Diesel Generator Distributors Key Terms

Power your way through diesel generator lingo by knowing key terms

By Tara McClendon, Freelance Writer/Editor Tara McClendon

A diesel generator is a great backup source of energy for businesses that can't afford to be out of power. If you have a portable business that requires power regardless of location, you may want to work with diesel generator distributors to find the best machine for your business's energy requirements. When you want to look for a diesel generator, you may find it beneficial to learn some of the key terms associated with the industry. This can help you understand the specifications provided by the distributor.

Watt

Most diesel generator distributors provide a watt or kilowatt measurement in the specifications for their generators. A watt is a universal measurement designed to tell you how much power the machine generates. Kilowatt (kW) machines produce more power than ones measured in watts.
Try: For a definition of watt and how it relates to a kilowatt, visit TechTarget.

Silent generator

Many diesel generator distributors classify their machines by noise level. A silent generator is one term used to define the level of noise produced by the machine as it works. A silent generator will produce sound, but it is the quietest of all the machines.
Try: Contractors Depot offers specifications for its WhisperWatt diesel generator. The specs include the noise level, measured in dBA, for each machine.

Run time

The run time of a diesel generator indicates the amount of time the machine will run continuously before it runs out of diesel. The run time depends on the capacity at which you run the machine.
Try: DuroPower provides information on its models, including the run time for diesel generators at given energy outputs.

Caterpillar

Most distributors will either carry Caterpillar generators or compare their machines to those of this brand. Caterpillar is a leading manufacturer of generators. A Caterpillar machine goes by the name Cat.
Try: Visit the website for Caterpillar to view its models and to learn more about the company.

Sizing

When it comes to sizing, you need to consider the power output and the physical dimensions. A distributor can help you determine the best sizing for your needs.
Try: Diesel Service & Supply offers charts with sizing calculations on its website. You can click on the provided link to read an article detailing how to size a generator.

Enclosures

Many distributors carry accessories for diesel generators, including enclosures. A quiet cover, or enclosure, is a sound-proof cover you can use on a generator to reduce its noise level. You can also buy a weather-proof enclosure to protect the machine from the elements.
Try: Genset Central provides details on the features it can offer with a custom enclosure.