Used Generators – Things To Check Before You Buy

Posted on April 23, 2013 by Peter Whitfield

Used Generator

YorPower apply the same high standards of engineering, workmanship and service to their used generators that they do to the ones they build

When buying a used generator, just like buying a used car, you need to be confident that you’re not going to finish up with an expensive problem.

You should see evidence of the number of hours it has run and ideally that the generator has been serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. But, just like a used car, can you be sure that the running hours stated on the control panel are genuine, that the service records are accurate and that the important filters and lubricants are correct? Not always! Sometimes it is just not possible to obtain the right information and that is why the buyer should be mindful of who the seller is.

Once you are confident that you can trust the information, buying a used generator can be a very efficient way of reducing capital outlay if your application is for standby power.
Every Used generator set should be tested and follow a staged process prior to sale:

Selection
The first step in ensuring reconditioned generators will meet expectation is to select good quality equipment. That will mean shopping around and doing your research. It is prudent to review an engine’s history and maintenance regime before purchase or acceptance in whole or in part exchange. Used generators that are nicely painted, have a new control panel fitted or look newer than the hours recorded (or stated by the seller) should ring alarm bells – be careful, they might have been used and abused.

Initial Load Test
Using a calibrated load bank to test the capability of the engine and complete unit under duress is a very good way of uncovering any failings. A load test is not unlike taking a used car and driving it hard on a motorway for an hour. A full load test up to 100% of capacity is recommended. It will help diagnose any potential shortfalls and should help you make an informed choice.

Repairs & Upgrade
You should always request a new control panel as part of the purchase deal as analogue units are not compatible with many modern telecommunication devices that could be fitted and be useful at a later date. The control and alarm system may include an auto start with automatic mains failure capability, remote start, modems, GSM’s and acoustic enclosures could be upgraded or retro-fitted. Consumables such as filters, belts and hoses should be checked for ware and be replaced if appropriate.

Final Load Test
If a used generator has failed the initial load test it may require another if the faults uncovered were considered to be minor and the purchase still worth pursuing. The unit should be tested again on load for a minimum of one hour and with staged loads up to 100%. During test both the engine and alternator should be monitored for speed and voltage characteristics to ensure the pre-requisite demands are met. A test certificate should be produced.

A good source for used generators, particularly large generators, would be hospitals, universities, telecommunication centres, banks and data centres. More often than not large generators installed for backup power in the UK are rarely, if ever, called into action and so typically have very low hours and are in good condition.

YorPower apply the same high standards of engineering, workmanship and service to their used generators that they do to the ones they build and manufacture as new; all carry a full Load Test Certificate.

See Used Generators from YorPower http://www.yorpower.com/m-used-generators-.htm

Available Used generator stock

For more information about used diesel generators for sale, http://www.yorpower.com/p-generators-used-generators-.htm

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Diesel Generators – The Importance of Maintenance

Posted on February 21, 2013 by Peter Whitfield

The Importance of Maintenance

YorPower Generator Servicing

You need your generator to be reliable. Whether it’s to be your main source of power (on a construction site, for example) or simply for backup you need to make sure you’ve got the right one for the job but getting it set up is just the beginning. You need to be confident you’ve got a generator that can live up to the demands of the role to provide an efficient, reliable source of power for the long-term so you need to put an effective maintenance regime in place and the importance of it can never be underestimated.

Be prepared

It’s all about being proactive and implementing a routine to make sure you’re not left with a generator that doesn’t provide the power you need. It could easily start to develop faults if it doesn’t undergo regular maintenance so you need to make sure you know the type of issues you could face and get a schedule arranged accordingly.

Stick to the schedule

How frequently your generator will require maintenance will depend on a whole range of factors from the engine you’ve got to the amount you use it but periodic checks can go a long way to improving its service life. You’ll want to set up a schedule of things that will need to be checked monthly, quarterly and yearly and don’t think you can avoid it if the generator is only there for backup either. Yes, it could be purely used as a standby but what would happen if you had an emergency only to find the generator didn’t work? If it’s out of action for some time it could well have developed issues so giving it a regular once-over will ensure it’s ready when you need it.

Won’t it cost more?

Not necessarily. It will cost money to have your generator maintained but the cost will be nothing compared to having it repaired or even replaced should it start to deteriorate or if it fails when you need it most!

Have a generator that performs

Failing to keep up with servicing in an attempt to save some cash will only ever be a false economy. You need your generator to provide power and without proper maintenance it could let you down so never underestimate the importance of proper maintenance and you’ll have a usable, efficient and fully-functioning generator that will deliver the performance you need when you need it.

