Profile
Settings
Refer your friends
Sign out
An AC generator is a device that converts mechanical energy to electrical energy. The input supply of an AC generator is mechanical energy. This is supplied by combustion engines, gas turbines, and steam turbines. The output energy is alternating electrical power. It is in the form of alternating voltage and current.
Two Types Of AC Generators
The principle of an AC generator states that an alternating current (AC) produces a voltage that is the sum of the voltages produced by the individual AC generators. Therefore, connecting your AC generators in series is essential for producing the desired voltage.
The purpose of an AC generator is to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. This is achieved by using a rotating magnet inside a stationary coil of wire. The magnetic field created by the rotating magnet coils induces a current in the wire. This current is then used to power a device or lamp.
Generally, there are two types of AC generators: the single-phase AC generator and the three-phase AC generator.
The difference between ac generator types is the number of armatures used to make the generator.
Single Phase AC Generator
It uses electromagnetic induction to convert mechanical power to one-phase electric power.
The parts of the single-phase AC generator are the magnetic field system, armature winding, yoke and armature core.
Three Phase AC Generator
The Three-Phase AC generator works on the concept of EMI (electromagnetic induction). When the magnetic flux linked to a conductor or coil is changed, an EMF is induced in the conductor or coil. It has three armatures. Three-phase AC generators are of two types:
Delta connection three-phase AC generator
Eye connection three-phase AC generator
Types Of AC Generators based on Speed
AC generators can be classified based on the speed of rotation. These are smooth cylindrical types and salient pole types. Their use is dependent on the application or demand.
For high-speed rotation, a smooth cylindrical type is used.
For low speed, a salient pole type is available.
Smooth Cylindrical Type
They are also called projected pole type generators.
They are used at speeds of 125-500 RPM.
They have a small axial length, no uniform air gap, and a large diameter.
Their damper windings are separate.
Salient Pole Type
They are also called non-projected/ non-salient type generators.
They are used at speeds of 150 – 300 RPM.
Their damper windings are not separate.
They have a long axial length, strong prime mover, and small diameter.
Structure Of AC Generator
AC generators consist of several parts that work together to produce electricity. The following is a brief explanation of the structure of an AC generator, each part, and its function:
The stator is a coil of wire wound around a central shaft. It creates magnetic fields that generate electricity.
The rotor is similar to a windmill and turns as it receives power from the stator. This movement causes the flux linkage to produce rotational energy converted into electricity.
The motor drives the rotor and is responsible for transferring the power from the generator to the electric load.
Construction AC Generator
The role of each structure of the AC generator is listed below.
Field: The field comprises conductor coils that receive electricity from the source and produce a magnetic flow. The armature is cut off by the magnetic flux in the field, producing voltage. This voltage is the output voltage of the AC generator.
Armature: The part of the AC generator that generates voltage is the armature. This section contains coils of cables large enough to hold the current capacity of the generator.
Prime Mover: The prime mover is the part that drives an AC generator. A diesel engine, steam turbine, or engine can all be key drivers.
Rotor: It is the rotating part of the generator. The prime mover of the generator drives the rotor.
Stator: The immovable part of an AC generator. Its core is magnetic iron lamination to reduce eddy current losses.
Slip Rings: Slip rings are electrical connectors that carry electricity from the AC generator rotor. They are mainly used to transfer power from a static device to a rotating device.
Conclusion
This article explains types of AC generators. Generally, there are two types of AC generators: the single-phase AC generator and the three-phase AC generator.
The difference between ac generator types is the number of armatures used to make the generator
Here are a few factors that help AC generators produce electricity:
The type of fuel used in the generator. It can be either diesel or gasoline.
The size of the generator. Larger generators are better suited for producing more electricity than smaller generators.
The number of generators connected. The more connected generators, the greater the amount of power produced.
AC Generators are reliable and efficient and can be used in diverse settings. They are also relatively affordable, making them a good option for those looking for an affordable method of powering their devices.
