Friday, 30 October 2015

Everyone knows how a generator produces electricity



The power supply in a blackout area can be met by using a generator. A generator is the only device that helps in supplying a continuous source of power. If there is any disruption in the power supply, the generator helps in supplying power and it is best known for being an alternate source of energy. The configuration of the generators varies from machine to machine. 

The main function of the generator is to convert the mechanical form of energy to its electrical form. Electrical energy is produced because of this conversion. Principle of conservation of energy plays a vital role in this case. The principle says that energy is always convertible to different forms. The principle has a wider importance in the functioning of the generator. The flow of electric charges is the main cause of production of electricity by the generator. 

Electromagnetic induction guides the present model of electrical generators. Michael Faraday first invented the concept in the year 1831-32. Whenever a moving electrical charged conductor is placed in a magnetic field, then the flow of electrical charges is induced. A voltage difference is created between two extreme points of a wire due to the movement of the conductor. There is a flow of electrical charge and finally the electric current is produced. 

One of the major components of the generator is the voltage regulator. It always regulates the output voltage of the generator. First, it converts the AC Voltage to DC Current. The DC current is set into the secondary windings, known as the Exciter Windings. They again convert the DC Current to AC Current. They help in generating a small amount of AC current in this way. They are then connected to rotating rectifiers. 

The rotating rectifiers convert the AC Current to DC Current and help in rectifying the AC current generated by the exciter windings, convert it to DC current. The direct current goes to the rotor to create an electromagnetic field. The rotor converts the DC Current to AC Voltage and a larger AC voltage is induced across the windings of the stator.  

The cycle is followed and the generator is capable of producing maximum output voltage. When the output voltage increases, lesser amount of DC current is produced. When it reaches the maximum peak level, the voltage regulator achieves an equilibrium state. At that point, of time, sufficient direct current is produced to maintain the generator output at full operating level.

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