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Generators for Farmers, Agriculture and Occasional Users

Posted on February 13, 2013 by Peter Whitfield
Diesel generators are an essential purchase for a whole range of applications but that doesn’t mean you want to spend a fortune. Choosing used versions will often be far more cost-effective than going for brand new ones but because you’re not getting a generator straight from the manufacturer you need to be even more careful in your choice, as choosing poorly could easily leave you out of pocket. That’s why we’ve put together a quick guide on how to choose used generators, helping ensure you make the right decision for a generator that can fulfil your requirements without breaking the bank:

• Know what you need it for. This is your first and most important consideration of all – do you need a generator for long-term use or do you need a standby generator for emergency situations? What do you need power for and how much power do they require to start up and to run? These questions and many more besides will determine the generator that’s right for you and you’ll want to do your research so you can see which one would be most suited to your individual requirements.

• Know the number of hours the generator has run, its maintenance history and schedule. It’s important to understand the maintenance schedule of any generator you’re thinking of buying, with a proper schedule extending the life and ensuring costs can be kept in check. You’ll want to look into its repair history to make sure it’s in proper working order too, but a reputable dealer should have refurbished it to ensure it’s got a decent service life ahead.

• Know the cost of spare parts. The cost of repairs can seriously eat into your budget so you need to know what the costs could be should any parts need replacing. Every generator is different with different parts accordingly, and of course, that means the price will differ too -knowing the cost of any replacements can ensure you make an informed decision so you don’t get any surprises later down the line. YorPower has a huge parts and consumables division backed by the expertise to supply the parts you need as quickly as possible.

• Know the running costs. As well as maintenance schedules and repairs you need to make sure you know what the general running costs will be so you can budget accordingly. Costs will vary according to the model you choose and the amount it’s going to be used so always factor this in and do your research accordingly.

• It’s all about knowing the facts so you can effectively determine the price, condition and any future running costs so you know what you’re getting for your money. Budgets are becoming increasingly tight and you don’t want to be left with a generator that will add to your overheads with costly repairs, replacements and maintenance issues but if you ask the right questions and do your research you’ll be able to get a great deal for a generator that can meet your every requirement.

Want to find generators for sale that can meet your expectations and deliver the performance, service life and price you’re after? Then you’ve come to the right place. YorPower carefully source diesel generators with low hours and full maintenance histories before refurbishing them to meet your high standards, so get in touch and you’ll find choosing a used generator can be quick, simple and hassle-free.
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International Standards Organisation (ISO) Generator Power Definitions

Posted on January 22, 2013 by Peter Whitfield

Consultants, generator users (and some resellers) are occasionally confused by the different terms used when defining a generator’s power.  Such confusion can lead to expensive mistakes when buying or hiring a generator so YorPower have listed the full definitions below.

The International Standards Organization (ISO) defines four types of duty in ISO 8528-1 (2005)

Continuous Operating Power (COP)

Prime Running Power (PRP)

Limited-Time running Power (LTP)

Emergency Standby Power (ESP)

To help in understanding the differences when specifying or preparing tenders these are the official definitions:

Continuous Power

Unlimited hours of use.

Non varying load factor is 70% to 100% of the published Continuous Power.

Typical peak demand is 100% of continuous rating for 100% of operating hours.

Note: Operating at load factors above these rating definitions will result in shorter oil change intervals and reduced hours to engine overhauls, resulting in higher generator and engine costs per year.

Refer to the Owner and Operating manuals for package specific service intervals and the impact of operating at higher load levels. Some ratings definitions are not available for all models.

Prime Power

Unlimited hours of use.

Average variable load factor is 70% of the Prime Power rating. 10% overload limited to 1 in 12 hours and/or not to exceed 500 hours per year. The 10% overload is available in accordance with ISO 3046-1 (2002). Life to overhaul of the engine is dependent on operation as outlined in ISO8528 (2005) and time spent operating above the rating guidelines will reduce the hours to engine overhaul.

Standby Power

Typical usage of 200 hours per year with a maximum of 500 hours per year with varying loads. Average variable load factor is 70% of Standby rating. No overload is available. Not for maintained utility paralleling applications.

Emergency Standby Power

Typical usage of 50 hours per year with a maximum of 200 hours per year with varying loads. Average variable load factor is 70% of Emergency Standby Power rating. No overload is available. Not for maintained utility paralleling applications.

