15 Inspection Steps Before the First Start-up of Diesel Generators

Right before you start your diesel generator for the first time, it is important to learn 15 inspection steps to confirm your generator is ready to serve the need. While diesel generators work as saviors at hospitals, factories, data centers, and commercial buildings, they need to be properly checked to avoid possible mishaps.

1. Site Inspection

The site or the physical location where the diesel generator is placed is of utmost importance. First and foremost, carry out site analysis.

Check if your generator is placed in a stable and leveled space.
Make sure there is easy access for technicians to reach the generator for maintenance and service.
Confirm that there are no flammable materials around or near the diesel generator.

2. Fuel System Inspection

A fuel system is the storage room of a diesel generator that securely contains diesel before it reaches the generator’s engine. Before starting, tick the following points.

Make sure the fuel tank is appropriate for the fuel type.
Identify if the fuel lines are secure and not showing any leakage.
Check the fuel filters and make sure they are installed in a correct way.

3. Engine Oil Inspection

Next step, move to engine oil. It is an important element of diesel engines that works by lubricating the moving parts and keeping them running smoothly.

To check the oil level, use a dipstick.
Make sure the oil grade is the same as required by the manufacturer.
Check for any signs of debris or contamination.

4. Coolant System Inspection

When you start a diesel generator, the engine starts working and results in heating the entire machine. To cater to this head, a cooling system is made. Inspect the cooling system by following the steps.

Check the level of coolant and make sure it reaches the “full” or “max” mark.
Check all the hoses and identify if there are any cracks or loose clamps.
Move towards the radiator and confirm that it is clean and unobstructed.

5. Air Filter Inspection

The air filter is another important part of the diesel generator that purifies the air before it enters the engine. To avoid poor performance, inspect the air filter as per the following guidelines.

Begin by removing the air filter.
Inspect if there is any dirt or damage.
If the filter is worn out, consider replacing it for proper combustion.

6. Battery Inspection

A battery is another vital component that helps start the diesel generator. It supplies electric power to the engine and cranks it during the starting process. To be confident that your generator is in good shape, check the following points.

Identify if the battery is charged and the voltage is adequate.
Inspect the terminals and see if there is any corrosion.
If there is any debris or dirt, clean the terminals and tighten the connections.

7. Electric Wiring Inspection

Proper electric wiring is essential to supply electricity from one component to another component and to control signals. Since you rely on this wiring to ensure your generator system works properly, make sure the following.

Check all the wiring in and around the generator system and inspect for any visible damage.
Confirm that cable connectors are secured tightly.
Also, make certain that the control panel wires are labeled properly.

8. Mounts And Fasteners

A diesel generator is a combination of multiple components tightly connected with mechanical parts such as mounts and fasteners. They hold the generator in one place. To ensure the diesel generator is good to go, check these thoroughly.

Check the tightness of engine mounts. If they are loose, tighten them.
Carry out an inspection of isolators and see if they are in good shape.
Tighten flywheel screws, anchor bolts, and other parts that move.

9. Exhaust System Inspection

The exhaust system carries all gases away from the generator to keep it running properly. Therefore, inspecting it is also an important thing. Check the elements below to be sure.

Check the exhaust pipe and see if there is any damage present. If yes, fix or replace it or ask a professional.
Make sure no leaks are present at the joints.
Ensure there are no combustible materials present near the generator.

10. Control Panel Inspection

The control panel has complete control of when to start, stop, monitor, or even protect the diesel generator. Make sure it is in its best self so that the diesel generator works properly.

To inspect, start by powering up the control panel.
See if the gauges, display lights, and other elements work.
Test the emergency stop button and confirm that it works properly.

11. Safety Device Inspection

The safety device of a diesel generator is important to ensure the safety of the engine, generator, and people around. This element needs to work perfectly to ensure safe usage of the generator. Follow the ways mentioned below to inspect the device.

Make sure the fire suppression system is working.
Check the safety guards present on the moving parts.
Confirm that all emergency alarms are working properly.

12. Grounding Inspection

A diesel generator needs to be securely installed on the earth. This includes cables fixed in the soil to avoid electric shocks or other damage. Right before you start the generator, make certain the following.

Make certain that the generator is grounded in the correct way.
Check all the earthing connections. Make sure they are tightened.
Measure the resistance between the generator’s grounding system and the earth. Ensure it is as per the recommendation of the manufacturer.

13. Belt and Hose Inspection

In a generator, belts are used to transfer power, while hoses are used to supply fluids like coolant. Both these elements look after the internal process of this diesel machine. Carry out proper inspection of the belt and hoses by:

Ensuring there are no wear signs or tension on the belts.
Checking hoses for cracks and leaks.
If you find that belts and hoses are worn or in bad shape, replace them immediately.

14. Lubrication Inspection

Lubrication is important to prevent metal components from wearing out. It not only reduces wear but also works for friction and heat. To ensure your generator is well lubricated, follow the steps below.

First, check if all the metal elements are lubricated. If not, lubricate all the moving parts as per the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Look for grease points and make sure they are lubricated.
Here, one thing is important to notice. While lubrication is important, the access should not drip.

15. Final Review Before Start

When you are all set with the previous steps, you are good to start the diesel generator. But, just to be on a safe side, to the last steps, including:

Quickly review the previous steps and make sure everything is on point.
Make sure all wrenches, screwdrivers, bolts, rags, and other tools are kept away from the generator.
Last time, check the area around the generator, and then turn it on.

Conclusion:

Starting a diesel generator for the first time looks like an easy job. But when your main focus is a careful and reliable start-up, you need a complete action plan. Our 15-step inspection guide will help you not only start the generator but also ensure it works properly throughout the time. If you are looking for trustworthy diesel generators, Huaquan Power has the best ones in the market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should we start the diesel generator with the load connected?

Ideally, no. You should start a diesel generator without a load connected. Without a load, you give time to the oil pressure and temperature to get normalized. Once normal operation is confirmed, you can add the load gradually.

What signs to notice during the first few operational hours of a diesel generator?

During the first operational hours, look out for oil pressure, temperature of coolant, frequency, and voltage. Also, see if there is any noise, smoke, or any other abnormal condition. If anything exceeds the ideal limits, immediately shut it down.

Is engine preheating essential to start the generator in cold weather?

If the temperature is low, preheating the engine improves the reliability of the startup. Since cold oil does not flow easily and results in the wearing out of the engine, it is important to preheat it.