A generating station in which diesel engine is used as the prime mover for the generation of electrical power is simply called as diesel power plant.
In a diesel power plant, diesel engine works as a prime mover by burning the diesel inside the engine and the products of this combustion works as the working fluid to produce mechanical energy. The diesel engine drives the alternator which then turns mechanical energy into electrical energy.
Since the power generation cost of diesel power plant is high because of the high price of diesel they are only used to produce small power and used mostly when it is must needed. In this blog, we will discuss various components used , working principles, advantages, disadvantages, and applications of diesel power plants.
Table of Contents
What is a Diesel Power Plant?
A generating station in which diesel engine is used as the prime mover for the generation of electrical power is simply called as diesel power plant. Diesel engine works as a prime mover by converting the chemical combustion of the diesel into mechanical energy. The mechanical energy is then converted into electrical energy with the help of alternator which then produce electrical energy.
Also View: Top 10 Electrical Questions and Answers for an Interview
Components of a diesel power plant
There are several components which works together to generate electrical energy in a diesel power plant. The various types of components of a diesel power station are:
- Diesel engine
- Air intake system
- Exhaust system
- Fuel supply system
- Cooling system
- Lubrication system
- Starting system
- Alternator
- Control panel
The figure below shows the schematic diagram of a diesel power station.
How Does a Diesel Power Plant Work?
A diesel power plant utilizes a diesel engine as its primary mover to produce electricity. The combustion chamber of the engine is the initial location where diesel fuel is introduced, where it intermixes with compressed air and ignites. This rapid combustion produces a high-pressure force that generates a rotation of the crankshaft and drives the pistons. The alternator generates alternating current (AC) electricity by rotating the rotor with the mechanical energy from the crankshaft.
Engine efficiency and safety are guaranteed by critical systems, including the fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, and exhaust system. The reliability, efficiency, and flexibility of diesel power plants render them ideal for industrial applications, remote locations, and emergency power. Despite obstacles such as petroleum costs and emissions, they continue to be essential for the provision of scalable and reliable power solutions.
Advantages of Diesel Power Plant
a. The design and layout of the plant are quite simple.
b. It covers less area as the number and size of the auxiliaries is small.
c. it can be installed at any areas.
d. There are no any standby losses.
e. It can be started quickly and can pickup the load in short time.
f. The overall cost of expenses is much less than a steam power station of same capacity.
g. it requires less quantity of water for cooling.
h. Requires less number of operating staff.
Demerits of Diesel Power Plant
a. The power station can only generate small amount of power.
b. The running cost for a diesel generator is usually high since the fuel used is only diesel.
c. The maintenance charges are usually high and also lubrication cost is higher.
d. Storing of diesel fuel is complicated as there will be chances of fire if not kept safely.
e. The plant doesn’t work efficiently under overload conditions for a long period of time.Components of a diesel engine: intake, exhaust, and fuel systems.
Selection of site for Diesel Electric plant
- Distance from the Load Center: In order to minimise the cost of electrical energy transmission and distribution, the plant should be installed as close to the load centre feasible.
- Land Availability: Land that is inexpensive and located in close proximity to the load centre is necessary for the construction of a diesel station
- Water Availability: Soft water is readily accessible for chilling purposes.
- Foundations: As we are aware, vibrations are generated by diesel engines or machines. Therefore, ensure that the diesel engine is constructed on a solid foundation.
- Fuel Transportation: The diesel facility is situated at a considerable distance from the fuel mines. Therefore, in order to supply petroleum to the plant, it is necessary to establish a reliable transportation system, such as rail or road.
- Local Conditions: For the purpose of increasing the demand for power and the availability of future expansion space.
- Distance from populated area : Due to the commotion it generates, the plant should be located in a remote location.
Applications of Diesel Station
Emergency and Backup Power: Diesel power plants serve as the fundamental infrastructure for emergency power systems, offering essential assistance in the event of a failure in primary power sources. In hospitals and medical facilities, they assure the continuous functionality of life-saving equipment and crucial systems during power outages. Data centers rely on diesel generators to ensure data integrity and uninterrupted operations, as they store large quantities of sensitive information. Commercial and residential facilities employ diesel generators to maintain vital services during power outages, guaranteeing minimum interference with everyday operations.
Remote and Off-Grid Locations: In areas where there is no connection to the primary power grid, diesel power plants are used as the principal source of electricity. Renewable energy sources play a vital role in rural and distant places, supplying power to residences, educational institutions, and commercial establishments. In situations such as islands and mining operations, where it is not feasible or possible to connect to the electrical grid, diesel power plants provide a dependable and steady source of electricity, catering to both residential and industrial requirements.
Industrial and Commercial Use: Industries and building sites heavily depend on diesel power plants to meet their energy requirements. Within the manufacturing and construction industries, these plants provide the necessary energy to operate large and powerful machinery and equipment, so guaranteeing uninterrupted production and reducing the occurrence of periods when operations are halted. The agricultural industry also derives advantages from the utilization of diesel power, employing it to operate irrigation systems, processing equipment, and diverse farm machinery, hence facilitating food production and processing activities.
Transportation and Marine: Diesel generators are used in the transportation sector, namely in railways, to provide electricity for locomotives and railway stations. This ensures smooth and uninterrupted train operations, enhancing efficiency. Diesel engines play a crucial role in the maritime sector since they serve as the main source of power for ships. They provide propulsion and generate electricity for various onboard systems such as navigation and communication. This allows for extended trips and ensures the smooth functioning of shipping activities.
Military and Defense: Diesel power plants play a vital role in military and defense operations, particularly in remote or tactical settings. They assist military bases and field operations by supplying dependable power for communication, logistics, and operational requirements. During times of disaster recovery and emergency response, diesel generators are crucial in providing electricity for vital services like communication, medical care, and temporary shelters, hence assisting in prompt and efficient response operations.
Peak Load Management: Diesel power plants assist utility companies in managing peak load demands during times of heavy electricity consumption, such as during harsh weather conditions or when the power grid is strained. By augmenting power capacity, they mitigate the risk of overburdening the main power grid and guarantee a consistent and uninterrupted electricity provision to consumers, so preserving the equilibrium and dependability of the entire energy system.
Event and Temporary electricity Supply: Diesel generators are essential for supplying temporary electricity to events and construction sites. During outdoor concerts and festivals, they provide the necessary energy to operate lighting, sound systems, and other equipment, guaranteeing a seamless and uninterrupted experience. Diesel generators are used on construction sites to provide power for tools, lighting, and temporary offices, which helps in the continuous progress of infrastructure and new construction projects.
Also Check : What is A Circuit Breaker?