An integrated assembly comprising a diesel engine, a generator, and various auxiliary components-such as the base frame, canopy, sound attenuation systems, control systems, circuit breakers, jacket water heaters, and starting systems-is known as a "generator set."
Standard Generator Sets
Standard generator sets are widely used in general indoor installations. They primarily consist of a diesel engine, generator, control system, base frame, vibration isolation mounts, cooling system, fuel supply system, and output protection switch.
Protective Generator Sets
Protective generator sets are designed for outdoor locations where there are no specific noise control requirements. They mainly comprise a standard generator set, a protective enclosure, and an exhaust system. Since the enclosure lacks noise-reduction features-requiring only adequate ventilation and protection against rain and snow-these units are compact and cost-effective. Ventilation is achieved by opening doors or windows during operation. These units can be used individually or in parallel; parallel operation is particularly suitable for applications involving significant load fluctuations, high reliability requirements for continuous operation, and a need for cost-efficiency, such as powering oilfield drilling rigs.
Soundproof Generator Sets
Soundproof generator sets are widely used in outdoor or indoor locations requiring noise control and environmental protection. They primarily consist of a standard generator set, a soundproof enclosure, and noise-reduction systems for air intake/exhaust and engine exhaust. Key features include sound-insulating and sound-absorbing layers within the enclosure, noise-attenuating air intake and exhaust ducts, and a combination of industrial- and residential-grade silencers to reduce high-frequency and low-frequency noise, respectively. Standard soundproof units typically operate at noise levels of 78–85 dB(A), while "super-silent" (ultra-quiet) units operate at 70–78 dB(A). Super-silent units achieve lower noise levels through stricter control measures applied to the standard soundproof design, such as the use of labyrinth-style air intake and exhaust ducts.
Super-silent units generally have larger physical dimensions and significantly higher manufacturing costs compared to standard soundproof units. Operation, maintenance, and servicing for both soundproof and super-silent units are typically performed from outside the enclosure.
Outdoor Power Stations
Low-noise shelter-based and containerized power stations are typically designed for outdoor locations with specific environmental protection requirements. They can be deployed directly outdoors, eliminating the need to construct a dedicated equipment room, while offering high mobility and a short lead time from delivery to operation. These units generally operate within a noise range of 75–85 dB(A), and their design allows for on-site operation, maintenance, and servicing within the shelter or container.
Vehicle-Mounted Mobile Power Stations
Vehicle-mounted power stations are widely used in sectors such as telecommunications, television broadcasting, highway operations, emergency response, power supply, and the military-areas that demand rapid deployment, high mobility, and reliable emergency power. The generator unit is installed within the vehicle's cargo area and can be equipped with features such as electric cable winches, multi-channel output sockets, and mechanical (or hydraulic) stabilizing legs; they also facilitate easy parallel operation of multiple units. These mobile power stations typically operate within a noise range of 70–80 dB(A).
