1. Specification of the powers to be connected to the genset (simultaneously)?
Some applications have a higher start-up peak. This start-up peak can be calculated from the wattage and an indication of what is being connected. Other applications, in turn, require a higher power rating than what appears at first sight. Loading a power group with too little power can also cause problems.
2. Single phase (1~230V) or three phase (3~400V) genset?
If only appliances of 230V are connected to the generator, it is best to choose a 1~230V generator. With a 3~400V genset, the power on 230V will be reduced to 1/3 of the total number of kVA per 230V socket (e.g. 6kVA 400V gives 2kVA on 230V per socket). Exceptions to this are gensets that have an alternator with an amplified phase.
3. Estimate the number of operating hours per year?
This question also determines whether the customer best requires a gasoline or a diesel genset. The expected life of the engine, as well as the customer's expectation, play a decisive role here.
4. Gasoline or diesel (or propane/LPG)?
Both fuels have both advantages and disadvantages. Gasoline gensets are often more compact, lighter and quieter. Diesel gensets are heavier, but may be more readily available as a fuel. Options and regulations related to power unit storage may also play a role.
5. Engine with recoil start or with electric start?
A gasoline generator is easy to start manually. A diesel generator, on the other hand, is often more difficult to start manually. To make it easier for the customer, we can offer an electric start from 2.5kVA. If certain options are installed on the genset (e.g. Automatic Start/Stop System on external contact), an electric start is required in any case.
6. Noise level (open type or super-silenced type)?
The customer should have an idea of the desired noise that a genset may produce. For example, an open diesel generator in a residential area is not ideal. There are also guidelines around noise standards that must be respected.
7. 3000 rpm or 1500 rpm engine?
In our range of petrol gensets, we only work with 3000 rpm engines. In the range of diesel gensets, we have both 1500 rpm and 3000 rpm engines. A 1500 rpm genset is more expensive to buy, but its service life is almost double. They are quieter than a 3000tpm genset, but also larger in size.
8. What weight and dimensions are allowed
The dimensions and weight are especially important when customers want to install the genset somewhere. If the dimensions and weight are not decisive, the range is of course much wider.
9. Required autonomy or capacity of the fuel tank?
Is the standard tank of the genset sufficient for the customer? If it is not sufficient, we can look into modifying the tank or developing a special tank. There is also the possibility for diesel gensets to work with an external tank by means of a three-way system.
10. Working environment (temperature, altitude, humidity)?
External factors (extreme variations in altitude or temperature, high humidity...) can have a major impact on the power output of a generator. These elements must therefore be discussed in order to ensure that the power of the genset is sufficient.