Diesel Generator (DG) sets are widely used in hospitals, industries, IT parks, residential communities, commercial structures, manufacturing facilities, and construction sites to provide backup power. They provide a continuous power supply, but they also emit harmful emissions such as nitrogen Oxides (NOx), Particulate Matter (PM), Carbon Monoxide (CO), and Hydrocarbons (HC).
To improve air quality and comply with environmental regulations, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has introduced emission norms requiring all existing DG sets to be fitted with a retrofit emission control Device (RECD).
The RECD has been designed and built to dramatically reduce harmful emissions without replacing an entire engine, making it one of the most cost-effective options for ensuring Compliance with emissions standards.
Why Platino RECD?
Air pollution is one of India’s most significant environmental issues. Diesel generators are frequently employed during power outages. However, their continuous use results in high emissions that harm human health and the environment.
The most significant problems caused by DG emissions are:
- Poor air quality
- More respiratory illnesses
- Increased harmful emissions
- Smoke production
- Environmental pollution
- Regulatory non-compliance
Installing a Platino RECD can help solve these issues by reducing harmful emissions before they reach the air.
Benefits of RECD
- Reduces HC emissions
- Reduces Carbon Monoxide (CO)
- Lowers Particulate Matter (PM)
- Improves environmental Compliance
- Supports CPCB emission standards
- Improves the quality of air in workplaces
- Expands operational Compliance of current DG sets
- Cost-effective in comparison to repairing generators
Nowadays, RECD installation has become an important element for companies looking to establish sustainable operations while complying with government requirements.
How Does a RECD Work?
A retrofit Emission Control Device (RECD) is located on the exhaust lines of diesel generators. Instead of releasing exhaust gases into the air, the exhaust is routed through specially designed technology to reduce emissions.
The process of working typically involves these phases:
Step 1: Engine Generates Exhaust
During combustion, the diesel engine produces:
- Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)
- Carbon Monoxide (CO)
- Hydrocarbons (HC)
- Particulate Matter (PM)
The pollutants are absorbed in the exhaust system.
Step 2: Exhaust Enters the RECD
In the exhaust system, combustion gases are routed to the RECD unit.
Inside the RECD, special emission-reduction technology triggers chemical reactions that dramatically reduce harmful pollutants before gases exit the exhaust outlet.
Step 3: Emission Reduction
The RECD reduces:
- NOx
- Carbon Monoxide
- Hydrocarbons
- Particulate Matter
This results in lower-emission exhaust.
Step 4: Cleaner Exhaust Released
After treatment, the escaping air contains significantly fewer pollutants, helping industries comply with CPCB standards.
CPCB Guidelines for RECD
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has established emission guidelines for diesel generator sets to reduce air pollution across India.
The guidelines are focused on:
- Reduced NOx emissions
- Reduced PM emissions
- Improved quality of the ambient air; eliminating pollution caused by existing DG sets
According to CPCB rules, many older diesel generators operating in certain groups or areas must install a certified RECD to comply with emission standards.
CPCB RECD Requirements
The newly installed RECD must:
- Meet CPCB emission reduction requirements
- Be tested by a reputable agency.
- Demonstrate emission performance
- Be installed according to the predetermined guidelines
- Operate without compromising DG performance
Industries should ensure that the RECD manufacturer complies with the relevant CPCB specifications before installation.
Which DG Sets Need RECD?
Not every diesel generator requires an RECD. The requirements are based on a variety of aspects, including:
- DG capacity
- Manufacturing Year
- Emissions standards
- Local pollution control authority requirements
- CPCB regulations
RECD are commonly installed in:
- Industrial DG Sets
- Commercial Buildings
- Hospitals
- Hotels
- Educational Institutions
- Manufacturing Plants
- Data Centers
- IT Parks
- Residential Townships
- Government Buildings
- Construction Projects
Large diesel generators operating for extended periods typically benefit most from RECD installation.
Before installing, review the relevant CPCB and State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) guidelines to determine whether your DG set requires an RECD.
Best RECD Manufacturer in India
Choosing the correct RECD manufacturer is vital for long-term success and regulatory conformity.
A reputable manufacturer must offer:
➤ CPCB-compliant solutions
Products designed to meet all emission guidelines applicable to them.
➤ Proven emission reduction
Evidence of a reduction in NOx, CO, PM, and HC emissions.
➤ Engineering expertise
Strong experience in diesel emission control technology.
➤ Quality manufacturing
Quality materials specifically designed for industrial operations.
➤ Installation support
Professional installation with proper commissioning.
