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Generator Wet Stacking: What It Is and How to Avoid It

Wet stacking happens when a diesel engine runs at a very light load for long periods. The engine does not get hot enough to burn all the fuel, so unburnt fuel and soot build up in the exhaust and engine.

Industrial diesel generator set in an outdoor enclosure
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Signs

  • Black, oily residue at the exhaust outlet
  • Oil or fuel dripping from the exhaust
  • Rising oil consumption and smoky running
  • A set that struggles when the load finally rises

Causes

  • A generator that is much larger than the real load
  • Long idle runs with almost no load
  • Short test runs that never bring the engine to temperature
  • Poor injector condition

Fixes

  • Run the set under a higher load for a period, using a load bank if needed
  • Right-size the generator to the real load
  • Use two smaller sets that share load, so each runs at a healthier level
  • Service injectors and the fuel system

Prevention

  • Size the set so typical load is roughly half to three-quarters of its rating
  • Do not leave a set idling for long when it is not needed
  • Schedule periodic load tests for standby sets

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a bigger generator always safer?

No. A set that is far larger than the load runs lightly loaded, wastes fuel and can wet stack. Size to the real load.

What is a load bank?

An external device that places a controlled electrical load on a generator so it can be tested and brought up to working temperature.

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