Experimental underperformance detection of a fixed-speed diesel–electric generator based on exhaust gas emissions

Low load is one of the most challenging combustion stages for a fixed-speed diesel electric
generator. Due to incomplete combustion during this phase, a significant proportion of contaminants
form inside the cylinder. This can lead to numerous chemical and mechanical harms to the
diesel engine, resulting in friction, efficiency reduction, increased fuel consumption, and prematurely
ending the generator’s life. These phenomena are qualified as underperformance, possibly due
to a misfire and/or a low-efficiency value (air fuel–fuel ratio). Therefore, detecting and preventing
underperformance and reducing its extended operation is crucial. This paper deals with the
performance and emission analysis of a multicylinder fixed-speed diesel engine driving an electric
generator (300 kW) fueled with ultra-low sulfur diesel (�15 mg/kg) to provide energy in an isolated
Canadian community. The tests were carried out according to ISO 3046-1:2002 standard in a remote
site to identify clues that can prevent prolonged operation in underperformance. Among the tests
conducted, emissions such as sulfur (S), carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxide (NOx), and exhaust
gas temperature are considered the best indices for detecting the underperformance of a fixed-speed
diesel–electric generator under very-low and low load (0–30%) with the following registered values:
18 ppm for S, 4% for CO2, 150 ppm for NOx, and 210 �C for the temperature.