number of industrial generators available in the market, selecting the right one can be a confusing and challenging task.

In this industrial generator purchasing guide, you will learn how to select a generator by considering some of the most crucial factors as per the needs of your business. From maintenance and portability to fuel type and power capacity, you will be informed of each key point that you must consider while choosing the best industrial generator for your business needs and expectations.

Power Requirements for Your Business

Before you purchase an industrial generator, acknowledge your business needs in regard to power requirements. Study in-depth about the technical details such as load fluctuations, future expansion plans, peak power demand, and other power needs that you might require for a particular project or job site. Moreover, also consider the minimum desired running time of your generator.

When you are aware of all this information, it’ll help you search for the generator that suits your requirements the best. For a quick estimate or unit conversion, you can use a power calculator and acknowledge the specifications you are searching for.

You must be familiar with the basic power ratings for equipment. The industry standards set these classifications that are categorized into four major rating categories:

• Prime Rated Power  (PRP)
• Limited Time Prime (LTP)
• Continuous Operating Power (COP)
• Emergency Standby Rating (ESP)

Familiarize yourself with these four categories, as it will help you to understand the best generator that can meet your requirements.

It is important to perform a detailed assessment of the power usage required for your business to learn the exact power requirements. You can contact a certified electrician in order to perform this assessment. The electrician considers the multiple equipment and the machinery that require power during an electricity outage, along with their power ratings. They even consider any spikes or power surges that might occur during operation or start. Hence, it is important that you plan for the expansion and future growth of your business as it ensures that you choose the right generator for your business.

Types of Industrial Generators

Industrial generators are often highly priced. Hence, you will have to make a good investment in order to get a return on investment. Fortunately, industrial generators come with high cost, but also offer cost flexibility due to better credit options and bulk purchases.

Diesel Generators

Diesel generators are costly. In maximum cases, the price is acceptable because of the power capabilities and the large size that comes along. Often, diesel generators are implemented to run devices such as freezers, computers, security systems, and HVAC services. These generators can even function entire hospitals, maintain immense freezers, and save infrastructure power.

Natural Gas Generators

A second-hand or brand-new natural gas generator consumes stored natural gas for creating electricity. Engine-powered natural gas generators can be implemented for your businesses. These generators do not burn liquid as compared to the other generators. Hence, to reduce the overall cost, they combust gaseous fuel.

Key Points to Choose the Best Commercial Generator

With a variety of industrial generators existing in the market, it’s important to compare and research the multiple options in order to get the best one for your business requirements. Apart from the details discussed above, some of the key points you must  consider to make an informed decision are:

Research Generator Providers

Look for generator providers with a good reputation in the market and a good record of providing reliable and high-quality generators with helpful customer service. Go through the testimonials and customer reviews to acknowledge their reliability.

Model and Manufacturing

Whenever shopping for a generator, look for the multiple models available and research the manufacturer. Each manufacturer has different qualities and has their own reputation. Hence, brand consideration is a key point when purchasing an industrial generator. Also, keep in mind that if you are paying a higher amount for your generator, it must return good quality and lesser maintenance costs in return.

Portability

You must consider the portability of a generator based on your business’s mobility requirements. Some businesses may prefer stationary generators permanently installed in a designated location. Portable generators often come with built-in fuel tanks and features like voltage selector switches or distribution panels for convenience. 

Stationary generators are typically larger, necessitate professional installation, and require connection to the building’s electrical system. Compliance with city, county, or state codes, along with certifications like UL2200 Listing or CSA certification, may be necessary for stationary generators. Businesses with varying locations, like construction sites or remote areas, may benefit from easily transportable generators mounted on trailers.

Support and Warranty

Go for generators that come with warranty and customer support. A good warranty ensures that you have made the right investment. Moreover, ask for the availability of service providers and spare parts of the generator model and brand you are purchasing for Timely maintenance and long life.

Brand-New or Second Hand

Deciding between purchasing a new or used generator is a significant choice. Opting for a brand new generator is worth considering, especially for diesel generators known for their extended operation time before requiring repairs or replacements, often around 10,000 hours. However, choosing a used generator doesn’t necessarily mean sacrificing quality.

 It’s crucial to thoroughly research the age and usage of a used generator before making a purchase. Inquire about the generator’s year of manufacture when dealing with a seller, and look for a built-in hour meter to gain insights into the machine’s usage history. This diligence ensures a well-informed decision and potential cost savings without compromising reliability.

