Everyone enjoys being in a calm environment. Now, we have reached a stage where we cannot picture life without certain conveniences. One such comfort is electricity. People use electricity on a regular basis. We lose that luxury, as well as our mental satiety if there is a power outage. Because of that, generators have become extremely necessary. They are necessary for a variety of situations. In this article, we are focusing on the categories of generators. We hope that through this, you would be able to get a good understanding of the categories of generators.
About Generators
Before we discuss the categories of generators, we thought we would give you some basic information about generators. This assists in gaining a more thorough understanding of them.
A generator is an electric device to use with a number of different add-ons. You may use them to acquire electricity if there is a power outage or blackout. In actuality, a blackout can happen for a multitude of reasons. Generators, on the other hand, require the usage of additional accessories to function properly. When buying or deciding to buy a generator, there are several factors to consider. Many companies say that their portable generators are plug-and-play, but this is not necessarily true. To get the most out of a portable generator, you would need the right accessories. It makes no difference whether the generator is for the house or for RV travel. Electricians and HVAC technicians are among the experts that frequently use generators.
The two most important factors to consider when purchasing a generator are ease of use and safety. Some add-ons are necessary for maximum performance, while others aid in the setup and maintenance of the system.
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Safety concerns
It is actually pretty important to know about the safety concerns of generators before we focus on the categories of generators. So, we shall now talk about the safety concerns of generators.
It is vital to understand the risks of utilizing generators. You should be aware of the safety regulations that apply to generators if you use them. It is vital that you take all safeguards required. Check to see if your generator is still in excellent operating order. If you use a generator incorrectly, you might end up in a dangerous situation.
Obviously, engine exhaust can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Even if you do not notice it, there can be exposure to carbon monoxide. If you get ill, dizzy, or weak when operating a generator, get some fresh air as soon as possible. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, seek medical help right once. Carbon monoxide detectors require batteries to function. After reading the manufacturer’s instructions, take the appropriate measures. Electric shock, electrocution, and fire are all possible outcomes. So, you must use generators with prudence. It is just as vital to understanding why we need generators as it is to know how to use them. You can learn more about it, though, by reading more about it.
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What are the Categories of Generators?
Now, we have come to the main content of our article. And now, we can talk about the categories of generators in particular.
Generators are available in a variety of forms and sizes. And we can categorize them depending on their use, the sort of power output it produces in terms of watts and current, and a variety of other factors. We can also classify these generators depending on their size, which spans from small and portable to medium and big industrial generators. Even though there are many different types of generators, they all have one thing in common. Every generator operates on the same basic basis. A stationary coil inside a changeable (spinning) magnetic field or a winding coil (armature) revolving inside a permanent magnetic field (also known as an alternator).
Despite the fact that there are different methods to classify generators, we will categorize them in the following ways. Depending on the;
- Nature of electric current
- Application and power rating
- Fuel type
we can categorize generators. In the following part of the article, we are focusing on the categories of generators in detail. We think that you will be able to get a good understanding of the categories of generators if you go through the next part of the article.
1. Depending on the nature of the electric current it produces
To start with, we are going to talk about the categories of generators depending on the nature of the electric current the generator produces. Let us talk about that now.
Direct Current (DC)
Let us have a look at direct current generators. In most off-grid applications, direct current generators are in use. This sort of generator provides a constant power supply to electric storage devices and DC power networks without the need for any additional equipment. DC-AC converters transport the stored energy to loads. As batteries are stimulated to recover much more fuel, the Direct Current generators might be regulated back to an unchanging speed. In addition, D.C generators may be classed based on how their magnetic field develops in the machine’s stator.
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Permanent-magnet DC generators
Now, we shall talk about permanent-magnet DC generators under categories of generators. Because permanent magnets are used to generate the magnetic flux, permanent magnetic direct current generators do not require external field excitation. They are in use in applications that need less power.
Separately-excited DC generators
Under the categories of generators, we can now discuss separately-excited DC generators. To create magnetic flux, Separately Excited Direct Current Generators require external field excitation. Variable output power may be obtained by modulating the excitation.
Self-excited DC generators
Self-excitation generators are excitation generators in which current flows from the armature (rotor) winding, which flows to the main poles’ winding stimulating the magnetic field of the main poles. A self-excited generator differs from a separately excited generator in that the main poles’ windings get current from a different source. Self-excitation is commonly in use in Direct Current Generators. The primary current in the field winding during the commencement of these generators is the consequence of the electromotive force in the armature winding under the influence of the main poles’ lasting magnetic field.
The initial current must sustain this field in order for it to withstand self-excitation. The extra magnetic flux raises the armature’s electromotive force and, as a result, the current in the main poles’ windings. However, when the current builds up, the increments in magnetic flux equivalent to equal increments in current become smaller owing to magnetic saturation in the magnetic circuit. As long as the electromotive force in the armature exceeds the voltage drop in the field winding, this self-excitation procedure continues.
