How does an electric generator work

The working principle of an electric generator

Generators are an important part of the components of many devices in our lives, such as: washing machines, vacuum cleaners, etc. They can be operated in two different modes, that is, they can be used as a motor that moves the device in one direction and as a generator. The mechanism of the generator’s work depends on electromagnetism and energy conservation to a large extent, as the magnet is considered The electrician is the most important part of the generator, but its magnetic force is controlled through electricity. When a wire made of a conductive material such as copper, for example, is transmitted through a magnetic field, the current arises in the wire, which is considered a primitive generator, but when electricity is passed through the wire wrapped around an iron core that is in a magnetic field, it It moves, and in this case it is considered a primary mover.

Mechanical energy sources for the electric generator

The mechanical power of an electric generator is often obtained from a rotating shaft, and there are many sources of mechanical power, such as: hydraulic turbines in dams or waterfalls, wind turbines, and steam turbines that use steam resulting from burning fossil fuels, or from nuclear fission, and gas turbines where The gas is burned directly in the turbine, diesel or gasoline engines, and the structure and speed of the generator vary depending on the mechanical characteristics of the main engine.

Components of an electric generator

The electric generator consists of four main components, which are as follows:

• Vertigo: It is an exposed wire base mounted on a pole.
• Stator: It is a field of magnets stimulating electrical energy arranged next to each other inside a cover.
• Slip rings: It is the one that carries the alternating current to and from the motor.
• Brushes: They are connected to slip rings and transmit current to and from the electrical circuit.

Types of electric generator

Electrical generators are classified into two types depending on the electrical current produced, which is either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). It is worth noting that the two types work on the same basic principle despite the different construction details for each of them. Generators are also classified according to the source of mechanical energy. Or the main engine through which the generator is operated, such as water or steam power.