Diesel Generator for Mining Specifications
The figures below describe typical industry specifications for this class of equipment rather than a single fixed model. Use them to scope a requirement, then confirm exact figures against the supplied unit before purchase.
| Specification | Typical value |
|---|---|
| Common ratings | 20–2,000 kVA for mine site duty |
| Output voltage | 400 V 3-phase 50 Hz |
| Power factor | 0.8 lagging standard |
| Duty ratings | Prime, continuous (COP) or standby (ESP) |
| Fuel consumption | 0.25–0.30 L/kWh at 75% load |
| Optimal load band | 50–80% of rating |
| Motor starting allowance | Size for 6–7× FLC on direct-on-line starts |
| Enclosure | Open skid or acoustic canopy, 65–75 dB(A) at 7 m |
| Fuel tank | Base tank for 8–24 h running; bunded bulk storage separate |
| Control | Auto mains failure, auto start-stop, remote monitoring |
| Paralleling | Multiple sets synchronised for load sharing and redundancy |
| Service interval | 250–500 h oil and filter change |
What a Diesel Generator for Mining Is Used For
- Primary power for off-grid processing plants
- Standby supply where grid is unreliable
- Exploration camp and drilling programme power
- Dewatering pump supply during wet season
- Workshop and accommodation power
Maintenance Schedule
Most premature failures in this equipment class trace back to a missed routine check rather than a design fault. The intervals below are a practical starting schedule; adjust them to your duty cycle and the manufacturer manual.
| Interval | Task |
|---|---|
| Daily | Check oil and coolant levels, fuel level and any leaks; record running hours and load. |
| Weekly | Test standby sets under load, not on no-load. A set that starts but cannot take load has not been tested. |
| 250–500 h | Engine oil and filter change; air and fuel filter inspection. |
| Monthly | Drain water from the fuel-water separator; check battery condition and charger operation. |
| Annually | Coolant change, injector service, alternator insulation test and full load bank test. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I size a generator for a mine site?
Total the running load, then check the starting requirement of the largest motor separately. A direct-on-line start draws six to seven times full-load current, and that transient sets the minimum generator size far more often than the steady-state load does. Soft starters or variable-frequency drives cut the requirement substantially.
What happens if a generator runs lightly loaded?
Sustained running below about 30% load causes wet stacking, with unburnt fuel and carbon glazing the cylinder bores and fouling the exhaust. It progressively destroys the engine. Where load is genuinely low, use a smaller set, parallel multiple sets and shut some down, or apply a load bank.
How much fuel will a generator use?
Roughly 0.25–0.30 litres per kWh generated at 75% load. For a 500 kVA set running at 75%, that is around 100 litres per hour. Over a month of continuous running the fuel bill dwarfs the capital cost of the generator, which is why load management matters so much.
Is it better to run one large generator or several smaller ones?
Several smaller sets in parallel is usually better for a mine. Load varies through the shift, so you can run only what is needed and keep each set in its efficient band; you gain redundancy; and you can service one without shutting the site down. The trade-off is more complex synchronising controls.
Supply and Delivery Across Tanzania
Bart Mining supplies diesel generator for mining and related equipment to mining operations throughout Tanzania, with primary coverage of the Lake Victoria Goldfields (Mwanza, Kahama, Geita, Shinyanga and Bukombe), alongside the Lupa Goldfields around Chunya and Mbeya, and delivery nationwide from Dar es Salaam.
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Need a diesel generator for mining specified for your site?
Tell us your duty, depth or throughput and available power supply. We will come back with a specification and price, and flag anything on site that needs to change to make it work.