Cooling problems can limit generator output even when the engine and alternator are correctly sized. For hot factories, mines, containerized packages, and generator rooms with restricted airflow, the RFQ should state ambient temperature, altitude, airflow restrictions, radiator arrangement, and maintenance access.
In practice
The supplier needs site conditions to select or confirm the cooling arrangement. A standard radiator may be suitable for many projects, but high ambient temperature, altitude, dust, enclosed rooms, or long hot-air ducting can change the package requirements.
Cooling points to review
| Cooling factor | RFQ detail | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Ambient temperature | Maximum site temperature | Confirms radiator basis |
| Altitude | Installation elevation | Affects engine and cooling performance |
| Airflow | Intake and discharge path | Prevents hot-air recirculation |
| Dust | Dust level and cleaning plan | Protects radiator efficiency |
| Remote radiator | Needed or not needed | Solves difficult room layouts |
Details to confirm before quotation
- Maximum ambient temperature and altitude at the installation site.
- Indoor room, outdoor canopy, containerized package, or open installation.
- Cooling air intake area, hot-air discharge path, and duct length if known.
- Dust, sand, fiber, or other radiator fouling risks.
- Required running profile: standby, prime, long-hour operation, or frequent starts.
- Maintenance access for radiator cleaning, fan guards, belts, and coolant service.
Common configuration mistakes
- Using a standard room layout without checking hot-air recirculation.
- Ignoring altitude and high ambient temperature in the same project.
- Adding ducting after delivery without reviewing fan pressure limits.
- Choosing a silent enclosure without confirming intake and discharge clearance.
- Forgetting radiator cleaning access on dusty industrial sites.
Documents to request
Request the cooling system description, radiator basis, outline drawing, airflow direction, maintenance clearance notes, coolant service points, and factory test record. For difficult rooms, provide the room layout and ask whether a remote radiator or duct design review is needed.
Useful internal references
- 1400 kW Cummins diesel genset package
- Remote radiator selection notes
- Generator room ventilation checks
Common questions
Is high ambient temperature a quotation detail?
Yes. The supplier should know the maximum site temperature before confirming the cooling basis.
When is a remote radiator useful?
It can help when a generator room has poor airflow or no practical hot-air discharge route.
Does a silent canopy reduce cooling capacity?
The canopy must be designed with enough air intake and discharge area. Noise reduction should not block cooling airflow.
Should altitude be stated?
Yes. Altitude can affect engine performance and cooling, so it should be included in the RFQ.
What should dusty sites request?
Dusty sites should discuss radiator access, cleaning frequency, filters where applicable, and service clearance.
Before requesting a quotation
Cooling should be checked before the generator package is finalized. State temperature, altitude, airflow path, enclosure type, dust level, and maintenance access so the offer matches the site.