An electric generator is a set of tools consisting of a generator that produces electricity and a rotating motor. This rotating motor produces mechanical power which is then converted into electricity with the help of a generator.
Electric generator is an important tool for both household and commercial purposes such as hotels, hospitals, or industry. This is because the generator can help you get a power supply when there is a power outage at any time. So you can still continue your operational activities.
In an electric generator there are at least seven main components. The following is an explanation of the names and functions of these components:
1. Motor
A motor is a mechanical machine that rotates to produce mechanical energy which will then be channeled and converted into electricity with the help of a generator.
The motor on the generator component is divided into several types depending on the type of fuel used. Several types of fuels that can be used include diesel, gasoline, propane, biogas and methane.
The rotational speed of the motor on the generator has a stable and constant speed, which is 1600 RPM or 1500 RPM. The generator motor is deliberately designed to have a constant rotational speed in order to produce a stable electric current.
2. Cooling System
As the name implies, the cooling system is a component in the generator that functions to dissipate heat from the engine while operating so it doesn’t wear out and get damaged quickly. There are two types of cooling systems on the generator, namely the water cooled system and the air cooled system.
3. Alternator
An alternator is a component in the form of a dynamo in which there is a coil of copper wire surrounded by a magnet or a stator. When the turbine rotates, the components in the alternator will have a potential difference so that electrons can flow and produce electricity.
The process of generating electricity by rotating a conductor in a magnetic field is known as magnetic induction. The electricity produced is a type of alternating current (AC) so that it needs to be converted into DC to channel it to the appliance.
4. Fuel System
In the fuel system there are components that deliver fuel to the motor. Another function of the fuel system is to prevent blockages and leaks in the fuel flow and to keep exhaust gases from returning to the fuel system components.
You can add an external tank if you feel you need a larger volume of fuel for a longer run time.
5. Control Panel
The Control Panel is the interface between the generator engine and the operator. This panel is used to monitor and adjust engine performance on the generator set.
These controls include the amount of voltage generated by the generator, the amperage, and the frequency of the current. In this panel there is also a circuit breaker to turn off the generator in the event of a breakdown.
6. Skid
Skid is a metal rack where the components in the generator such as the alternator, motor engine, and fuel tank are arranged into one like the frame on a car. This framework also functions as a protector so that the components on the generator are neatly arranged and do not directly touch the ground to prevent grounding and corrosion.
This component is made of heavy duty steel which is very solid so that it is sturdy and able to support the weight of the generator while it is operating. Skid also serves to dampen the vibrations generated by the generator.
7. Radiators
The radiator on a generator uses an engine equipped with a water-cooled system. The radiator is used to cool the engine while it is running, to ensure it does not generate an over temperature alarm. If the generator uses air cooling or an alternative cooling method then you won’t find a radiator.
Radiators are usually equipped with radiator fans that are driven mechanically from the engine’s crankshaft via pulleys and belts, or can also be driven electrically by an electric motor. There are a lot of fans on the radiator, especially if they are electrically driven.
That’s the main component of the generator, here are the factors you need to pay attention to when installing the generator:
- If the generator you are using is covered by an enclosure, always make sure that the door can open normally and also make sure the cooling system is working properly because these components can trap heat.
- Position your generator in isolation or away from the center of activity to avoid noise and make sure it has adequate ventilation to dissipate heat and exhaust gases.
- If you use an indoor generator, make sure you have prepared a special room for the generator and it is isolated from other rooms.
- Make sure to take good care of the generator, so that it is not damaged and can be durable.