With these definitions in mind a generator described as producing “200kVA Prime Running Power (PRP)” could usually be expected to provide an additional 10% of its PPR i.e. “220kVA on Standby Power Basis” and typically for 1 hour in every 12 up to a maximum of 500 hours per year .  It is vital when considering the purchase of a new generator that users compare generators using the same power ratings output.

YorPower publishes documents to assist generator users and specifiers – please click below to see other useful information

http://www.mtuonsiteenergy.com/fileadmin/fm-dam/mtu-oe/technical-info/white-papers/load_factor_MTU251_092311_E.pdf

http://www.yorpower.com/blog/?p=108

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YorPower Generators

Posted on January 10, 2013 by Peter Whitfield

When you’re on the lookout for a new or used generator you want to be sure that you’re getting the best possible unit within your budget.

Come to us

The good news is that as long as you know where to look you can benefit from excellent quality products without breaking the bank. At YorPower we go out of our way to offer a broad selection of top-notch generators for sale.

Indeed, we’re the UK’s leading independent manufacturer of diesel generators and have more than a quarter of a century’s experience in the field so you can rely on our expertise.

Whatever your needs

Because of our size and the strong supply partnerships we have forged over the years we can offer diesel generators to suit most power applications. Whether you need the items for industrial or manufacturing processes, to help with mining or agriculture or for data center and telecoms bases YorPower have the products and the skills to provide the best solution for your needs. Also, our generators can be ideal for private and domestic use and in hospitals, police offices and universities. We really are a one-stop-shop for these products.

More details

It’s worth noting that our diesel generators range from 3.5kVA to 3,375kVA at both 50 and 60 htz. Also, they come with proven, high-quality engine and alternator combinations. Most comprise a Perkins engine with a Leroy Somer alternator. However, we do manufacture gensets using a Cummins/Newage Stamford combination and MTU/Newage if this is preferred.

Peace of mind

It’s important that you have confidence in the generators you buy. We provide a two-year warranty as standard on all standby generators. We also have a help desk for additional customer support.

In addition our sister company, Power Plant Services, provides full UK coverage for large and small generators, UPS support, hire and maintenance. This includes a 24-7 emergency callout service and next day delivery of parts.

The full low down

Take a few minutes to look around our website. For more information you can also get in touch with our friendly, professional team by phone on +44 1977 688 155 or by email on sales@yorpower.com

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Finding the Right one from a Host of Diesel Generators for Sale

Posted on October 20, 2012 by Peter Whitfield

Here at YorPower we have a massive range of diesel generators that allow us to supply the exact unit you need to meet your requirements. One such requirement is providing small generators to power residential houses. Deciding on what type of generator and which will be the most economical, environmentally friendly and easy to run are the primary factors. Those that consider acquiring a generator as a prime or backup power source in the home do so for a variety of reasons, yet deciding on which unit to buy can seem like a step into the unknown.

We understand that you might not be prepared to make those decisions without a little advice from those who understand the industry best, which is why we offer a complimentary consultation so that whatever option you ultimately decide to explore, your choice is informed.

If you’ve been browsing the generators for sale on our website, but can’t work out what might be best for you, you should first ask and get the answers to a couple of important questions that will help you feel a little more comfortable and an understanding for what it is you need to do the job.

Diesel generators – Replacing Grid mains supply or Backup?

This is a major consideration, as the application determines how long you will be running your generator for under normal circumstances.

If the generator is to be the principal source of power for your property, then it will run most of the time, if not, all of the time. These applications are sometimes referred to as Base Load or Continuous Operating Power (COP). If the generator is running for long periods you will need to have the capacity to power all of the appliances that you are likely to use and enough fuel or batteries to assist!

Standby generators or backup generators on the other hand, will be in use for shorter periods of time – normally when there is a power cut. These occasions tend not to be too long, though clearly you still want to be sure that you have the capacity to cover any lengthy power outages. Likewise, the usage for that period of time might be less, given that at times such you might be looking at being economical in your consumption.

What’s My Wattage?

It’s important to consider the amount of energy you consume on a day-to-day basis and/or that you calculate what you will need at any given time. There are many variables, but it is possible to work out a fairly accurate idea by thinking about the appliances that you have in your home and recording their kW rating.

Modern plasma screen televisions also use up to five times as much energy as older models, so this should be another area to seriously consider. Electrically powered ovens are power hungry as are kettles!

