A device converting mechanical energy into electrical energy is known as a generator. This energy can be stored in a battery or it can also be directly supplied to the lines of homes or industries during a power outage. They are useful devices in places where electricity is a huge problem. For example, you need to use a generator in remote places to start your construction project. On the other part, you can use a portable generator in your house for power backup.
The Basic Concept Of A Generator
The basic concept of generators is to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. It works with the help of electromagnetic induction. According to this principle, a wire in motion is moved next to a magnet. This concept was discovered by Michael Faraday in 1831 when he moved a magnet through a loop of wire very fast. He noticed that electrical energy was produced.
The movement causes a difference in voltage at the two ends of the conductor and it is responsible for the electric charge flow. As a result, electrical energy is produced from mechanical energy. This is the basic concept of a generator.
The Various Parts Of A Generator
There are many different parts in generators that are used to produce electrical energy from mechanical energy. They work together to produce electricity which is consumed by homes, industries, etc. These parts are:
Frame – This is the protective encasing of all the moving and electrical parts. Its main function is to protect the generator from moisture and dirt.
Rotating shaft – It is the connector between the motor of the engine (propeller in the wind or water-generated generators) and the armature which spins inside the stator.
Stator – A fixed magnetic field that has large copper windings.
Armature – It is responsible for creating electromagnetic induction by a spinning motion inside the stator.
Field windings – It is very simply put a coil that creates a magnetic field. The current flows inside this coil.
Commutator – Electricity is collected through a conductor and it is this Commutator that is responsible.
Brush assembly – The rubbing action of this part sends the electrical current out.
Types Of Generators
Generators are classified depending on the type of electrical energy that they produce. The electrical energy produced can either be alternating current or direct current. Thus the two types of generators are:
AC generators – They are generally known as single-phase generators. Their limit is 25kW.
DC generators – This is again subdivided into three categories, such as stun, series and compound wound. The first category is used in batteries, the second in street lights and the third is in general use for power backup systems.
The Applications Of Generators
The applications of generators are many. They are the main source of power for many homes, offices, and industries in many towns where electricity is a big problem. The smaller generators are very much suitable for residential purposes where the consumption of electricity is minuscule. It is even sufficient for small offices. While it is absolutely true that bigger industries require heavy-duty generators to serve their power needs.
Generators are indispensable at construction sites where there is no electricity to provide the power that is required in the construction process. Modern generators are very fuel-efficient and thus they are suitable for a number of purposes.
Features Of Generators
Features are many in generators which render them as one of the most useful discoveries of modern man. The basest features of a generator are:
Power – They have a wide range of power output with which both high and low power requirements are fulfilled.
Fuel – Various types of fuels are used in generators. Generators can be powered by petrol, diesel, LPG, and natural gas.
Their portability- Their portable nature makes them very handy. They are fitted on wheels and you can move such portable units from one place to another with their handles. You can even use such generators for your camping and outdoor activities.
Noise – Today’s generators are insulated, and they can reduce noise pollution.
With this, we can conclude that generators are indeed very handy devices that have made life easier and more convenient. You can use a portable one in your home as a power backup system.
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