What causes a high current in diesel generators?

The causes of excessive current in diesel generators may be varied, and here are some main reasons summarized according to the search results:

1. Mechanical Failure: During operation, diesel generators may experience increased vibration due to an unstable base, excessive bearing clearance, or bent crankshaft, which can lead to excessive current. Additionally, imbalances in rotating components such as the rotor, coupling, gearbox, and drive wheels can also cause excessive current.

2. Insufficient Power : Insufficient power from diesel generators may be caused by excessive wear of components, poor lubrication, inadequate cooling, improper installation, and other reasons. For example, insufficient fuel supply or faults in the intake and exhaust systems can lead to insufficient power generation, which in turn can indirectly cause excessive current.

3. Motor Issues: If the diesel generator is used as a motor, the causes of excessive current may include motor aging due to prolonged use, excessive power supply voltage, improper assembly or excessive clearance after repair, insufficient stator winding turns, or incorrect wiring, etc.

4. Excessive Zero-Sequence Current: In certain specific power systems, if the zero-sequence current of the generator is too high, it may be due to excessive current in the neutral line, which could be related to the operating mode of the generator, load type, and third harmonic factors.

5. Overload Protection: If the diesel generator is overloaded, the protective circuit breaker will trip to prevent further damage. Overloading may be caused by excessive load that exceeds the power rating of the generator.

Please note that these causes are not exhaustive, and a specific problem may require professional diagnosis to determine. If you encounter excessive current in a diesel generator, it is recommended to shut down the machine for inspection and seek assistance from professional technicians in a timely manner.