Introduction:
Electric Generator is a Latin word that means maker or originator. In general, this term has various meanings.
In electricity generation, a generator is a device that converts mechanical energy to electrical energy for use in an external circuit.
The source of mechanical energy may vary widely from a hand crank to an internal combustion engine.
Explanation:
Electric Generator provide nearly all of the power for electric power grids.
A generator is a machine by which mechanical energy is transformed into electrical energy.
Generators can be sub-divided into two major categories depending on whether the electric current produced is alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC).
The basic principle on which both types of generator works is the same, although the details of construction of the two may differ somewhat.
The reverse conversion of electrical energy into mechanical energy is done by an electric motor, and motors and generators have many similarities.
Many motors can be mechanically driven to generate electricity and frequently make acceptable generators.
In power industry, it refers to a device that produces electricity.
We know that although electricity does occur naturally, it does not exist in the forms that currently can be practically stored and utilized.
Therefore for practical use it is produced from other forms of energy, such as chemical, nuclear or thermal energy contained in various types of fuel.
It can also be obtained from renewable resources. It is important to note that electricity generation is a multi-step process.
In electric generators the energy stored in fuel is converted into mechanical energy of rotating shaft. A machine is called prime mover.
The common types of prime movers are steam turbines, internal-combustion engines, gas combustion turbines as well as water and wind turbines.
Generators are useful that supply electrical power during a power outage and prevent discontinuity of daily activities or business operations.
Generators are available in different electrical and physical configurations for use in different applications.