How Generator Works – Detailed Guide

Got question How Generator Works? We are here to explain !! Generators are power-producing machines that are used in case there is a power shortage from the grid station. Heavy-duty generators can potentially be used to provide backup power supply to industries, homes, and offices in case of power shutdowns. They can also be utilized as the primary power source in rural or remote areas that do not have access to grid stations.

If you have purchased a generator for the first time, it might be beneficial for you to learn about how it actually works. We have compiled all the information you may need in this article.

How Generator Works and How they produce electricity:

Basic Working:

You must have heard somewhere that generators produce power. But how and from where? Generators do not “create” power. Basically, they use the mechanical energy supplied to them using fuel and convert it into electrical power. They do this by using the mechanical energy to force electrons present in the wire through an electrical circuit. The flow of electrons produces a current which is delivered as output by the generator.

Generators used in dams are huge and deliver large amounts of power using the mechanical energy of water running through turbines. Residential and commercial generators are usually much smaller and use traditional fuels such as gas, propane or diesel to produce the mechanical power that is then converted into electrical power.

The power production of modern-day generators is based on Faraday’s principle of electromagnetic induction. This principle states that the movement of an electrical conductor in a magnetic field induces an electrical current. This movement generates a voltage difference among the conductor’s two ends which causes the electrical current to flow through the circuit.

Components:

A generator has 9 main components and all of them play a vital role in the working of the generator. These components are:

1. Engine:

The engine is basically the supplier of energy for the generator. The power output of a generator can be determined by the engine’s power.

2. Fuel System:

The fuel system enables the generator to produce energy. It consists of a fuel pump, fuel tank, return pipe, and connecting pipe between the tank and the engine. A fuel filter helps filter any debris from the fuel before it enters the engine. A fuel injector pushes the fuel directly into the combustion chamber.

3. Alternator:

This is the part where mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy. It is also called the greenhead. Moving and stationary parts in the alternator work together in order to create a magnetic field which leads to the generation of power.

4. Voltage regulator:

It controls the voltage of the electricity produced by the generator. Conversion between AC and DC is also its domain.

5. Lubrication system:

This component is responsible for lubricating all the small moving parts in a generator with oil in order to prevent wear and tear caused due to friction.

6. Cooling and exhaust system:

This system ensures that the generator doesn’t overheat as it generates a lot of heat during its operation. It also helps remove any exhaust fumes that are produced during the operation.

7. Control Panel:

It basically controls all variables of the generator including start-up, running speed and power output, etc. Nowadays generators also have special sensors that can detect faults and take immediate action for example automatic shut down in case of overload.

8. Battery Charger:

It charges the batteries which are utilized in starting up the generator. It provides the batteries with low-level voltage in order to keep them ready for operation.

9. Main assembly/frame:

This is the actual structure of the generator which holds all the parts in place.