how does a generator work?

In this article, BISON will explain how generators work in simple terms and why they are so useful

November 1, 2023
BY BISON

A generator is a machine that produces electricity when needed. People and businesses use generators to keep the lights on during power cuts, run tools on job sites, or supply power in places without access to an outlet. So, how does a generator work? Simply put, a generator’s working principle is to use the principle of electromagnetic induction to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy.– It’s like a magical box that can create electricity when there is none available. The science behind how a generator works is both fascinating and complex, involving principles of physics and engineering.

If you’ve ever had these questions or are simply curious about the technology that drives our world and want to learn more, please continue reading this article. In this article, BISON will explain how generators work in simple terms and why they are so useful. So sit back, relax, and follow your BISON generator manufacturers on this fascinating journey of discovery.

Generator operation principle

Generators don’t actually create electricity—they convert chemical or mechanical energy into electrical energy. They do this by using motion to force electrons through a circuit. In simple terms, a generator works like an electric motor in reverse.

Some generators are large and use turbines powered by water to create energy. Residential and commercial generators are smaller and typically run on fuels like gasoline, propane, or diesel. These fuels power an engine that creates mechanical energy, which is then converted into electrical energy.

To supply power, the generator produces an electric current that flows through copper wires to external devices or electrical systems.

This process was discovered by Michael Faraday in 1831 and is aptly known as Faraday’s law of induction. Faraday showed that moving a conductor (like a wire) within a magnetic field can generate an electric current. Inside a generator, a wire coil moves near a magnet, allowing the flow of electricity—similar to how a pump pushes water through a pipe. Therefore, the induced voltage in the circuit is proportional to the rate of change of the magnetic flux passing through the circuit. And all generators, regardless of size, follow this principle.

Main components of a generator

Generators have several key parts that work together to produce and manage electricity. BISON generator manufacturers will introduce these components and their functions:

Engine: The engine is the heart of the generator. It provides the mechanical energy needed to initiate the electrical generation process. The size of the engine determines the amount of electrical power the generator can produce.
Alternator: Often referred to as the ‘gen head’, the alternator is where the conversion of mechanical energy into electrical energy occurs. It consists of moving parts (rotor) and stationary parts (stator), which work together to create an electromagnetic field for generating electricity.
Fuel system: The fuel system supplies the engine with the necessary fuel to run. It includes a fuel tank, pump, return pipe, connecting lines, and a filter that removes debris before the fuel enters the combustion chamber.
Voltage regulator: This component controls the output voltage from the alternator. It ensures a consistent and stable voltage, protecting your devices from voltage spikes or drops.
Cooling and exhaust systems: Generators generate a lot of heat. The cooling system helps dissipate this heat to prevent overheating, while the exhaust system expels combustion by-products.
Lubrication system: This system ensures that all moving parts in the engine and alternator are adequately lubricated to reduce friction and wear.
Battery charger: The battery helps start the generator. The battery charger keeps the battery full by supplying a steady, low-level charge automatically.
Control panel: This is the user interface of the generator. It includes start/stop controls, meters, and indicators for monitoring generator performance.
Main assembly/frame: The frame houses all the components of the generator. It provides a base for the generator and aids in its portability.

Types of generators: AC and DC

Generators are mainly divided into two types: AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current). Both produce electricity, but the type of current they generate is different.

AC generators (alternators)

AC means the electrical current changes direction back and forth. AC generators have a rotor (the spinning part) and a stator (the stationary part). As the rotor turns, it creates a moving magnetic field, which generates electricity in the stator coils.

These generators are commonly used in power plants to supply electricity to homes and businesses. Smaller AC generators are also used in vehicles to charge batteries and power electrical systems.

DC generators

DC means the electrical current flows in only one direction. DC generators work similarly to AC generators but use a commutator to keep the current flowing steadily in one direction. It is widely used in welding machines, battery charging, and powering small devices that require DC power.

There are three main types of DC generators:

Series DC generator: Produces high current; rarely used today.
Shunt DC generator: Provides steady voltage; used where consistent power is needed.
Compound DC generator: Combines features of series and shunt for both stable voltage and higher output.

How a generator works step by step

The process of generating electricity involves converting mechanical energy into rotational energy, creating a magnetic field with this energy, inducing an electric current through stator windings, regulating the output voltage, and finally, transmitting the current to the load.

conversion of mechanical energy into rotational energy

The generator engine, or prime mover, burns fuel to produce mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is converted into rotational energy, causing the engine’s shaft to spin.

Creation of a magnetic field

Attached to the engine’s shaft is the rotor within the alternator. As the rotor spins with the shaft, it creates a rotating magnetic field.

Induction of electric current

This rotating magnetic field moves past the stator windings in the alternator. According to Faraday’s Law of Electromagnetic Induction, this change in magnetic field induces an electric current in the stator windings.

Regulation of output voltage

The electric current produced can vary in voltage. To ensure a consistent and safe output, the voltage regulator steps in. It maintains the output voltage within acceptable limits, protecting your devices from potential damage due to voltage fluctuations.

Transmission of electric current to the load

Finally, the electric current generated is transmitted to the load, providing the power needed for various applications, from lighting up a bulb to powering heavy machinery.

Conclusion

In this comprehensive article, BISON delves into the fascinating working of a generator, explaining their fundamentals, key components, and step-by-step operation.

Generators play a crucial role in today’s world, ensuring a reliable supply of power whenever and wherever it’s needed. They are essential for businesses, hospitals, homes, outdoor events, and more, providing a lifeline during power outages and in areas without access to grid power.

If you’re looking for a durable and dependable generator, choose one from a trusted professional generator manufacturer in China like us. BISON boasts a complete factory production line and professionally trained staff, providing industry-leading reliability in everything from manufacturing technology to service support. Contact us now to import BISON generators from China!

FAQs

Where and why are generators used?

Generators are used in many places to provide electricity when regular power isn’t available:

At home: During power cuts, generators keep lights on, refrigerators running, and phones charged. Some can also power heaters or air conditioners during storms.
On construction sites: Builders use generators to run tools, lights, and machines where there’s no grid power. They make it possible to work anywhere.
In remote areas: Farms, cabins, and islands without power lines rely on generators for electricity. They’re also useful at outdoor events like concerts, fairs, weddings, and campsites—powering lights, sound systems, and food stalls.
In emergencies: Hospitals and rescue teams use generators to keep vital medical equipment and systems running during outages.
In businesses and factories: To avoid costly downtime, companies use generators to keep machines, computers, and safety systems working until the main power returns.