Electric equilibrium occurs when the magnetic flux reaches a specific magnitude, and there is no further rise in magnetic flux, armature electromotive force, or excitation current. When the resistance of the field winding is within the precise level on the electric characteristics particular to each generator, it reaches the self-excitation condition. Shunt-wound, series-wound, and compound-wound self-excited generators can also be reclassified. Shunt-wound machines have two windings, the armature and field windings, which are linked in parallel. As the name suggests, series-wound machines have the armature and field windings connected in series. When we hear the term “compound machine,” we may deduce that it has both a series and shunt field winding.
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Alternating Current (AC)
Alternative Current Generators are the next type of generator based on the type of electric current produced that we can discuss under the categories of generators. The principle of Faraday’s law is in the operation of AC generators. That is when a current-carrying conductor disrupts a magnetic field, a voltage emanates. This we do by spinning a conducting coil in a stationary magnetic field or spinning the magnetic field that surrounds a static conductor. However, a static armature coil is better over a revolving coil because the alternating flow of current from a static armature coil is more comfortable.
An alternative current generator can produce two-phase, three-phase, or poly-phase current (6 or more). In the most basic sense, two-phase and three-phase currents indicate that the polarity of the current changes twice and three times every cycle of operation, respectively. We may further categorize alternating current generators based on the generator’s main working concept. Induction generators and synchronous generators are the two types of generators.
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Synchronous generators (alternating current generators)
Synchronous generators are commonly in use as sources of constant-frequency alternating current. They’re employed in power plants, electrical installations, and transportation networks, for example. When P. N. Jablochkov (Iablochkov) invented the arc lamp in the 1870s, synchronous generators became popular. The Jablochkov candle is another name for it. A synchronous generator consists of two parts: the rotor and the stator.
Rotor
Field poles make up the rotor portion. The mechanical primary mover has a link with the center shaft within the rotor. Conductors or coils looped into slots cut in the surface of the tubular iron rotor create the magnetic field. The field winding refers to a group of coils that have connections in series. The field coils are in a way that the external or radial component of the magnetic field in the air gap to the stator is almost simultaneously across the rotor’s perimeter.
Direct current flows to the synchronous generator’s rotor windings by rectifying equipment or a separate generator, which is usually on the same shaft as the synchronous generator. The magnetic field of the rotor creates an alternating electromotive force (electromotive force) in the three-phase winding of the stator while it rotates. This electromotive force has a frequency of f = pn, where P is the number of pole pairs and n is the rotor’s rotating speed. The number of pole pairs in high-speed synchronous generators (steam- and gas-turbine generators) is small: p = 1 or 2. Several tens of pole pairs are available in low-speed generators (water-turbine generators).
Changing the current in the rotor winding controls the magnitude of the electromotive force. The AC winding is on the rotor and the field winding is on the stator in some low-power synchronous generators. Generators with a large number of pole pairs, which are in use to generate higher-frequency currents, comprise a distinct category.
Stator
Armature conductors make up the stator. The elementary generator’s stator is a cylindrical ring made of iron that allows the magnetic flux to flow freely. The stator usually simply has one coil, with the two sides supported in slots in the iron and the ends connected by rounded conductors around the stator’s perimeter. The coil usually has a lot of turns.
More about Synchronous Generators
Synchronous generators provide the majority of the electrical energy that is in use for commercial reasons. These generators are most commonly in use to transform mechanical power from steam turbines, gas turbines, reciprocating engines, and hydro turbines into electrical power for the grid, which is mostly employed in power plants. These generators are built to work in the most demanding and sophisticated maritime and industrial procedures. They are very efficient, dependable, and approved by the most stringent marine certification authorities such as DNV, ABS, BV, and Lloyds. Reciprocating engines, prime and backup power, and propulsion power for naval vessels are all examples of popular applications for these generators.
Brushes and slide ring configurations are not necessary for the induction generators’ construction. Therefore, it is not as difficult as the production of synchronous generators. Brushes are required to give DC power to the rotor for excitation in a synchronous generator.
Usage in the production of current flow
Synchronous generators are commonly utilized in the creation of current flow, particularly in commercial-frequency applications. Steam or water turbines drive the rotors of these devices. Commercially available synchronous generators include gas turbines, internal-combustion engines, wind turbines, and electric motors. In addition, synchronous generators can be employed in variable-speed wind turbine applications. It’s conceivable because of the modest rotating synchronous speeds that allow for the generation of grid frequency electricity.
Synchronous generators are an excellent choice for wind turbines that operate at a variable speed. They don’t necessitate a pitch control system. The pitch control system raises the turbine’s cost while also putting strain on the turbine and generator. Variable speed synchronous generators will create variable voltage and variable frequency electricity. An AVR may be used to excite the field voltage, which can then be used to regulate the synchronous generator’s output voltage. The regulated capacitors, on the other hand, are used to control the voltage of the induction generators. In order to run in generating mode, their operating speed should be higher than synchronous speed.
