Diesel Fuel Conversion to Electrical Power

It depends on the efficiency of the generator and the % load. Here's something to get you started:

http://www.dieselserviceandsupply.com/Diesel_Fuel_Consumption.aspx

For thermal applications, following calculations indicate conversion factors:

GCV of diesel = 9450 kcal/ltr.

combustion efficiency of fuel = 0.7 - 0.9, depending on the type of burner used.

(1) For low oil pressure burners, it can be taken as 0.7

NCV of diesel = 9450 x 0.7 = 6615 kcal/ltr.

1 KWH = 860 kcal

1 ltr. of diesel= 6615/860 = 7.69 KW

Practically, electric heating can be achieved in closed atmosphere. But for other fuels, like diesel, gas and solid fuels, chimney is a must. Taking into consideration, 25% (apprx.) heat losses through chimney, efficiency will be 0.75.

Hence, 1 ltr. of diesel= (6615 x 0.75)/860 = 5.77 KW

(2) For high oil pressure burners, combustion efficiency can be taken as 0.9

NCV of diesel = 9450 x 0.9 = 8505 kcal/ltr.

1 ltr. of diesel= 8505/860 = 9.89 KW

Taking into consideration, 25% (apprx.) heat losses through chimney, efficiency will be 0.75.

Hence, 1 ltr. of diesel= (8505 x 0.9)/860 = 8.9 KW

Calorific value of diesel is 44 MJ/kg. Density is about 0.85 kg/ltr. Typical efficiency of diesel engine 35%, of alternator 90% (depending on size, bigger units generally better). So electric from 1 ltr = 44*0.85*0.35*0.9 = 11.78 MJ = 3.27 kWh.

Cheers........Codey