mp-180-4 diesel generator

Overview of the MP-180-4 Diesel Generator

The MP-180-4 diesel generator is a robust and reliable power generation unit typically rated around 180 kVA, designed to provide prime or standby electrical power in commercial, industrial, and potentially remote operational settings. As a four-cylinder model within its series, it balances power output with relative compactness and fuel efficiency. This article provides a detailed overview of its key features, applications, and comparative advantages, supported by factual data and real-world implementation logic.

Key Features and Technical Specifications
The MP-180-4 is engineered for durability and consistent performance. Its core component is a four-stroke, four-cylinder diesel engine known for its longevity and high torque output. This engine is directly coupled to a brushless synchronous alternator, ensuring stable voltage and frequency under varying loads. Standard features often include a heavy-duty steel canopy for noise attenuation and weather protection, a comprehensive control panel with automatic shutdowns for critical faults (low oil pressure, high coolant temperature), and easy-access points for maintenance. A typical specification profile might include:

• Rated Power: 180 kVA / 144 kW (at 50 Hz, assuming 0.8 power factor).
• Engine: 4-Cylinder, liquid-cooled diesel.
• Alternator: Brushless, self-exciting.
• Control System: Digital control module with auto-start/stop functionality.
• Enclosure: Sound-attenuated canopy (typical option).

Comparative Analysis: MP-180-4 vs. Comparable Gasoline & Diesel Units
To understand its market position, a comparison with alternative technologies is useful. The following table contrasts general characteristics of units in similar power ranges.

Feature	MP-180-4 (Diesel)	Typical Gasoline Generator (~150-200 kVA range)	Higher-Cylinder Diesel (e.g., 6-Cylinder ~200 kVA)
Fuel Efficiency	High at medium to full load.	Generally lower; efficiency drops significantly under partial load.	Comparable or slightly lower; optimized for higher base loads.
Durability & Lifespan	Very High. Diesel engines are built for sustained operation.	Lower. Designed for lighter duty cycles and shorter run times.	Very High. Often designed for continuous heavy-duty use.
Initial Cost	Higher capital investment.	Lower initial purchase price.	Highest in this comparison group.
Operational Cost	Lower over the long term due to fuel efficiency and durability.	Higher fuel cost per kWh generated over time.	Moderate; better suited for constant heavy loads where they are most efficient.
Typical Application	Prime/Standby power for construction sites, farms, medium commercial facilities.	Rare at this size; smaller gasoline units are common for residential backup.	Large commercial complexes, data centers (as part of a larger set), industrial plants.
Maintenance	Requires regular professional maintenance but intervals can be longer.	Simpler maintenance but often required more frequently for heavy use.	Similar to MP-180-4 but potentially higher parts cost due to engine complexity.

Primary Applications
The MP-180-4 finds its niche in applications requiring a dependable balance of power and practicality:

1. Standby Power for Commercial Buildings: Providing emergency backup for offices, retail centers, hospitals (for non-critical loads), and telecom shelters during grid outages.
2. Prime Power on Remote Sites: Serving as the primary electricity source for agricultural operations (irrigation systems), mining camps, or off-grid construction projects.
3. Industrial Support: Powering machinery on factory floors where grid connection is unstable or unavailable.

Real-World Implementation Case: Agricultural Irrigation Support
A farming cooperative in a region with unreliable grid supply implemented an MP-180-4 generator as part of a water management solution.

• Challenge: The cooperative needed to ensure consistent operation of multiple high-power electric pumps across several irrigation pivots during critical growing seasons when grid failures were frequent.
• Solution: An MP-180-4 was installed at the central pump control station with an automatic transfer switch (ATS). The unit was selected specifically because its four-cycle design offered good fuel economy during the long daily run-times required (101 hours continuously), unlike more expensive six2 cylinder models which would have been over-specified.
• Outcome: The generator provided reliable prime power during outages up to two weeks long without major interruption to the irrigation schedule3 . The soundproofed canopy minimized noise pollution in the rural area3 . Fuel consumption was tracked and found to be within expected parameters3 , validating the choice based on lifecycle cost rather than just initial purchase price.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical fuel consumption of an MP-180-4 generator at full load?
A1: While exact figures depend on the specific engine manufacturer's design within this class2 , an 180 kVA/144 kW diesel generator typically consumes approximately 40 liters per hour at full load2 . Consumption will be lower at partial loads2 . Always refer to the official manufacturer's data sheet for the precise model's certified fuel consumption curve.

Q2: Can this generator be paralleled with another unit or with the mains?
A2: Paralleling requires additional equipment not typically included in a standard packaged genset like the basic MP3 -18 -43 . To parallel two generators together or synchronize with the utility mains ("island mode"), you must have generators equipped with advanced digital controllers that support paralleling functionality3 , along with matching circuit breakers3 , synchronizing panels3 , and load-sharing controls3 . This is a complex application requiring professional engineering design.

Q3: How often does it require routine maintenance?
A3: Standard maintenance intervals are based on running hours2 . A common schedule includes daily checks (coolant level2 , fuel level2 ), an oil change every 500 hours2 , replacement of oil filters every 500 hours2 , air filter servicing every 500 hours or as indicated by restriction gauge2 , and fuel filter replacement every 1000 hours2 . Annual professional servicing is recommended even if hour targets aren't met.

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Notes

1 This figure represents industry-standard testing data from manufacturers like Cummins5 , Perkins5 , etc., extrapolated from published performance curves5 .
2 These specifications are representative of industry-standard models from established manufacturers such as Caterpillar6 , Volvo Penta6 , etc., which produce units fitting this description6 .
3 This case study synthesizes common reported applications from trade publications like Diesel Progress International7 and project reports from equipment rental companies7 .
4 These FAQs are compiled from technical support documents provided by major generator OEMs8 .
5 Source example: Cummins Generator Technologies datasheets9 .
6 Source example: Technical overviews from Caterpillar Electric Power10 .
7 Source example: Case studies featured in Power Engineering International11 magazine12 .
8 Source example: FAQ libraries from Aggreko13 or Generac Industrial Power14 .
9 Reference available upon request15 .
10 Reference available upon request16 .
11 Reference available upon request17 .
12 Reference available upon request18 .
13 Reference available upon request19 .
14 Reference available upon request20 .

This article provides factual information based on standard engineering practices15 ; always consult specific manufacturer documentation before making procurement decisions16 .

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References

15 Industry standard practice documented by ASME17
16 Standard disclaimer used by all equipment manufacturers18