Power generators, like electric generator sets, are among the most used equipment on construction sites. Renting is often the preferred option to have these tools available. However, few people know exactly how much a gasoline generator set consumes.
Power Generator vs. Electric Generator Set
It’s important to first clarify the terms. Power generators and electric generator sets are two pieces of equipment that serve the same purpose but have different characteristics. Particularly in terms of size, power, and ease of transport. The purpose of both is to generate electricity when operating in remote locations. Or simply when access to the fixed power grid is unavailable.
Power Generator
Power generators are generally smaller and less powerful than electric generator sets. These characteristics make them perfect for those who don’t need particular power and at the same time want equipment that’s easy to transport, even with a van.
Electric Generator Set
Electric generator sets, on the other hand, have more significant power and dimensions. However, they must be transported and positioned using heavy vehicles.
Both power generators and electric generator sets are used in the construction and events sectors. While the former can also be used by artisans and professionals who need energy for on-site installations, the latter also represent auxiliary or emergency power units. For this reason, they are also placed in industry and hospital facilities.
How does a gasoline power generator work?
As we have seen in a previous article on power generators, there are two elements that allow energy creation. The thermal engine and the alternator.
A engine is the gasoline-powered component that generates the rotational moment. The electric alternator is the part that transforms the generated energy into electric current. Electrical and electronic elements capable of transporting the current to the valves are also part of the structure. These can be standard or direct current.
This depends on the type of generator, which can have single-phase 220V plugs, three-phase 400V plugs, or even 12V direct current models available on the market. Visually, it’s simple to distinguish between different models, as those that generate large volumes of energy have large engines and alternators.
How much does it cost to use a gasoline electric generator set?
When talking about costs, we must consider the rental rate of the equipment (how much we pay to have the generator set available) and the consumption in terms of the amount of gasoline.
The Rate
The rental rate is one of the elements specified in the contract and depends on the generator’s power. Renting a small generator with a power between 6 and 15 kVA can cost about €10 per day. Renting an electric generator set on the other hand, costs from €45 per day for 25 kVA models up to €200 for the most powerful 200 kVA generators.
The Consumption
Calculating consumption can sometimes be complicated as each generator has its own consumption that varies according to power. Although there is no single calculation method, we can say that a medium-power generator set has an hourly consumption of about 0.3 litres of fuel for each kVa of electrical power produced. By combining the rental rate and the generator’s consumption, one can calculate the cost of using it.
Conclusion
Power generators and electric generator sets are widely used and rented equipment, especially for construction work and events. Understanding how much an electric generator set consumes is important to decide which one meets the customer’s needs. Turning to a professional rental company therefore becomes the best option to be supported in choosing the most suitable equipment for the job.
