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Diesel Generator¤

Overview¤

Diesel Generators are power generation units that convert the chemical energy of diesel fuel into electrical energy. These generators are widely used for their durability, reliability, and ability to provide power in a variety of settings, including remote locations, backup power for critical infrastructure, and as primary power sources in off-grid applications.

Process Description¤

  1. Diesel Supply: Diesel fuel is supplied to the generator from a fuel tank.
  2. Air Intake and Compression: Ambient air is drawn into the generator and compressed in the engine cylinders.
  3. Fuel Injection and Combustion: Diesel fuel is injected into the combustion chamber at high pressure, mixing with the compressed air and igniting due to the high temperature from compression, producing high-temperature, high-pressure gases.
  4. Mechanical Energy Conversion: The expanding gases drive the engine's pistons, converting thermal energy into mechanical energy.
  5. Electrical Energy Generation: The mechanical energy is used to drive an alternator, which generates electricity.
  6. Exhaust: The combustion gases are expelled through an exhaust system, often with emissions control technologies to reduce pollutants.

Benefits¤

  • Reliability: Diesel generators are known for their robust and reliable operation, suitable for continuous use.
  • High Energy Density: Diesel fuel has a high energy density, providing a significant amount of power for a given volume of fuel.
  • Durability: Diesel engines are durable and can operate under heavy loads for extended periods.
  • Fuel Availability: Diesel fuel is widely available and can be stored for long periods without significant degradation.

Applications¤

  • Backup Power: Provides emergency power for critical infrastructure such as hospitals, data centers, and communication networks.
  • Primary Power: Used as the main power source in remote or off-grid locations, such as construction sites, mining operations, and rural areas.
  • Portable Power: Suitable for portable power units used in events, outdoor activities, and mobile operations.
  • Industrial Power: Supplies electricity for industrial processes and machinery.

Efficiency¤

  • Typical Efficiency: Diesel generators typically achieve efficiencies between 35% and 45%, depending on the design and operating conditions.

Challenges¤

  • Emissions: Diesel combustion produces significant levels of CO2, NOx, particulate matter, and other pollutants, requiring emissions control measures.
  • Fuel Costs: Diesel fuel can be more expensive compared to natural gas, impacting operational costs.
  • Noise and Vibration: Diesel generators can be noisy and produce vibrations, necessitating soundproofing and vibration dampening in some applications.
  • Maintenance: Requires regular maintenance to ensure reliable operation and longevity, including fuel system, engine, and emissions control components.

Future Outlook¤

Advancements in diesel generator technology, such as improved engine designs, emissions control technologies, and hybrid systems integrating renewable energy sources, are expected to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Despite the push towards cleaner energy solutions, diesel generators will continue

ES Model Parameters¤

In EnergyScope this technology is only used off-grid.

All the parameters concerning the Diesel Generator are listed in the table below.

entry_key value unit sets source_reference
DIESEL (layer) -2.778 - CAN Slaymaker, Amara, (2021): "Demographic and Geographic Region Definition in Energy System Modelling. A Case Study of Canada's Path to Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2050 and the Role of Hydrogen"
ELECTRICITY_OG (layer) 1 - CAN Slaymaker, Amara, (2021): "Demographic and Geographic Region Definition in Energy System Modelling. A Case Study of Canada's Path to Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2050 and the Role of Hydrogen"
c_inv 314 MCHF/GW CAN Slaymaker, Amara, (2021): "Demographic and Geographic Region Definition in Energy System Modelling. A Case Study of Canada's Path to Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2050 and the Role of Hydrogen"
c_maint 376 MCHF/GW/y CAN Slaymaker, Amara, (2021): "Demographic and Geographic Region Definition in Energy System Modelling. A Case Study of Canada's Path to Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2050 and the Role of Hydrogen"
c_p 0.28 - CAN Slaymaker, Amara, (2021): "Demographic and Geographic Region Definition in Energy System Modelling. A Case Study of Canada's Path to Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2050 and the Role of Hydrogen"
lifetime 25 y CAN Slaymaker, Amara, (2021): "Demographic and Geographic Region Definition in Energy System Modelling. A Case Study of Canada's Path to Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2050 and the Role of Hydrogen"
ref_size 10 kW CAN Slaymaker, Amara, (2021): "Demographic and Geographic Region Definition in Energy System Modelling. A Case Study of Canada's Path to Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2050 and the Role of Hydrogen"
trl 9 - CAN Slaymaker, Amara, (2021): "Demographic and Geographic Region Definition in Energy System Modelling. A Case Study of Canada's Path to Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2050 and the Role of Hydrogen"

References¤

Data Sources
Slaymaker, Amara. (2021). "Demographic and Geographic Region Definition in Energy System Modelling. A Case Study of Canada's Path to Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2050 and the Role of Hydrogen"