Power is one of the vital elements in a construction site, regardless of the project being undertaken. Whether it’s infrastructure, buildings, or industrial construction, the constructors must have a source of power to run their projects smoothly. In most cases, construction sites are located off-grid, making it hard to access constant and reliable sources of energy. This creates the need to look for an alternative power supply to keep their equipment running.
Generators are the most reliable equipment for solving power issues at a construction site due to their portability and ability to provide motive power to enable construction machinery to function. They act as the source of electricity to light the construction site and enable all other functions requiring power. This article will help you understand more about generators, including types, importance, and what to consider when choosing a generator for your construction site.
Importance of Generators at a Construction Site
Generators are crucial equipment in construction sites as they help power many functions.
They help the builders on the site with their administrative functions using mobile phones, computers, and laptops that require a reliable source of power. They help power the whole construction site, including trailers and offices.
In most cases, workers live on the construction site during the project, meaning they require temporary housing during the period. Generators can provide them with power for cooling and heating systems and other power appliances.
Generators are also cost effective source of power that can help you save a lot. The good thing about generators is that you can even rent if your budget does not allow you to buy one.
Types of Generators Used In a Construction Site
The type of generator required in a construction site depends on the size of project, budget, and the amount of power needed in the site. The most convenient generators for construction sites are portable generators. This is because they can be transferred from one construction site to another when need arises. They also provide consistent and reliable power needed in a construction site. Let’s look at the major types of construction generators.
High Powered Generators
When the construction project is large, the power machinery is also large. This means a large quantity of power is needed, which can only be provided by high-powered generators if there is no electricity connectivity nearby. Able Sales provides their clients with high-powered generators to assist in running large construction projects, including roads and huge commercial buildings. These types of generators can power earthmovers, concrete machinery, and road-moving equipment, requiring a large amount of power (200Kw-2500Kw).
Medium Powered Generators
These generators produce power ranging between 5kW and 200kW. They are mostly used in smaller construction works, including single houses and small road constructions. Most medium construction sites use electric equipment such as concrete mixtures and circular saws, making medium-powered generators the best option.
Portable Generators
Just like the name portable, these types of generators are movable. That can be transferred from one site to another if needed. Portable generators provide construction sites with reliable power for smooth operations. Without them, it would be hard to draw power from a centralized location to plants in different areas. Portable generators are always readily available to help you run your construction project, whether large or small.
Standby Generators
These are mostly used for emergencies. In case the main power source or generator fails, they are always on standby to ensure the project does not stop. Standby generators are crucial, especially when the project has a strict deadline. They ensure the project keeps running to achieve the intended goal within the planned time.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Generator for Your Construction Site
Construction projects differ in the type of equipment they use due to size and specifications, among other factors. A good example is a road construction and a building project; both require different equipment because they have diverse requirements. Understand your project and its requirements in order to choose the right type of generator. You should also understand the types of generators to know which one is capable of running the tools and equipment used in your construction site.
Size of the project
In an extensive construction site like a road building, a high-powered generator will be the best option to enable large handling equipment or building equipment to run smoothly. For smaller projects like family houses and repairs, medium-powered generators should be your choice. You should also have a standby generator in case the main generator is being repaired or under maintenance. When you need a power supply in different areas, use portable generators for easy transfer.
Quality
Be keen when choosing a construction generator. Ensure that it is of high quality and that it meets the demands of your project. To know if a generator is of good quality, check its engine. A generator might be well-built, but with an inefficient engine, it’s as well as dead. Consider the reputation of a company before choosing a generator. You can also determine quality through the generator’s fuel efficiency. Choose a generator that uses fuel efficiently to reduce the cost of frequent refueling. Check the other components, such as the thickness of the parts, ease of maintenance, and durability.
Quiet and Clean Generator
In the past, generators were extremely noisy and emitted dirty gases. Technological advancements have enabled the creation of quiet and clean generators. However, the levels of cleanliness and quietness differ. You should choose the cleanest and quietest generator to provide construction workers with a safe environment. Power cleanliness is crucial as it not only contributes to the success of the project but also enhances the health of workers and those around them. It also reduces noise pollution that can harm workers’ hearing.
Conclusion
Generators are essential construction machinery. The power supply is crucial in almost all construction sites. However, some construction takes place in remote areas where electricity is hard to access. Project owners are left with no choice but to look for alternative power sources. This makes generators the best option. They provide enough reliable and safe sources of power to construction sites, enabling operations to run smoothly. Understand different types of generators to find the right one for your project. Whether it’s a large or small construction, there is the right type for each project. Choose a quiet and clean, high-quality generator to enhance workers’ health and facilitate the success of your project.