➤ After-sales service
Support for Maintenance and technical support throughout the entire lifecycle of the product.
Documentation
All technical documents, installation instructions, and compliance support.
When choosing a RECD manufacturer, take note of:
- Industry Experience
- Customer References
- Product quality
- Service network
- Technical assistance
- Compliance documentation
- Long-term stability
A trusted manufacturer will provide higher performance, greater regulatory certainty, and lower maintenance expenses.
RECD vs Scrubber
A lot of people confuse RECD with scrubbers. RECD, as a scrubber; however, both are created for distinct objectives.
| Feature | RECD | Scrubber |
| Primary Purpose | Reduce harmful DG emissions | Remove certain pollutants using liquid-based treatment |
| Installation | Installed on DG exhaust | Typically part of larger industrial emission systems |
| Maintenance | Comparatively lower | Generally higher |
| Space Requirement | Compact | Larger installation |
For diesel generators, RECD is a product specifically designed to reduce emissions while ensuring generator performance and Compliance with CPCB specifications.
RECD vs Other RECD Technologies
Different companies may have different RECD designs. However, important elements to consider are:
⭐ Emission Performance
Choose solutions with verified emission reduction performance.
⭐ Compliance
Verify that the product meets CPCB specifications.
⭐ Durability
Industries require sturdy construction.
⭐ Pressure Management
A well-designed RECD reduces the impact of generator operations.
⭐ Maintenance
Lower Maintenance means less operational downtime.
⭐ Technical Support
A reliable after-sales service is vital for long-term success.
Instead of focusing solely on the purchase price, companies should look at the total lifecycle value, reliability, Compliance, and service support.
CO vs PM – Understanding the Difference
A lot of people think Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Particulate Matter (PM) are the same thing, but they’re two completely different pollutants.
| Carbon Monoxide (CO) | Particulate Matter (PM) |
| Invisible gas | Tiny solid particles |
| Produced by incomplete combustion | Produced during diesel combustion |
| Difficult to detect without instruments | Often visible as smoke |
| Harmful when inhaled | Can enter deep into the lungs |
| Reduces oxygen transport in the body | Causes respiratory and cardiovascular issues |
▶ Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Carbon Monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas formed during incomplete combustion. At high concentrations, it can pose health hazards by impairing the blood’s ability to transport oxygen.
▶ Particulate Matter (PM)
Particulate Matter is made up of tiny particulates suspended in exhaust gas. Particulate matter can be inhaled, causing respiratory diseases and poor air quality.
A high-quality RECD can help reduce CO and PM emissions, resulting in more sustainable and safer operations.
Key Benefits of Installing an RECD
Organisations that have installed an RECD will reap a variety of environmental and operational benefits:
- Supports CPCB compliance
- Reduces NOx emissions
- Reduces PM emissions
- Reduces CO emissions
- Improves environmental sustainability
- Enhances workplace safety
- Helps ESG initiatives
- Extends usability of existing DG sets
- Avoids premature generator replacement
- Improves corporate environmental responsibility
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is RECD for a DG Set?
The retrofit Emission Control Device (RECD) is installed in the diesel engine’s exhaust system to reduce harmful pollutants such as NOx, PM, CO, and HC.
2. Is RECD required in India?
In accordance with the DG-established category, place of residence, and applicable CPCB and SPCB guidelines, the installation of an RECD may be required to comply with emission standards.
3. Does RECD affect generator performance?
A properly designed and installed RECD is designed to minimize emissions while ensuring the normal operation of the generator.
4. Which pollutants does RECD reduce?
RECD helps to lower:
- Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)
- Carbon Monoxide (CO)
- Hydrocarbons (HC)
- Particulate Matter (PM)
5. How long does an RECD last?
The lifespan depends on operating conditions, maintenance practices, and usage hours. Regular inspections help ensure long-term performance.
6. Can RECD be used on already existing DG sets?
Yes. RECD are designed as retrofit solutions for existing diesel generators.
Conclusion
As environmental regulations become more stringent, reducing diesel generator emissions is no longer an option for many companies. The retrofit emission control device (RECD) offers a practical and effective way to reduce harmful emissions, improve air quality, and ensure Compliance with CPCB standards.
Whether you run an office, a commercial complex, a hospital, or an industrial facility, investing in the best RECD solution can help protect the environment and extend the lifespan of your current DG sets.
Understanding how RECD operates, the relevant CPCB guidelines, and the distinctions between RECD and other methods of emission control helps organizations make informed choices that will ensure the long-term sustainability of RECD and Compliance with regulations.
