Section 1

GENERATOR FUNDAMENTALS

A SIMPLE AC GENERATOR

Figure 1-4 shows a very simple AC Generator. The generator consists of a rotating magnetic field called a ROTOR and a stationary coil of wire called a STA- TOR. The ROTOR is a permanent magnet which con- sists of a SOUTH magnetic pole and a NORTH mag- netic pole.

As the MOTOR turns, its magnetic field cuts across the stationary STATOR. A voltage is induced Into the STATOR windings. When the magnet's NORTH pole passes the STATOR, current flows in one direction. Current flows in the opposite direction when the mag- net's SOUTH pole passes the STATOR. This con- stant reversal of current flow results in an alternating current (AC) waveform that can be diagrammed as shown in Figure 1-5.

The ROTOR may be a 2-pole type having a single NORTH and a single SOUTH magnetic pole. Some ROTORS are 4-pole type with two SOUTH and two NORTH magnetic poles. The following apply:

1.The 2-pole ROTOR must be turned at 3600 rpm to produce an AC frequency of 60 Hertz, or at 3000 rpm to deliver an AC fre- quency of 50 Hertz.

2.The 4-pole ROTOR must operate at 1800 rpm to deliver a 60 Hertz AC frequency or at 1500 rpm to deliver a 50 Hertz AC frequency.

Figure 1-5. – Alternating Current Sine Wave

A MORE SOPHISTICATED AC GENERATOR

Figure 1-6 represents a more sophisticated genera- tor. A regulated direct current is delivered into the ROTOR windings via carbon BRUSHES AND SLIP RINGS. This results in the creation of a regulated magnetic field around the ROTOR. As a result, a reg- ulated voltage is induced into the STATOR. Regulated current delivered to the ROTOR is called “EXCITATION” current.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 1-6. – A More Sophisticated Generator

 

 

 

 

 

See Figure 1-7 (next page). The revolving magnetic

 

 

 

 

 

field (ROTOR) is driven by the engine at a constant

 

 

 

 

 

speed. This constant speed is maintained by a

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

mechanical engine governor. Units with a 2-pole rotor

 

 

 

 

 

require an operating speed of 3600 rpm to deliver a

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 1-4. – A Simple AC Generator

60 Hertz AC output. Engine governors are set to

maintain approximately 3720 rpm when no electrical

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

loads are connected to the generator.

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Generac Power Systems 55, 75, 65 manual Simple AC Generator, More Sophisticated AC Generator

65, 75, 55 specifications

Generac Power Systems has established itself as a leader in power generation, offering a range of high-performance generators suited for residential and commercial applications. Among its lineup, the Generac 55, 65, and 75 kW generators stand out for their reliability, efficiency, and advanced features.

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Overall, Generac Power Systems' 55, 65, and 75 kW generators represent a commitment to quality, reliability, and innovation in backup power solutions. They are designed to meet the demands of modern power consumption while ensuring peace of mind through robust engineering and advanced technology. Whether for home use or commercial applications, these generators provide an effective means to stay prepared for unexpected power outages.