Power Generation Applications
Measure a diesel generator’s fuel use alongside the electricity it delivers. Use litres per kWh, the load profile and total operating cost to assess the value of treatment.
Define the generator duty
Prime-power generators, backup installations and light towers work differently. Record the model, rated output, actual load, run hours, fuel system and service delivered before choosing a comparison.
For diesel equipment, discuss FCS-27 compatibility and the product-specific treatment protocol. The intended fuel grade, current additive package, storage and dosing arrangement belong in that review.
Measure useful electrical output
Fuel per hour describes consumption. To assess efficiency, also record the load and electricity delivered. Rated capacity alone does not show the output during a trial.
- Record fuel consumed over the observation period using the agreed method.
- Record electrical energy delivered in kWh and the load profile.
- Track operating hours, starts, idle periods and unusual events.
- Keep fuel transfers, tank levels and measurement boundaries consistent.
- Compare fuel per kWh at matched operating conditions.
The Houston CAT 3512 reference
The published Houston record concerns a 1,000 kW CAT 3512 generator at 80% load. It describes three hours of baseline operation, three hours of conditioning at 1:1000 and a three-hour formal test at 1:2000.
The record reports 12% using the Caterpillar fuel sensor, 11% using a diesel gauge stick and 10.25% using a Flexim F601 ultrasonic meter. These remain three calculation routes within the same record. They are not independent tests or a guaranteed range for another generator.
Connect performance with service cost
Calculate the fuel cost of equivalent electrical output and include treatment, monitoring and implementation costs. For remote or essential-service operations, retain the service context: operating hours, interruptions and the output required by the user.
Fuel savings, maintenance costs, equipment availability and exhaust indicators are separate outcomes. Define any additional measurement at the start of the pilot so the final decision uses evidence appropriate to each claim.
Prepare a generator brief
Send the generator model and rating, typical load, run hours, fuel specification, tank arrangement and available meters. Include recent operating records and the question you want to answer. CM can then discuss the method, treatment protocol and review criteria.
Discuss a generator pilot
Share the application, operating context and technical question with CM.
Source material: CM Technologies 2026; CM Field Tests in Practice; US Test Summary (2018).
