How Does a Diesel Generator’s Fuel System Work?

Your diesel generator’s fuel system is crucial in ensuring that your business operations continue to run when there is a disruption to your mains power supply.

Having a good understanding of how the fuel system works can help you with knowing the components that need to be regularly maintained to ensure safety and reliability, how long you can run your diesel generator and how your diesel fuel should be stored.

Fuel tank

The fuel system of a diesel generator begins with a fuel tank. Your diesel generator has a fuel tank, but you can opt for an external fuel tank if you will be running your generator for an extended period of time. An external fuel tank also helps to ensure that your diesel fuel is stored in optimal conditions for preventing contamination.

Fuel line

The fuel line transports fuel from the tank to the engine. The fuel line is responsible for the continuous delivery of fuel to the engine.

Fuel filter

The fuel filter helps to remove impurities and contaminants from the fuel before it enters the engine. As diesel fuel can be easily contaminated by water, bacteria and oxidation, the fuel filter helps to ensure that clean fuel is reaching the engine. This is a component that needs to be maintained regularly to prevent generator failure.

Fuel injectors

The fuel injectors are responsible for the delivery of fuel to the engine’s combustion chamber. The diesel fuel is injected into the combustion chamber in small amounts, which is combusted and used to power the generator.

Fuel pump

The fuel pump delivers fuel to the engine and maintains the pressure required for the injectors. It works in conjunction with the fuel injectors to ensure the correct fuel to air ratio is maintained for efficient combustion.

It’s essential to ensure that all the components of the fuel system are regularly maintained, and fuel contamination is prevented. Regular maintenance ensures a long, reliable life for your diesel generator and an uninterrupted power supply for your business.

At Shanahan Power, our Asset Care Management service guarantees that you won’t get left in the dark with regular maintenance by our service engineers, and access to our 24/7/365 Breakdown Assist facility. Contact us to find out more!