DG set pollution control RECD systemBuying a is an important technical decision for any organization operating a diesel generator. With several products and suppliers available in the market, it can be difficult to distinguish a properly documented RECD from a product making broad or unsupported compliance claims. The difference matters. A genuine RECD should have identifiable product information, a documented application range, appropriate testing or certification information, and technical suitability for the particular generator. A product should not be considered compliant simply because a brochure or salesperson uses the words “CPCB approved.”

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has published a specific system and procedure for emission-compliance testing of Retrofit Emission Control Devices for diesel power-generating set engines up to 800 kW gross mechanical power. The procedure was revised on July 24, 2023 and establishes a technical framework for testing and certification. Understanding how to verify an RECD before purchase can help generator owners avoid unsuitable equipment and unnecessary expenses.

What Is a Genuine RECD?

A genuine RECD is not simply an exhaust component marketed for pollution control.

A technically credible product should be identifiable through details such as:

Manufacturer name
RECD model
Product or part number
Applicable engine range
Applicable power range
Relevant certification or test documentation
Installation requirements
Maintenance instructions

These details allow the buyer to determine whether the product being quoted is actually the product supported by the available technical documentation.

A supplier should also be able to explain how the proposed device relates to the particular DG-set engine.

Why Product Identification Matters

One of the easiest ways to identify a questionable offer is the absence of specific product information.

For example, a quotation may simply state:

“CPCB-approved RECD for diesel generator.”

That description is too general for a technical purchase.

A better quotation should identify:

Manufacturer → Product/Model → Part Number → Engine Application → Power Range

This creates a traceable connection between the equipment and its supporting documents.

CPCB's Role in RECD Evaluation

CPCB's published RECD procedure provides a framework for emission-compliance testing for eligible diesel genset engines up to 800 kW gross mechanical power. It includes technical requirements and procedures for evaluating retrofit emission-control devices.

CPCB has also identified itself as the nodal agency for relevant genset emission-compliance activities, including coordination relating to type approvals and conformity-of-production testing.

This makes official documentation an important part of the purchasing process.

However, buyers should distinguish between:

A CPCB technical framework
A manufacturer's certification/test documentation
A specific product's applicability
A general marketing statement

These are not interchangeable.

Genuine Product vs Marketing Claim

Consider two suppliers.

Supplier A

Provides:

Exact RECD model
Product datasheet
Engine-power range
Certification/test documentation
Installation requirements
Warranty
Maintenance instructions

Supplier B

Provides:

“CPCB-approved RECD”
A generic photograph
A price
No exact model
No supporting certification information

Supplier A provides substantially more information for technical verification.

The difference is not necessarily about which company is larger. It is about whether the specific product can be properly identified and evaluated.

Check the Exact Engine Application

A genuine RECD still needs to be suitable for the particular engine.

Before purchasing, collect:

Engine manufacturer
Engine model
Engine serial number
Gross mechanical power
Rated speed
Relevant engine phase
Existing exhaust configuration

CPCB's RECD procedure covers diesel genset engines up to 800 kW gross mechanical power, so the engine's actual technical specifications should be established before selecting a retrofit device.

Do not assume that one RECD can be installed on every diesel generator.

Why Engine Model Is More Important Than a Generic DG Rating

Generator owners frequently identify equipment by electrical capacity, such as:

125 kVA
250 kVA
500 kVA
750 kVA

But RECD selection requires more detailed engine information.

Two generators with similar electrical ratings can have different:

Engine manufacturers
Engine models
Exhaust characteristics
Operating conditions
Emission specifications

Therefore, the engine nameplate and technical documentation should be supplied to the RECD manufacturer or installer.

Examine Certification and Test Documentation

Documentation is one of the strongest ways to distinguish a genuine product from an unsupported claim.

Ask the supplier for the relevant documents showing:

Product manufacturer
RECD model
Engine model or applicable engine family
Rated power
Applicable power range
Certification or testing agency
Test procedure
Test results or certificate reference

CPCB's published testing framework contains detailed information requirements concerning the base engine, RECD family/type/model, identifying part numbers, test procedures, performance results, and engine types for which a device is qualified.

This illustrates why a generic certificate unrelated to the quoted product should not be treated as sufficient evidence.

Beware of Generic Certificates

A supplier may show a certificate containing a manufacturer name but not clearly identify the product being offered.

Ask:

Does this certificate cover the exact RECD model being quoted?

Then check:

Model number
Product family
Part number
Engine application
Power range

If these details do not match, request clarification before proceeding.

Check the Applicable Power Range

RECD applicability can differ according to engine power.

CPCB's framework is designed for diesel genset engines up to 800 kW gross mechanical power, while specific product documentation may cover narrower engine-power ranges.

Therefore, do not select a product simply because your generator falls somewhere within the overall CPCB RECD scope.

The specific product must be evaluated against its own documented application.

Genuine Does Not Mean “Universal”

One of the most misleading ideas in the market is that a single RECD can automatically work with every DG set.

Diesel engines are not identical.

Differences in engine design, exhaust temperature, exhaust flow, power, operating load, and emissions can influence retrofit suitability.

A supplier that asks for detailed engine information is generally taking a more technically responsible approach than one that immediately offers a universal product without assessing the generator.

Look at the Physical Product

Product identification should continue beyond paperwork.

When possible, verify that the delivered equipment has identifiable markings such as:

Manufacturer
Model
Serial number
Product identification
Relevant rating information

The physical product should correspond with the documentation and purchase order.

This is especially important for facilities operating multiple generators.

Installation Is Part of Compliance

A genuine RECD can still be installed incorrectly.

The installation should consider:

Exhaust pipe diameter
Exhaust routing
Mounting arrangement
Structural support
Sensor location
Controller location
Electrical connections
Maintenance access
Exhaust back pressure

CPCB's RECD procedure includes technical evaluation of exhaust back pressure as part of the testing framework.

