Main Components of an Electric Generator

A device that is used in generating electric energy using alternate sources of power. Note: The EIA classifies “generator” as a facility and not as a machine; per the EIA standard definition, such examples as solar generators and wind-driven generators are excluded from the definition. On the other hand, there are several devices used as electric generators that have been classified into classes based on their mechanism. In addition, the classification of devices into classes is also dependent on the purpose of each generator.

A DC electric generator is one type of DC electric generator that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy, through the action of an electric motor. The motive force of the electric motor converts the mechanical energy into electrical energy, which is then converted into mechanical energy, and so on. For example, the DC electric generator used at a hardware store transforms mechanical energy into electrical energy, which is then converted into mechanical energy, etc. (and so on, in an endless loop).

An example of a DC electric generator is a galvanometer. A galvanometer is a device used to measure the resistance in an electric field, such as between two poles, by the application of an alternating current of very low frequency. By measuring the resistance, the galvanometer can determine the polarity of the electric field. If the poles are parallel to one another, the polarity of the field will be identical. On the other hand, if the poles are opposite one another, the polarity of the field will be different, because one pole is pulling away from the other.

DC electric generators can be used for several purposes. For instance, they are used to convert mechanical energy into electrical power. The output from such generators can be fed directly into an electrical grid or an electric distribution network. At the same time, they can be used to power up vehicles. However, in order to do that, it would need several other components, such as batteries, to store the mechanical energy for conversion into electricity.

AC generators use the principles of electrical power networks. Such principles allow them to create large amounts of electricity. But the only real drawback is that the generators are much larger than the DC generators. But the advantages certainly outweigh the disadvantages, because it allows you to power your entire house even during a power outage. AC generators also allow for the generation of some greenhouse gases.

An alternative to direct current is what is called alternating current. In this type of electric current, there are three kinds: direct, alternating and mixed. Direct current is the kind of electric current used to power things like your car’s engine; the alternating current is used to charge a battery; and the mixed current is used to convert mechanical force into electric current.

The most commonly known types of alternate electrical current are what we call electrical motors. These electric motors are commonly used to turn cranes and generators. There are also those which use a turbine driven by steam turbines. All these different types of electric motors have one thing in common. They use a magnetic field to induce electrical charges into the mechanical energy, which is then converted into electric power.

So now you know how an electric motor works. You may also be aware of its other main components such as the alternator, the DC generator and the main AC motor. The alternator is responsible for supplying the electrical output to the main AC motor. And the generator converts the mechanical energy into electrical energy, which is then supplied to the house.