Elsewhere, you should give thought to how energy-efficient and how big appliances like your fridge and freezer are. They cannot be switched off, given that they are effectively constantly in use. When power demand is low, typically at night it is possible to link your generator to an inverter to power batteries. The generator would only fire into action when the batteries had been depleted. Something else you can ask us about…..

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UK Energy Shortfall – Does Your Business Have a Contingency Plan?

Posted on October 16, 2012 by Peter Whitfield

Press reports of possible power cuts this winter are based on the increasingly small gap between production capacity and demand.  Capacity is reducing as coal fired power stations are taken off line to meet EEC pollution limits and as nuclear facilities undergo maintenance and eventual closure.  It is reported that if just one of the largest thirty eight UK power stations breaks down this winter at the same time as an upturn in demand, such as might result from a cold period, then a power shortfall would result in a cut in supply.

The National Grid is playing down the problem, at least in the short term, but the warning is likely to lead to further increases in prices if not actual cuts.

The situation is predicted to get worse rather than better in coming years.  The UK’s own energy regulator, Ofgem, has warned of the likelihood of electricity power cuts by the winter of 2015 resulting from the early closure of coal and nuclear power stations forcing reliance on increasingly expensive imported gas and on wind power which is widely acknowledged to be, at best, unreliable and frequently totally non-productive.

Ofgem’s figures show that shutdowns in coal and nuclear power stations will lead to a 30% reduction in the UK’s generating capacity by 2015 leaving the country with a shortage equivalent to 9,000 households.  However, the National Grid is unlikely to cut power to homes preferring to target businesses where demand can be reduced more quickly by closing down major consumers.

No business can afford to be without power, even for a short period and even if they have some warning.  The potential problems are not limited to companies operating industrial processes.  Power cuts do not differentiate between a company running an engineering workshop and one with offices using multiple computers.  When the power stops so does the business – even the ‘phones could go quiet.

Many businesses are taking action now to be certain that they can carry on working by investing in back-up generators that will automatically take over from the mains.  Such diesel generators are usually set up to switch over immediately the control unit detects a mains failure and will revert to mains once power is restored.  Generators may also be used to top up mains power to meet peak load if, for example, all the processes in a factory start at the same time.

YorPower have been producing emergency and standby generators in the UK for all sizes of business for over 25 years.  Their range of generators, from 10 to 2,200kVA, can provide power for those just needing to keep the lights and computers on to those running power hungry industrial processes.  YorPower are always happy to advise on the right size of generator and on the systems required to connect and control it efficiently – but don’t leave it too late, demand is going to rise sharply and you could be left in the cold and dark.

For more information please contact YorPower on +44 (0)1977 688 155 or email sales@yorpower.com.

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Diesel Generator Rating Plates – Understanding The Standards

Posted on October 8, 2012 by Peter Whitfield

One of the most important steps in sizing generator sets for any application is to determine the application’s average load factor.  Understanding this is essential not only for proper power system sizing but also for on-going reliability.

The International Standardisation Organisation (ISO) set the standards that apply to all generators.  Most, if not all, quality and performance parameters are defined by ISO. Generator set ratings are communicated to distributors and end users by means of a rating plate attached to the generator by all the major manufacturers.  ISO 8528-1 explains how to establish generator set ratings, measure performance and evaluate engines, alternators, controls and switchgear.

A maximum 24-hour average load factor defined by ISO-8528-1 establishes 70% as the permitted minimum average and is applicable for both standby and prime rated generator sets, unless and in advance, a higher average is agreed by the engine manufacturer. This means that a 1,000 kW generator set meeting this standard must be able to provide an average of 700 kW per hour over a 24-hour period.

In standby applications this means that the average load factor that can be sustained by most generator sets over an extended outage of 24 hours cannot exceed 70% of the nameplate standby rating, a factor that affects generator set sizing.  In contrast with most engines there are some, such as MTU, that are capable of an 85% average load factor on emergency standby rated generator set models above 200 kW.

For mission critical standby power systems, such as data centres, a continuous base load rating should be considered.

For more information please contact YorPower on +44 (0)1977 688 155 or email marketing@yorpower.com.