Therefore, product authenticity alone does not guarantee that a particular installation is technically correct.

Why Exhaust Back Pressure Should Be Checked

Adding an emission-control device to an exhaust line changes the exhaust arrangement.

If the installation introduces excessive resistance, it can affect engine operation.

The RECD should therefore be selected and installed with consideration of the engine manufacturer's applicable requirements.

Ask the installer:

What is the expected back pressure after installation?

The answer should be based on engineering information rather than guesswork.

Warning Signs Before You Place an Order

Be cautious when a supplier:

Does Not Ask for Engine Details

An RECD recommendation should be based on the actual generator application.

Uses Only the Phrase “CPCB Approved”

A broad claim should be supported with product-specific information.

Cannot Provide a Model Number

A technical product should be identifiable.

Avoids Certification Questions

A supplier should be able to explain the documentation supporting its product.

Promises Universal Compatibility

Such claims deserve careful technical verification.

Gives a Price Without Defining Scope

Find out whether the price includes installation, exhaust modification, controller, sensors, commissioning, and warranty.

Has No Clear Maintenance Plan

An emission-control system should have defined maintenance requirements.

How to Verify an RECD Before Buying

Use this six-step process.

Step 1: Identify the Generator

Record the engine manufacturer, model and gross mechanical power.

Step 2: Obtain the Exact RECD Model

Do not accept only a product category.

Step 3: Request Supporting Documentation

Ask for certification/test information and the technical datasheet.

Step 4: Match the Application

Verify that the product's documented application covers your engine.

Step 5: Conduct an Installation Assessment

Check the exhaust system, space, mounting and back-pressure considerations.

Step 6: Maintain the Records

Keep copies of the quotation, product documentation, certification information, installation report and warranty.

What Is an RECD Device as per CPCB Norms?

RECD device as per CPCB normsWhen buyers search for an , they should understand that the phrase itself does not identify a specific certified product.

The important task is to establish whether the exact device being offered is supported by the appropriate documentation and applicable testing/certification information.

CPCB's procedure identifies detailed product and engine information as part of RECD evaluation, including the RECD model/type, identifying part numbers, base engine information, rated power and engine types for which the device is qualified.

Therefore, buyers should ask for product-specific evidence rather than relying on general promotional wording.

Do Not Confuse Certification With Site Compliance

Another important distinction is between product certification and site-level compliance.

A product may have supporting certification documentation, but the generator owner still needs to meet the requirements applicable to the particular installation.

Those requirements may depend on:

Generator type
Installation
Operating conditions
Applicable environmental standards
State-level requirements
Consent conditions
Local regulatory directions

Therefore, product selection should be followed by an assessment of the requirements applicable to the actual site.

Keep a Complete RECD File

For every generator, maintain a dedicated record containing:

DG-Set Information

Engine model
Serial number
Gross mechanical power
Generator rating

RECD Information

Manufacturer
Model
Part number
Applicable range

Certification

Certificate/test reference
Certification agency
Supporting documentation

Installation

Site survey
Installation report
Commissioning report

Maintenance

Inspection records
Service records
Replacement components

Regulatory

Applicable CPCB information
State-level requirements
Relevant communications or approvals where applicable

This makes future verification considerably easier.

Why Cheap and Genuine Are Not Opposites

A genuine product does not necessarily have to be the most expensive product.

valued with technical verificationThe objective should be .

Compare:

Product suitability
Documentation
Installation
Warranty
Maintenance
Service
Total cost

A low-cost product may be attractive initially, but if important services or documentation are excluded, the overall project can become more expensive.

Similarly, a higher-priced quotation should not automatically be considered better.

The evidence and technical scope should determine the decision.

Questions to Ask the Supplier

Before issuing a purchase order, ask:

1. What is the exact RECD model?

2. What engine models and power ranges does it cover?

3. Can you provide the relevant certification/test documentation?

4. Which certification agency is associated with the documentation?

5. Does the documentation correspond to the quoted product?

6. What is included in the installation scope?

7. Are controllers and sensors included?

8. What exhaust modifications are required?

9. What maintenance does the system require?

10. What warranty and technical support are provided?

Written answers are preferable to verbal assurances.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I know whether an RECD is genuine?

Start by verifying the exact manufacturer, model, part number, applicable engine range and supporting certification/test documentation. Then compare those details with the product being offered.

Does a “CPCB approved” label guarantee compliance?

Not by itself. The exact product, application, documentation, installation and current applicable requirements should be verified.

Can a genuine RECD be unsuitable for my generator?

Yes. Product certification or documentation does not mean the device is suitable for every engine. The documented application range must match the particular generator.

Is installation important after purchasing a genuine product?

Yes. Correct installation, exhaust configuration and maintenance remain important.

What should I do if a supplier refuses to provide certification documents?

Ask for the exact product identification and supporting documentation before making a purchase. If the supplier cannot provide adequate information, consider obtaining another technically documented quotation.

Conclusion

DG set pollution control RECD systemA genuine should be identifiable, technically appropriate, properly documented and suitable for the specific generator application. The safest way to evaluate an RECD is to move beyond marketing claims. Verify the manufacturer, exact model, part number, engine range, gross mechanical power range, certification/test documentation and installation requirements. Before ordering, request written documentation, compare the exact product against its certified or documented application, assess the installation requirements, and retain all records. That approach can help generator owners avoid unsupported claims, unsuitable products and unnecessary procurement risks while making a more informed emission-control investment.

DG Set Pollution Control RECD System - Genuine vs Non-Compliant Products

Protect Your Investment — Learn What Sets Genuine Pollution Control Systems Apart from Non-Compliant Copies