What is a generator? Classification, structure, principle of operation

Generators are an indispensable device in the daily life and production needs of many establishments, businesses, factories, etc. Let’s find out what a generator is, its classification, structure and operating principle. it goes through the content below!

What is a generator?

A generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electricity , or simply a device that generates electricity, effectively serving the needs of electricity in backup situations when there is no power, power outage. , Overload,…

Generators have 3 main functions: generation (main), rectification and voltage correction . Stand-alone generators are often used for civil needs, when there is no power from the local grid, while industrial generators are used as backup for production facilities, businesses, etc.

With the capacity for the machine to reach the best condition, a common 3KW generator used in homes or small offices (about 4-5 people) will be moderate and avoid waste. You can use common equipment such as: filament lamps, fluorescent lights, refrigerators, air conditioners, water pumps, automatic rolling door motors, rice cookers, kettles, …

For small offices, generators can provide temporary power for desktop computers, laptops, fans, lights, etc., so that work is not interrupted.

Generators consist of the main part of the engine, most of which use internal combustion engines, using gasoline, oil and gas to operate. In addition, depending on the type of machine, there are additional parts attached.

Components commonly found in generators include:

– Motor: provides input power source.

– Generator: produces electricity from the supplied mechanical energy.

– Fuel system includes fuel tank, connecting pipe system, fuel pump,…

– AVR voltage stabilizer: regulates the output voltage of the machine.

– Cooling system: cooling by blower or fan.

– Lubrication system: lubricate the engine with oil to help them work better.

– Exhaust system: push the exhaust gas from the generator through pipes usually made of steel, cast iron or wrought iron.

Some popular generator types

Gasoline generator

Gasoline generators have engines that use gasoline fuel to operate to generate electricity. This type of machine usually has a small capacity , suitable for use in families, offices, small businesses, does not occupy much layout space.

Gasoline-powered generators have low cost, simple design and easy operation, noise and vibration are not too great, but fuel consumption is also high.

Diesel generator

Diesel generators are the most common, using an internal combustion engine that uses diesel fuel to operate. Diesel generators have 1.5 times higher engine efficiency than gasoline engines in the same segment, often chosen for use in schools, hospitals, factories, banks, etc. with good fuel economy. and high durability.

However, this model has a higher price than a gasoline engine, and the engine exhaust also contains more soot, and the size and weight of the machine is large, so the ability to move is less flexible.

Gas powered generator

A breakthrough for breeders with biogas generators helps to take advantage of cheap fuels and does not pollute the environment . The machine uses gas from the biogas cellar to the steam and H2S filter to produce cleaner and drier biogas, then continues through the biogas storage device to operate the engine and generate electricity.

This gas generator capacity depends on the scale of livestock to arrange, which is a good solution to optimize the economy in livestock, especially in rural areas.

Working principle of generator

Actual generators do not actually generate electricity but through converting mechanical or chemical energy into electrical energy.

Residential and commercial generators rely on traditional feedstocks to generate mechanical power and electrical currents, while high-powered generators provide massive power by transferring the energy generated by a water turbine. into electricity.

Currently all generators operate on the principle of electromagnetic induction by Michael Faraday. According to this principle, each generator acts as an area magnet, the conductor moving in the magnetic field creates electric charges to direct the generation of electric current. When the current is established, it is conducted through copper wire to supply external machines and equipment.

As a useful device in living, daily life, production and business needs of individuals, organizations, enterprises, generators, etc., generators are indispensable in business and production arrangements, in order to ensure provide temporary power supply in the event of power failure or shortage.