Multiple Synchronous Generators
Because the gear is removed and the turbine and generator are driven directly, multiple synchronous generators may be utilized more effectively. When synchronous generators without multipoles are used to create power, however, gearboxes are employed to produce the appropriate frequency for supply connection to grid connection. Synchronous generators, on the other hand, require a DC voltage source or an AC/ DC converter to create the necessary excitation voltage for the field windings when in use in wind applications.
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Induction Generators
Induction generators, often known as asynchronous generators, function similarly to induction motors. Generators of this sort create energy with an alternate current flow. The rotor of an induction generator is mechanically at a faster speed than the synchronous speed during operation. We refer to the revolving speed of the magnetic field as synchronous speed. Induction generators are in use in situations such as mini-hydropower plants, wind turbines, and converting high-pressure to low-pressure gas streams. The induction generator has fewer requirements, for example, it does not require separate DC excitation, regulator controls, frequency control, or a governor. It operates by moving a conductor (winding coil or armature m) through a magnetic field to generate an electromotive force.
Do you know that an induction machine may act as a generator if we connect it to a steady supply of electricity with a consistent voltage and frequency? If a prime mover applies torque to the induction machine, it will revolve somewhat faster than its synchronous speed of 120 f/p revolutions per minute, where f is the supply frequency and p is the number of poles in the machine. The air-gap field moves faster than the rotor conductors. As a result of the interaction with a magnetic field, it will create induced currents that provide torque to balance the torque applied by the prime mover.
The supply network to be given will be coupled to a stator current or electric flow. The difference in speed between the rotor and the field is generally equal to the amount of electrical power provided. This variation is often in the range of 0.5 to 2% of rated speed at rated load. Due to the lack of a magnetic field, an induction generator is normally unable to create electrical power on its own.
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Advantages of AC current generators
There are some advantages of AC current generators over DC generators. Through transformers, AC generators may be simply stepped up and down. Because of the step-up functionality, transmission links are smaller too. Further, compared to a DC generator, there are fewer losses in AC generators. The size of AC generators is less than that of DC generators too.
Disadvantages of AC current generators
Nevertheless, using AC generators to generate significant amounts of AC electricity can be quite dangerous. The electric flow via the generator coils and transformer coils will create resistive heat. This heat has the potential to harm the insulation and start a fire.
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2. Depending on the application and power rating
Now, we are going to look into the categories of generators depending on the application and power rating. Here we go.
Standby power generators
These are the most frequent generators, and it is simple to understand why because they are backup or emergency generators. The most essential thing to remember about standby generators is that they are intended to be used as standalone equipment for a short length of time. This kind lacks a safety element that allows it to withstand overflow capacity in an emergency. As a result, it is not advisable to use standby power generators in conjunction with local grid power.
Prime power generators
When the local utility’s electricity is unavailable, they are mostly in use. The two types of generators in this category are limited run-time generators and indefinite run-time generators. A generator with a limited run time can only deliver maximum power for a certain number of hours with varying loads. A scheduled power outage is a great illustration of when to use these.
Continuous power generators
This type of generator, as the name suggests, can run constantly and provide 100 percent electricity for an indefinite number of hours per year. These are typically utilized in regions where there is no local power grid, such as mines, military outposts, and other distant locations.
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3. Depending on the fuel type’
Under the categories of generators, we can also classify them depending on the fuel type. First, let us talk about diesel generators.
Diesel generators
Generator sets that operate on diesel are known as diesel generator sets. These are frequently used as backup units in the event of a power outage. They are available in single-phase and three-phase configurations. These generators’ diesel engines are tough and dependable. Diesel generators, on the other hand, are significantly more efficient than conventional generators. It is also safer from a safety standpoint, because diesel is utilized, which is less combustible than other fuel sources. Diesel generators have become quieter in recent years. They are, however, more costly and somewhat bulkier.
Natural gas generators
Natural gas generators are similar to other generators in that they run on natural gas. They are, nonetheless, a widely utilized and efficient form of generating electricity since they utilize the most cost-effective and efficient non-renewable resources for power generation. A natural gas generator, on the other hand, will consume more fuel than a diesel generator. Natural gas generators are similar to other generators in that they run on natural gas. They are, nonetheless, a widely utilized and efficient form of generating electricity since they utilize the most cost-effective and efficient non-renewable resources for power generation. A natural gas generator, on the other hand, will consume more fuel than a diesel generator.
Biodiesel generators are becoming increasingly popular as a viable option to both natural gas and diesel generators due to their ability to overcome some of the issues that natural gas and diesel generators face. As a result, a promotional discount will boost the use of biodiesel generators across the board.
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Conclusion
This article’s primary concern was the categories of generators. We hope that now, you would be having a good idea about the categories of generators. If you’d like to know more about generators, you can try history of generators, early versions of generators, components of a generator, types of generators, why do we need generators?, general uses of generators, how a generator works, fuel types of generators, warranty of a generator, market availability of commercial generators, generator accessories, portable generators, maintenance of diesel generators, industry trends of generator market, market stats of generator industry, impact of Covid-19 on generator industry
