Common Sensors Used in Diesel Generator Sets

A reliable and robust set of sensors are typically used to monitor the normal operation of diesel generator sets. In the process of using modern diesel generators, customers can monitor and remote control their units by using a mobile App or computer conveniently. In this article, let’s look at several common sensors used in diesel generators.

What sensors are used in a diesel generator?

A generator sensor is usually composed of three parts: sensitive element, conversion element, and conversion circuit. Generally, the oil pressure sensor, water temperature sensor, and speed sensor are the three most common sensors.

Oil pressure sensor

An oil pressure sensor is used to measure the oil pressure on the diesel engine. Actually, it covers at least two different and distinct types of sensor - an oil pressure switch and and oil pressure sender. Oil pressure switches indicate the existence of oil pressure in the engine. If there is no oil or it runs out, the pressure switch opens or closes an electrical circuit, warning you with a dashboard light. Most oil switches close when they activate to show low oil pressure. Oil pressure senders can sense the oil pressure of your diesel engine and transmit it to the engine controller. A range of readings of the oil pressure will be displayed to you on the control panel.

Common Diesel Generator Sensors and Their Functions

Water temperature sensor

A water temperature sensor is basically a thermistor that changes resistance with temperature. It can monitor the temperature of generator and prevent overheating. The sensor is designed to accurately measure and monitor the temperature of water in various settings. As the engine’s temperature rises due to constant driving, the resistance of the thermistor decreases, and the sensor sends a signal to the ECU, which adjusts the fuel mixture and other parameters to maintain the particular engine temperature.

Speed sensor

The speed sensor is used to monitor the speed of diesel generator set in real time. Generally speaking, the speed of the diesel generator set is stable at 1500 RPM or 1800 RPM. If the speed of the generator is out of control, the voltage and frequency will also be affected, causing the diesel generator set to work improperly. The speed sensor is an indispensable part of automatic gensets, its quality affects the stability and safety of the equipment directly.

In addition to the three most common sensors mentioned above, there are also other sensors available on the market. The following are several types of sensors that are often found in the power generation systems.

Water level alarm sensor

The sensor is specially designed for low water level alarm of diesel generator sets. When the water level of the tank is lower than the probe position of the alarm sensor, the sensor outputs a switch signal to the unit protection block, unit controller and other diesel generator set control devices to achieve low water level alarm and shutdown function.

Intake air temperature sensor

The intake air temperature sensor measures the temperature of the air charge in the intake manifold. It is used to supply the engine control unit with an important measurement for correcting the mixture formation and the ignition. The sensor protects the engine against abnormal temperatures by turning on warning lights, logging fault codes, and possibly shutting down the engine.

Exhaust gas temperature sensor

The exhaust gas temperature sensor measures the temperature of the exhaust gas and provide real-time temperature readings. This information is then relayed back to the engine control unit or ECU, where appropriate action is taken. In diesel engines, exhaust gas temperature sensors are also used to monitor the temperature of the diesel particulate filter (DPF) to establish the correct temperature for regeneration, reducing harmful emissions.

Diesel fuel level sensor

A diesel level sensor is an instrument for monitoring the level of fuel in the tank and sending this information to the generator's control system, ensuring a continuous and reliable fuel supply. If you need to monitor fuel level in your diesel generators set without manual intervention, it’s a good idea to install this type of sensor. With the integration of the diesel level sensor into your generator's control system, you can ensure that your equipment will continue to operate smoothly without interruption. This automation also aids in preventing potential damage to the generator that could be caused by running out of fuel.

These sensors are important components to ensure stable and economic operation of diesel generators, playing an important role in their normal operation. You can choose to equip your generator with any of them based on your needs. If you need any further information or assistance regarding to diesel generator sensors, feel free to contact us and we will gladly help you.

Dingbo Power is a professional diesel generator manufacturer with more than 17 years’ experience. We are an authorized OEM supplier of diesel engines for generator sets including Cummins, Perkins, Deutz, Volvo, Yuchai, SDEC, MTU, Ricardo, Wuxi, etc. Our AC generators include Stamford, Leroy Somer, Marathon, Siemens and Engga and so on. Contact us today and our experts can help you choose the diesel generator that best fits your needs.