|
|
How does an alternator type generator work? What is the difference between a 2 and 4 pole generator? What is the difference between 1 and 3 phase power? How do I know what my power requirements are (How many kW's do I need?) What is Automatic Voltage Regulation? How does an alternator type generator work? The goal of an alternator type generator is to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. When a magnet is spun inside a coil of wire (usually wrapped around an iron core), it induces a current in that coil. An alternator type generator (alternator) uses this property by attaching a magnet (called the rotor) to the output shaft of the engine (either directly or with a gear or chain drive) and spinning it within one or many coils (called the stator). As the rotor spins, it induces an alternating current in coils of the stator. One can control the the frequency of the output by changing how fast the rotor is spun. What is the difference between a 2 and 4 pole generator? First, you should be familiar with how an alternator type generator works. Most small generators use a 2 Pole setup, this means that the generator spins a singal magnet (which posses 2 poles) inside of a coil. In order to produce an AC signal at 60Hz, this magnet must spin at 3600 RPM. This is why most small engines, which can run at higher RPM's for longer period of times, with utilize a 2 Pole configuration. On the other hand, a 4 pole configuration spins a set of magnets with 4 poles. Thus, in order to generate AC power at the same frequency (60Hz), the 4 Pole generator need only spin at half the speed of the 2 Pole generator, or 1800 RPM. What is the difference between 1 and 3 phase power? 1 phase power is probably the type of AC power you are familiar with. It is power delivered in a single sine wave. The downside of single phase power is that the sine wave crosses 0 Volts 120 times every second. While this doesn't present a problem in a residential setting, most commercial and industrial setting require a more steady form of power. Three phase power uses three sine waves, separated by 120°, to deliver near-peak power at any given moment in time. How do I know what my power requirements are (How many kW's do I need?) Power requirements can vary greatly depending on the types of devices you want to power. You can visit Honda's Wattage Calculator to get an idea about how much power common devices consume. The best way to figure out what your power needs are is to contact us. What is Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR)? AVR is a feature offered with many different generator models. The power produced by a generator is not perfect, many factors can introduce interference into their output. If unchecked, these imperfections can lead to spikes and dips which can damage sensitive electronic equipment. AVR uses a number of power conditioning techniques to smooth out the power delivered by a generator, guaranteeing safe operation for electronics. |
|
|
Home 
"Your Power Generation Headquarters For The Midwest"