RECD for DG set brands is a common source of confusion. Does a Kirloskar set need a different device from a Cummins or a Mahindra Powerol? In most cases the certification does not depend on the brand. It depends on your engine's power rating and emission phase. Here is what to check, whichever brand you run.
At a glance
Certification: CPCB certifies RECDs by kW range and Phase I or II, not by genset brand.
What to check: the gross kW and the phase on your engine data plate.
Brand factors: warranty terms, OEM service support and the engine's back-pressure limit.
How RECD approval works
CPCB's list of certified RECD manufacturers shows, for each vendor, the kW range of in-use engines covered, whether the device applies to Phase I or Phase II engines, and the certification agency, and it says the kW rating is checked against the data plates on the engine and DG set. There is no brand column.
Some boards also accept an equivalent rating. Karnataka's 2023 notification considers a device suitable if the rated power or swept volume of the test engine is within 25% of your engine's.
What to check on your DG set
Check | Why it matters | Where to find it |
|---|---|---|
Gross kW | Match it to the kW range on the device's certificate | Engine data plate |
Phase I or II | The certificate applies to one phase | Data plate or emission label |
Year of manufacture | Boards often target sets over five years old | Genset nameplate |
Back-pressure limit | The device must stay within the engine maker's limit | Engine manual or OEM |
Warranty status | A modification can raise questions with the OEM | Warranty card or service contract |
Where the brand does matter
Common DG engine brands in India include Kirloskar, Cummins, Mahindra Powerol, Ashok Leyland, Perkins and Caterpillar. The brand does not change the certificate, but it affects three practical points:
OEM support: some OEMs offer or endorse RECD solutions through their service networks. Ask yours whether it has a preferred certified device for your model.
Warranty: terms differ between makers. If your set is under warranty or a service contract, get the OEM's position in writing before installation.
Service: confirm who services the set and the device after fitment, and agree an AMC.
Our guide on RECD fuel use and warranty explains back-pressure in more detail.
Steps to get it right
Photograph the engine and genset data plates.
Match the gross kW and phase to the device certificate.
Check warranty and service terms with your OEM.
Book a site survey to check the exhaust layout.
Keep the certificate, installation record and test report on file.
FAQs
Do I need a brand-specific RECD?
No. Certification is by kW range and engine phase, so check that the certificate covers your set.
Can an RECD be fitted to a Mahindra Powerol or Kirloskar set?
Yes, if the certificate covers the set's kW range and phase. Confirm with the vendor and your OEM.
Will my OEM still service the set?
That depends on the OEM's terms, so ask in writing.
Talk to Novorbis about RECD for your DG set. Novorbis Itus is on the CPCB RECD vendor list (as of 30-06-2026). Share your brand, model, kW rating and year of manufacture, and we will confirm the right device.