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Providing Power to Those of All Means

Posted on October 6, 2012 by Peter Whitfield
Businesses that might only require occasional use of an independent power source might scoff at the price of a brand new diesel generator for sale, particularly in the case of small businesses that do not want to throw too much of their capital into a single unit that might be sat idle for any given period of time.
This being the case, there are two logical options to explore: consider a used generator or generator hire. There are advantages to both options, but, they might not seem apparent to you straightaway.
Generator hire – Exploring the Options
Generator hire would suit customers who have a need for supplementary power in a remote location to energise specific equipment e.g. one off events such as weddings, exhibitions like music festivals or for a residential dwelling where a temporary loss of mains supply occurs.  Capital investment may not be possible so revenue expenditure would be the most straight forward way to finance a backup diesel generator.  It is important to consider the costs and operational focus that are required to ensure that additional maintenance costs are incurred.
Hiring is also ideal for companies that might only need a generator for a very short period of time, and therefore understandably have little desire to make the financial outlay. This might be for a one-off event to cover an existing factory where the supply is upgraded or that might be undergoing repairs.
Used generators – Exploring the options
Just because a unit has been pre-owned, don’t think that performance and future lifespan will be compromised. What some forget is that standby generators actually see very little use; though a unit may be years old, in reality a generator might have only ever been started for maintenance purposes.
Of course, companies that keep backup generators need to know that their system will work so that in the event of a power outage, there is no risk to the business continuity YorPower only acquire and sell used generator sets that have an accompanying full service history and low running hours.
All used generators that we handle undergo our own rigorous testing so that we know that the product we go on to sell meets the standards that our customers demand. All YorPower used generators are sold with full Load Test Certificate and a one-month warranty so that any financial commitment is made with complete confidence.Whatever your final choice, you can be sure that you have made the right one when dealing with us. We are committed to delivering customer satisfaction from initial enquiry right through to purchase and aftercare, so you can trust us to find just the solution you need.

Businesses that might only require occasional use of an independent power source might scoff at the price of a brand new diesel generator for sale, particularly in the case of small businesses that do not want to throw too much of their capital into a single unit that might be sat idle for any given period of time.

This being the case, there are two logical options to explore: consider a used generator or generator hire. There are advantages to both options, but, they might not seem apparent to you straightaway.

Generator hire – Exploring the Options

Generator hire would suit customers who have a need for supplementary power in a remote location to energise specific equipment e.g. one off events such as weddings, exhibitions like music festivals or for a residential dwelling where a temporary loss of mains supply occurs.  Capital investment may not be possible so revenue expenditure would be the most straight forward way to finance a backup diesel generator.  It is important to consider the costs and operational focus that are required to ensure that additional maintenance costs are incurred.

Hiring is also ideal for companies that might only need a generator for a very short period of time, and therefore understandably have little desire to make the financial outlay. This might be for a one-off event to cover an existing factory where the supply is upgraded or that might be undergoing repairs.Used generators – Exploring the optionsJust because a unit has been pre-owned, don’t think that performance and future lifespan will be compromised. What some forget is that standby generators actually see very little use; though a unit may be years old, in reality a generator might have only ever been started for maintenance purposes.

Of course, companies that keep backup generators need to know that their system will work so that in the event of a power outage, there is no risk to the business continuity
YorPower only acquire and sell used generator sets that have an accompanying full service history and low running hours.

All used generators that we handle undergo our own rigorous testing so that we know that the product we go on to sell meets the standards that our customers demand. All YorPower used generators are sold with full Load Test Certificate and a one-month warranty so that any financial commitment is made with complete confidence.

Whatever your final choice, you can be sure that you have made the right one when dealing with us. We are committed to delivering customer satisfaction from initial enquiry right through to purchase and aftercare, so you can trust us to find just the solution you need.

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Generator Fuel Consumptions – Comparison

Posted on June 21, 2012 by Peter Whitfield

After conducting some research on diesel engine fuel economy specifically for the power generation market sector, YorPower have tabled below a ‘fuel – estimated consumption’ chart for engines running at 100% of rated power.  Increasing numbers of clients and end users recognise that the amount of fuel a generator uses has a major impact on running costs and whilst capital outlay may be higher they are prepared to pay more to keep running costs as low as possible.

When buying a new car, truck or tractor fuel consumption is right up there in the decision making process – so logically the same criteria should apply with generators.  After all, they do consume considerable amounts of fuel.  But there is a problem – some engine manufacturers do not publish fuel consumption figures at all and many more make the figures very difficult to make sense of.  As a result the table below and the consumption stats are estimated but are based on the information we could obtain from each engine manufacturers website.

YorPower believe in providing you with all the information you need to make a considered and logical decision and as part of this we have brought together fuel consumption figures for several of the more popular generator engines in this comparison table below. We hope you find it useful…