Most users believe that engine oil is used to "lubricate" the moving parts of the engine. This is of course true, but there is more. In both generators and cars, it is recommended to check the engine oil level before long-term operation. Operating manual of every generator includes an oil level check before each engine start.

   

The purpose of oil.

What are other purposes of oil?

First of all, cooling the engine. The aspect of engine cooling  by oil is very important in any power generator. This is particularly important in small air-cooled engines. Unfortunately, these generators are most often neglected by users. When planning service, users often overlook small home generators, sometimes working on construction sites. This causes the engine to overheat and fail.

Another important function is to keep the engine clean.i Each oil contains cleaning compounds responsible for these processes. Their level is similar for petrol and diesel engine oils. The oil washes out the combustion products from the inside of the engine, which get into the oil during machine operation. First of all, this applies to acid combustion residues that can lead to engine corrosion.

Engine oils  are preventing moisture, which is caused in the engine by air. This is especially noticeable in winter, when water vapour builds up inside a cold engine right after start. A good quality oil includes emulsifiers, which first bind the water, and allow it to evaporate once the engine heats up. Unfortunately, in extreme winter conditions and with short operation with a cold engine, both emulsifiers and demulsifiers contained in the oil cannot cope with water, which can lead to sludge and exhaust carbon deposits. Therefore, an important part of a power generator is the engine block heater, which allows us to avoid running with a cold engine block.

Finally, let’s get back to the basic function of oil, i.e.lubrication. The longer the oil is used, the more its properties decrease in this respect. The viscosity of the oil is reduced. Synthetic oils are more resistant to these changes, as they have a more stable oil base in their composition.

   

   Worst-case scenario, i.e. what happens if the oil is not changed

The generator engine will be less protected. This will result in a decrease in viscosity, an increase in alkalinity and reduction of overall shear strength of the oil. Even top-shelf oils won't keep their properties indefinitely. In addition, new engine designs work at higher pressure, which affects engine operation.

Always change oil according to the schedules suggested in the operating manual for the generator. Modern industrial equipment itself inform the user when it is time to change oil.

We recommend contacting our service department, which will gladly help you with servicing your generator. Our range of services includes both simple oil changes and complete service inspections of most engine brands.

 

 

      

Please feel free to contact us.