Homemade Diesel Generator

Using the abandoned FORD DIESEL from the last video I am going to build the ultimate off grid power plant

A diesel generator is the combination of any diesel engine with an electrical generator known as an alternator which is designed to create electric energy. Actually diesel powered generators have been used commercially for a long time. The major function of the this generator is to eliminate the chemical energy of diesel and convert it to kinetic energy.

The largest cost when it comes to diesel plant owning generators is that of fuel consumption and operating cost for power applications. However, for back up new and used generators the largest cost and therefore primary financial concern is the capital cost. Specific consumption varies, but a modern diesel plant will consume between 0.28 and 0.4 litres of fuel per kilowatt hour at the generator terminals. However, although diesel engines are called diesel engines, it doesn't mean that they can only work with diesel fuel. The engines can work with the full spectrum of crude oil distillates, from natural gas, alcohols, gasoline, wood gas to the fuel oils from diesel oil to residual fuels. This is implemented by introducing gas with the intake air and using a small amount of diesel fuel for ignition. Conversion to 100% diesel fuel operation can be achieved instantaneously.

New and used diesel generators are used as back up power supplies during power failures. Also, a diesel generator set (which is a combination of a diesel engine, a generator and various ancillary devices) routinely support main power grids worldwide in two distinct ways: Peak Saving and Grid support. Peak savings see diesel powered generators being turned on at peak times of maximum demand for electricity, which is generally mid-afternoon in winter in colder climates and midday in summer in warmer climates. Grid support sees emergency standby diesel generators such as those used in hospitals, water plant etc., used as a secondary function. These generators are widely used in the US and the UK to support the respective national grids at different times for a variety of different reasons.

Also See:

Homemade Diesel Generator: Get Yourself a Diesel Generator As a Great Back Up Source of Electricity

The principle of Diesel generator is no different from generator with gasoline fuel, or any other fuel. That is, the fuel creates kinetic energy for the Generator.

The homemade work that you need to do is:

Set up a transmission mechanism and convert the motion from a diesel consuming machine to a generator
Know how to use the Inverter.
Set up the charger for the inverter. If you want backup, have a battery bank ready.

That's all. And here is a picture of a homemade Diesel generator:

I will describe in more detail.

1. Diesel Engine

More deltails: 188F Diesel Engine Power Hand start. You can't make this engine yourself, you have to buy it.

2. Generator

More details: Generator Low Speed

3. Flywheel for engine

The engines usually have flywheels available, and so are the generators. So need more suitable belt is OK.

4. Motion belt

See: Drive Belt 1/2inx88in Lawn Mower Deck Belt Replacement

If a belt is not used, the generator shaft can be attached directly to the Diesel engine shaft. As the original illustration. The 2-axis connection can be found at your local mechanic shop. Coupling is available for sale, just describe to the seller, they will give it to you.

5. Bearings

Find the right bearing if you use a flywheel. This is a rather inconvenient DIY job. Maybe it's a good idea to connect the 2 axes directly.

6. Inverter

Inside the inverter, there is a circuit that converts AC in the form of noise and instability (due to the Diesel generator running at an unstable speed) to DC. Then from DC to AC as required ( 60Hz, 220V, 110V )