Safety Switches

Certain generators come equipped with automatic shut-off switches, a critical safety feature for emergency backup generators. The absence of a safety switch in a backup generator could lead to circuit blowouts upon activation. On the other hand, transfer switches play a crucial role in monitoring voltages in a circuit. In the event of an interruption, a transfer switch can promptly initiate a generator’s power supply before efficiently shutting it down, ensuring smooth functioning and safeguarding against major issues.

Features and Specifications

Examine the features and specifications of various industrial generator models to align them with your business needs. Evaluate factors like run time, fuel tank capacity, noise levels, emissions, and safety features. For instance, if your business operates in a noise-sensitive area, prioritize generators with low noise levels to adhere to local regulations and ensure compliance.

LCD and LED Displays

Many generators come equipped with LCD and LED displays, status bars, and user-friendly menus. Illuminated displays and notification lights enhance safety, ease of use, and predictability during nighttime operations. In daylight hours, LCD and LED displays provide clear visibility for monitoring fuel levels and oil notifications.

Repair History

Prior to making a purchase, thoroughly investigate the repair history of an industrial generator. Request maintenance records, particularly for generators with extensive prior use, to assess their capacity to meet your requirements. Consider hiring a specialist for a comprehensive inspection to determine the remaining service life of the generator. Evaluate the unit’s overall maintenance quality and the extent of wear and tear it has incurred over time.

Related Product: 1996 Cat 3412 600kw Diesel Generator Set

Maintenance

Ensure to prioritize proper maintenance for reliable and efficient industrial generator operation. Regular maintenance is essential to detect and address issues before they escalate, promoting optimal performance and extending the generator’s lifespan. When selecting an industrial generator, factor in maintenance requirements and associated costs for the specific model. Diesel generators often need regular maintenance tasks like oil changes, periodic testing, and fuel system cleaning to ensure smooth operation.

Actionable Adverbs

When deciding between diesel and gas generators, it’s crucial to factor in your business’s specific needs, such as necessary portability, power capacity, maintenance, and budget constraints. Seeking advice from a reliable generator provider can assist you in making a choice tailored to your unique requirements.

Go for MidWest Generators for your industrial generator needs for a crucial reason – being the best supplier with readily available, in-stock industrial generators. This ensures swift turnaround times, removing the need for months-long waiting periods for generator delivery. Simply select the suitable generator to fulfill your requirements, and it will be delivered from our readily available inventory. 

At MidWest, our reputation is built on excellence in power system purchasing and rebuilding. If you require assistance regarding the purchase of an industrial diesel generator, our experts are ready to guide you through the process.

Common Questions about Industrial Generators

Q1. How to understand the right size of an industrial generator?

You must calculate the total power requirements to determine the right size of a generator. Note down all the machines and equipment that require power through your generator, monitor the power consumption of each item, and add them all. Select a generator that is built to handle the total power load along with additional capacity for future needs.

Q2. Which fuel is used in industrial generators?

Industrial generators can run on gasoline, diesel, propane, or natural gas. The fuel you choose depends on the requirements of your business and the availability of the fuel. Diesel generators are well known for their efficiency and durability. However, generators, running or natural gas, are pocket-friendly and environment-friendly.

Q3. Should I consider the running time of the generator while purchasing one?

A generator that runs longer needs fewer refills. Hence, select a generator that is more cost-effective in the long run because the generator needs less refueling.

Q4. What do you understand about the power factor in industrial generators?

Power factor measures how a generator transforms electrical power into useful work. It is the ratio between the apparent power (kVA) and the real power (kW) that the generator can deliver. When the power factor is high, the generator is more efficient.

Q5. What is the difference between prime, standby, and continuous ratings?

Standby Rating represents the maximum power output of a generator for backup in emergency situations with certain operating hours each year. The prime rating shows the power output of a generator for long periods, usually around 70–80% of the standby rating. The continuous rating indicates the power output of a generator for continuous operations without any time limitation.

Q6. What is better – a new or used generator?

Whether you purchase a used or a new generator entirely depends on your needs. Both of them have different pros and cons, and you should decide whichever aligns with your needs. While new generators offer warranty, the latest technology, and other updated features, used generators can be customized according to your needs and are cost-efficient.

Q7. What are the key factors to consider before purchasing an industrial generator?

The key factors to be kept in mind are your requirements, brand, fuel options, power, generation, warranty, emission levels, voltage, mounting pads, automatic or manual, enclosures, and safety aspects. These major specifications are crucial to consider when choosing your industrial generator.

Q8. Is purchasing an automatic-running generator a good option?

Yes, the newly built generators offer an automatic start option and smoothly deliver power to the industrial units, making your operations smoother from power grid electricity to alternate power.