It is simple to operate such a generator because it can switch the fuel requirements from a knob or switch. In this type of generator, the two fuels might or might not get mixed, and the engine has to switch fuel types, depending on the product’s specifications. It is identical to a bi-fuel generator because it has the option of interchanging the fuels while giving the same performance. It gives the same performance on the combustion of 2 different fuels after mixing them and manages their residues. Not suitable for low-power requirementsĪ generator with the option of using two fuels whenever one fuel is not available, it can work on the other fuel supported by it.
DUAL FUEL GENERATOR PORTABLE
What is a Portable Dual Fuel Generator?.Depending on the age of the generator and its usage, this cost may not be recognized over time in fuel savings. It can also be costly to convert a diesel generator to run off of multiple fuels. This can affect the performance of a dual fuel generator.
Natural gas’ makeup can differ greatly based on your geographic location and the fuel’s source. Dual fuel generators have disadvantages too. Natural gas is also currently less expensive than diesel.īecause natural gas burns cleaner than diesel, less routine maintenance of oil and other generator components is required. In the case of an emergency situation, this natural gas will likely still be available, helping diesel stores (which can be difficult to replace during emergencies) last longer. This supply does not need to be stored on site, which eliminates the maintenance and space associated with large diesel fuel tanks. Most industrial businesses already have a natural gas supply available nearby.
Other potential benefits of a dual fuel generator include the availability of natural gas. There are other benefits of a dual fuel generator. This could qualify your facility for cost-saving peak shaving and other helpful non-emergency use situations. Without investing in a new genset, you could meet guidelines for non-emergency use. Natural gas burns cleaner than diesel, so a mixed fuel can offer lower emissions than a generator powered solely by diesel. A dual fuel generator can be more eco-friendly. The most common example of a bi-fuel engine is a hybrid car, which can run on either electricity or gasoline. Switching between fuels is usually done automatically based on which fuel type will be most efficient at that point in time. In comparison, bi-fuel engines use two different types of fuel interchangeably. In most cases, a dual fuel generator will need to start on diesel alone, as it has a much lower ignition temperature than natural gas. These fuels can be mixed in different proportions or used alone, depending on the engine and the situation. Dual fuel and bi-fuel are not the same.ĭual fuel generators use two different types of fuel (most often diesel and natural gas) at the same time.
Most notably was Rudolph Diesel, who combined his namesake fuel with natural gas for more efficient operation. As early as the 1890s, engineers were experimenting with mixed fuels. Dual fuel technology has a long history.īefore grid power was a reliable reality, engines using more than one fuel were popular power generation solutions. Before investing in a dual fuel generator, or converting your current diesel genset to operate on dual fuels, you should learn more about the technology. Dual fuel generators are gaining popularity due to their potential flexibility and reliability.