In North America, one of the most popular generators on the market is Caterpillars XQ2000-DGB. As one of the leading heavy machinery producers in the world, this diesel powered generator from Caterpillar has lived up to the brands sterling reputation. The XQ2000 is a large portable generator built on a trailer. The entire unit spans 40 feet long and stands 14 feet high as an enclosed unit. Inside the trailer sits an impressive 4-stroke diesel engine with a 15:1 compression ratio. While the XQ-2000 is fitted with a diesel engine, it also maintains the capacity to use other fuel types, such as gas, at a slightly lesser fuel efficiency.
Along with the many different types of generators are their many different sizes. Some portable generators are roughly the size of a lunch cooler and can weigh as little
as 20lbs. On the flip side, many industrial and commercial stationary generators easily dwarf their portable counterparts. The biggest of the generator family (apart from the
hydro-powered generators of dams) is the Caterpillar C175-20. This machine boasts 4,000 horsepower when running at a max RPM of 1,8000, has four parallel turbochargers, a V-20 engine layout, and pushes an incredible 16.474 lb-ft torque. The C175-20 uses an air-to-water intercooler air treatment combined with its air intake rate of 11,946 cubic feet of air per minute. Not surprisingly, such a powerful machine engine requires a great deal of fuel to maintain such high output. In order to keep Caterpillars biggest generator running it burns 274.4 gallons of diesel per
hour. However, this budget-breaking gas tank doesn't burn its fuel in vain. The C175-20 supplies an astounding 4 megawatts (4 million watts) of standby power. To put that output into perspective, this monster Caterpillar is currently providing power for the entire Caribbean island of Mustique. Once put in place the C175-20 is rarely moved due to its weight and massive frame. This generator stands at 8 feet 4 inches high and stretches nearly 22 feet long with width that nearly matches its height. Given its dimensions, items no shock that the C175-20s weight makes it almost completely immovable. This giant generator, complete with a solid cast iron engine block, weighs an anchoring 25 tons.
While generators all use the same functionality for generating energy and electricity, they typically vary in 2 different ways: fuel verses energy and mobile verses immobile. As the name implies, diesel generators use compression-engines to provide power. Many diesel generators are also fitted with an alternator as a part of the generation process. Diesel generators are most commonly used in situations when there is no access to any power. Their ability to run off of diesel means that they can run as long as there is the fuel available to do so. Similarly, gas generators use gas to power their engines. Unlike diesel engines, which use a compression that ignites the fuel, gas engines combine fuel and air in the carburetor before the fuel is compressed. This process slows down the efficiency of the gas engines when compared to diesel. A third type of energy source for generators is petrol. Unlike gas and diesel engines, petrol generators use a spark ignition to start and run at a higher temperature than their counterparts. Combined with different fuel options, generators
also vary in their mobility. Different sized generators are able to be wheeled by hand while others are rigged with hitches or sit on trailers to be pulled by other vehicles. Conversely, many of the larger generators are stationary to one location. These non-mobile engines are typically used to provide backup power to larger buildings in case of power outages. They are particularly common with businesses like grocery stores that need to keep
their inventory cool in case the power grid goes down.
With such a vast amount of different generator options and combinations available it can be difficult to find a way to learn and stay on top of all the advancements happening. To remedy this, events such as the POWER-GEN International conference gather every year to focus on the present and future of the power generation industry. The next POWER-GEN event will take place in Orlando, Florida from December 4th-6th in 2018 at the Orange County Convention Center. The event will feature displays of the newest advances in generator technology with over 1,400 exhibitors, educational opportunities, and the opportunity to network with thousands of power professionals.
Whether you are looking for a small generator for home use or a large one for power backup on the commercial level, finding the perfect fit for you needs is easy with sources like Mascus USA. Mascus is an online used heavy equipment distributor that connects buyers with the generator that meets their specific needs. Similarly, if you are looking to sell your used generator, Mascus will help you get you machine in front of thousands of potential buyers. You can do this by following the simple 3-step sign up here.