What are the differences between natural gas and diesel generator sets?
When deciding on which prime power or standby generator option is best for you, the two options to consider are natural gas or diesel power. It’s important to note that both offer a variety of advantages and disadvantages and it’s therefore best to consider the application they’ll be used for.
In terms of operation, both natural gas and diesel generators behave in a similar way, with the only significant difference being the fuel source used to power the unit.
Traditionally, diesel powered generators have been used in prime and standby power for both industrial and commercial applications. Gas powered generators have sometimes been overlooked for these applications, as they are often perceived to be more costly, less efficient and durable and with less fuel reliability. This is no longer the case however, as with the development of new engine technologies, the differences between the two generator types are less well defined.
The main differences
1) Cost
Although some diesel generators can be more expensive to purchase (Stage V and Tier 4 final models), the higher energy density of diesel means that they are often more efficient and in turn less costly to run.
However, with the advancements in technology around natural gas generators, there may come a point in the not so distant future where natural gas could overtake diesel in terms of energy efficiency.
2) Fuel Availability
Availability of fuel is a major consideration when it comes to which generator option you decide on.
If the generator will be located in an area where natural gas is available, then it’s simple to avail of it via a pipeline. However, it should be considered that in the same way that electricity outages occur, so can interruptions in gas supply.
Although diesel may lack the convenience of a pipeline, it is easy to source via a local supplier and used in abundance globally.
3) Environmental & Safety Considerations
No fuel is without risks and all need to be handled and stored correctly to reduce these.
With a volatile and highly flammable nature, natural gas needs to be properly contained to ensure that the risks relating to pipeline leaks are mitigated.
Due to the fact that diesel burns at much higher temperature, diesel is considered to be a comparably safer fuel in terms of volatility and flammability.
In terms of environmental impact, natural gas generators have the advantage. Natural gas burns more cleanly than diesel and as such offers lower emissions. Natural gas generators are also typically quieter and produce virtually no odour.
It’s no secret that diesel generators are under the spotlight reference their emissions. The introduction of the tier/stage standards in 1996 ensured progressively more stringent emissions standards, forcing engine manufacturers to introduce new technologies. With the combination of cleaner burning fuels, additives, more efficient filters, in addition with other advancements, NOx levels have been reduced by over 99% in stage V/tier 4 final models.
4) Reliability
Although diesel engines typically have longer life spans than natural gas, new technologies in gas generators have led to improvements in engine longevity. Natural gas generators require more maintenance than diesel generators, resulting in higher costs and more downtime.
To enjoy the greatest life span, it’s crucial that diesel generators are regularly serviced and maintained. Lack of proper care could potentially reduce an engines life span by as much as half. It’s important to note however, that diesel engines typically require less maintenance overall than their gas counterparts, resulting in lower maintenance costs.
Natural gas remains a valid option for standby power requirements, due to the limited time it may be used. The life span of a natural gas generator may in this case be similar to a diesel generator.
Emissions compliant diesel and natural gas generators
Rapid Power Generation offers a wide range of prime and standby power diesel and natural gas generators for every application. With over 30 years of knowledge and experience of the power generation industry, our helpful team can recommend the ideal emissions-compliant power solution for your requirements. Get in touch with us today to find out more.