You need used diesel generators matched to your duty, your voltage and your site, then installed and supported properly.
Matching the Generator to the Job
We match used generators to duty before we talk price. USP&E engineers check ratings, load profile and site conditions so the set you buy is the set you need. USP&E is a full-service EPC and O&M contractor, not a broker.
Understand the Rating
Diesel generators carry different ratings for standby, prime and continuous duty. Standby ratings assume limited running during outages; prime ratings allow variable load for longer hours; continuous ratings cover steady output with no time limit. Running a set beyond its rated duty shortens its life and can void any support terms.
USP&E reviews how many hours you expect to run, how load varies and whether the set is backup or main supply, then shortlists generators with the right rating.
Voltage, Frequency and Site Conditions
Voltage and frequency must match your network, whether 50 Hz or 60 Hz, low or medium voltage. Altitude and heat reduce output, so a set may need to be larger than the nameplate suggests. Enclosure, noise limits and fuel storage also shape the choice.
For buyers comparing makes, see used Caterpillar generators. Multi-unit buyers can use wholesale diesel generators for multi-unit buys.
Industrial Applications
Used diesel generators serve mines, factories, hospitals, telecom sites, construction projects and data centre standby systems. Each has its own priorities, from continuous duty in a mine to fast, reliable starts in a hospital. USP&E has supplied and installed sets for all of these.
Browse used diesel generators for sale to see current stock, or ask for a shortlist matched to your duty.
USP&E Offices for Used Generator Buyers
Most used diesel generators enquiries from Africa start in Johannesburg (22 Kildoon Rd, Bryanston); Cape Town (31 Brickfield Road, Woodstock) adds port-side logistics and project controls. Send your duty profile to the Cape Town or Colorado Springs team for a rating-matched shortlist. London (162-168 Regent Street) supports funders and offtakers, Wuxi (No. 1, Ningzhou Road, Wuxi) handles China-sourced packages, and our US teams in Colorado Springs (1755 Telstar Dr, Suite 300) and Knoxville (800 S Gay St, Suite 700) cover inspection and reman work. Regions served: USA | AFRICA | UK | UAE | CHINA. USP&E has delivered 150+ power projects in 45+ countries, with 25,000 MW contracted since 2002, and is ISO 9001 and ISO 45001 certified.
Generator Supply Record
You want generators from a company that has put them to work. These projects show that.
- USP&E supplied 28 Cummins KTA50 containerised diesel gensets, 1,275 kVA each, for Perseus Mining’s Nyanzaga Gold Project in Tanzania.
- Barrick Gold, Mali: USP&E refurbished and supported a 104 MW mining power station. Read the case study.
- Resolute Mining, Syama, Mali: USP&E installed and operated a 30 MW Caterpillar power station from 2007 to 2010. Read the case study.
Your Plan
Your 3-step plan: 1. Tell us the duty, load and site. 2. Receive used diesel generators matched to rating and voltage. 3. Install and maintain with USP&E.
- Define standby, prime or continuous duty.
- Confirm voltage, frequency, altitude and temperature.
- Shortlist rating-matched used generators.
- Review test reports and agree terms.
- Install, commission and schedule maintenance.
Resources
EPC · O&M · About USP&E · Case studies · Contact · Inventory · Diesel generator inventory.
FAQ: Used diesel generators
What is the difference between standby and prime ratings?
USP&E explains that standby ratings assume limited running during outages, prime ratings allow variable load for longer hours, and continuous ratings cover steady output without a time limit. Choosing the right rating protects engine life and reliability.
Do altitude and heat affect a used generator?
Yes. USP&E accounts for altitude and high ambient temperature, which reduce available output. A set may need to be larger than its nameplate suggests to deliver the load you need on site.
Can USP&E supply 50 Hz and 60 Hz generators?
Yes. USP&E supplies used diesel generators for both 50 Hz and 60 Hz systems at low and medium voltage. The shortlist is matched to your network so the set connects without costly conversion.
Which industries use USP&E used generators?
USP&E supplies used diesel generators to mines, factories, hospitals, telecom operators, construction projects and data centre standby systems. Each application is assessed for duty, starting reliability and site conditions.
Is USP&E a broker?
No. USP&E is a full-service EPC and O&M contractor, not a broker. We test, supply, install and maintain the generators we sell, and remain responsible for their performance after installation.
Has USP&E supplied large diesel fleets?
Yes. USP&E supplied 28 Cummins KTA50 containerised diesel gensets, 1,275 kVA each, for Perseus Mining’s Nyanzaga Gold Project in Tanzania, and installed and operated a 30 MW Caterpillar station for Resolute Mining.
Which offices support used generator buyers?
USP&E supports buyers from Johannesburg and Cape Town in South Africa, Colorado Springs and Knoxville in the USA, London for structured deals and Wuxi for China supply chain. Inspection is arranged where the set is located.
How quickly can I get a shortlist?
USP&E prepares a shortlist once you share duty, load, voltage and site details. An engineer replies with matched sets or questions, and providing altitude and temperature data early avoids resizing later.
Take the Next Step With USP&E
With used diesel generators handled properly, your team stops firefighting and starts planning. Leave it to chance and every delay lands on your desk. Speak to a USP&E engineer on +27 10 822 2324 or at info@uspeglobal.com, and check current inventory.
Powering Possibility. Built for the Frontier.