In the absence of centralized power supply, alternative energy sources are used. In this case, a gas generator for electricity is more often used, which is installed in private houses, in summer cottages. Such a source can be the main or backup, in case of interruptions in the centralized network. Before choosing a product, you should understand its characteristics and operating features.
The device and principle of operation of the gas generator for electricity
A gas powered home generator is often used for heating. Its device is no different from similar models that run on other types of fuel. It contains the following parts:
- Housing. It can be rectangular or cylindrical. It is usually made from sheet steel.
- The combustion chamber. Since the device runs on gas, it does not require a container to load fuel. This unit is manufactured from heat resistant steel.
- Compressor. It is needed to pump air into the furnace. Without this, the fuel will not ignite.
- Turbine. Heated and expanded air enters it.
There is no fuel tank in the unit, as it runs on liquefied or natural gas. A combustion chamber is installed instead. The principle of operation of the apparatus is simple. First, the air enters the compressor, is compressed and sent to the combustion chamber, where it is mixed with a small amount of fuel. The mixture ignites and is brought to a high temperature. Gas enters the turbine and makes it rotate, generate electricity. Part of it is spent on the operation of the household gas generator itself. The combustion products are discharged through the exhaust pipe.
Main characteristics
When choosing a specific model of the device, its tasks and technical characteristics are taken into account.
Power
The power of the unit depends on how many devices the gas generating station can supply. The indicator ranges from 2-500 kW.
The main groups of devices:
- Up to 10 kW. Installed as a backup source of electricity in the country or in a private house. You can connect a refrigerator, lighting, air conditioning to it. Sometimes you can run a washing machine or microwave.
- 10 to 25 kW. Such gas generators of electricity are used for the autonomous supply of country houses and cottages. They allow the connection of all household appliances with a high starting factor.
- More than 25 kW. They are installed to supply power to several houses, a construction site, a production workshop.
To ensure uninterrupted power supply to all household equipment, you need to add up the power of all appliances connected to the network. In addition to the resulting value, 20-30% of the stock is added.
Cooling system
The gas generator for electricity works properly if it does not overheat. To prevent the problem, several types of cooling systems are used: air and water. The first option is natural (suitable for open devices with minimal power) and forced. The engine and generator are blown from different directions.
Water cooling is suitable for powerful devices (from 20 kW) in industrial plants. It normalizes the temperature of the generator and allows it to be used for heating or hot water supply. The system is practically silent during operation.
Duration of work
According to the duration of work, the following devices are distinguished:
- Constant action. This is a self-contained unit that fully supplies household appliances with electricity. Without a break, such a unit is capable of operating up to 20 hours. It is equipped with an automatic control system (on-off), as well as water cooling. The machine is periodically stopped to change the oil.
- Periodic power supply. The devices are installed in summer cottages or industrial workshops with a variable work schedule. The maximum running time is 12 hours. Since the device is equipped with an air cooling system, a longer period of operation is not possible.
- Emergency start. They are not used for the constant supply of electricity to the house. Such devices are needed if the power in the main network is turned off for a while.
All types of devices can be used for domestic use. It takes into account what functions the unit must perform.
Fuel type
Electric generators operate on gas. If there is no central line, it is allowed to use cylinders with liquefied fuel. If available, a utility permit is required to connect. The pressure in the network corresponds to 1.3-2.5 kPa. Instead of the classic version of the fuel, butane, propane, biogas can be used. The pressure when using liquefied fuel is 2-6 kPa.
The sizes of gas generators depend on their capacity. Minimum values: 2m * 1m * 1m, maximum - 5m * 2m * 2m.
Criterias of choice
To choose the right gas power plant for a private house, you need to take into account its capacity. High rates are required for devices that operate constantly, providing electricity and heating. Low-power devices are suitable for intermittent use. The following criteria are also taken into account:
- number of phases;
- start type: automatic or manual;
- version and dimensions;
- fuel consumption and type of power supply (from the line or cylinder);
- location.
If the device will be installed in a separate room, a simple frame structure can be used. For outdoor installation, a unit in a protected housing is required.
Scope of application
Electric gas generators are used in everyday life and industry. They are installed if the backbone network does not work efficiently. The unit can be installed at a high cost of electricity. It is installed near new buildings that are not yet connected to the central network.
In hospitals or enterprises where a continuous production cycle is important, a backup gas generator is installed to generate electricity, which is triggered if the electricity is cut off in the event of an emergency, repair work.
Installation and connection
Household gas generators must be connected to the fuel source correctly. This process is not easy, especially when the unit is equipped with an autorun system. A base is prepared for mounting the device: it must be absolutely flat. If the generator is installed indoors, ventilation is provided in it.
The room is heated if necessary. It is also necessary to provide for a system for removing exhaust gases to the outside. The minimum area of the room in which the generator is installed is 15 cubic meters. When connecting the device to the central gas main, a permit from the utilities is required.Corrections are made to the technical design of the building and a contract for equipment maintenance is concluded.
Advantages and disadvantages
Gas generators for home are convenient because they use different types of fuel, which are much cheaper than gasoline. They have the following advantages:
- the ability to connect to a cylinder and a main pipe;
- the use of the device for generating electricity, heating a room, receiving hot water;
- durability, since when using gas, the wear of the internal parts of the generator is minimal;
- environmental Safety;
- profitability.
However, there are also disadvantages: gas supply is not available everywhere. When connecting to the backbone, permission from a special service is required.
Despite the costly installation process, the use of gas generating units is justified in the event of frequent power outages or its complete absence. If it is impossible to use the main fuel system, you can use cylinders.
When choosing a device, the conditions for its use are taken into account, as well as the tasks that the unit must solve.
