Lecture 2
Lecture 2
❖Generator
A generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical
energy.
Components:
• Rotor (Armature): The rotating part that
produces mechanical energy.
• Stator: The stationary part that produces the
magnetic field.
• Commutator (for D.C. generators): Ensures the
current flows in one direction.
Working Principle
❖A generator operates on the principle of
electromagnetic induction, which was discovered by
Michael Faraday. According to this principle, when a
conductor (such as a coil of wire) moves through a
magnetic field, an electric current is induced in the
conductor.
❖In a typical generator, mechanical energy is used to
rotate a coil within a magnetic field. As the coil spins,
the changing magnetic field induces an electric
current in the wire, generating electrical power
❖Types of Generators:
1. A.C. Generator (Alternator):
• Produces alternating current (A.C.).
• The current periodically reverses direction.
• Used for large-scale power generation, like in power plants and ships
2. D.C. Generator:
• Produces direct current (D.C.).
• The current flows in one direction.
• Commonly used in smaller applications, such as batteries or portable
power systems
❖Applications of Generators:
• Power Generation: Generators are used in power plants
to produce electricity from various energy sources such as
steam turbines, water turbines (hydropower), or
combustion engines.
• Marine Operations: Onboard generators supply
electrical power for lighting, navigation systems,
propulsion, and auxiliary systems on ships.
• Backup Power Systems: Standby generators are used in
homes, hospitals, and other critical facilities to provide
backup power during outages.
❖Motor
• A motor is a device that converts electrical energy
into mechanical energy.
Componets
• Rotor (Armature): The part that rotates and
provides mechanical output.
• Stator: The stationary part that provides the
magnetic field.
• Brushes and Commutators (for D.C. motors): These
help maintain a unidirectional current in the rotor.
Working Principle
• A motor operates on the principle that when an
electric current passes through a conductor
placed in a magnetic field, a force is exerted on
the conductor. This is known as Lorentz Force.
• In a motor, electric current is passed through a
coil of wire (rotor) that is placed in a magnetic
field. This causes the rotor to rotate, converting
electrical energy into mechanical rotational
energy.
Types of Motors:
1.A.C. Motor:
1.Powered by alternating current (A.C.).
2.Commonly used in large-scale industrial
applications, such as pumps, compressors, and
marine propulsion.
2.D.C. Motor:
1.Powered by direct current (D.C.).
2.Used in applications requiring precise control,
such as electric vehicles, robotics, and elevators
Applications of Motors:
• Marine Propulsion: Motors are used to power ship
propellers, making them critical for propulsion in
electric and hybrid ships.
• Industrial Machinery: Motors drive mechanical
operations in factories, cranes, conveyors, and other
industrial equipment.
• Household Appliances: Electric motors are found in
fans, refrigerators, washing machines, and other
appliances.
• Electric Vehicles: Motors power electric cars, bicycles,
and other transportation systems.
Comparison
Interrelationship Between Generators and Motors:
• Generators and motors are closely related and can
often be designed to work in reverse of each other. For
example, a D.C. motor can also act as a generator if the
mechanical shaft is driven externally.
• Electric motor-generators are sometimes used in
hybrid systems, like regenerative braking in electric
vehicles, where the motor generates electricity during
braking and uses it for acceleration.
Questions
1. Describe the major characteristics of AC and DC.
2. Compare AC and DC.
3. Describe any three major key components of generator.
4. Describe any three major key components of motor
5. Explain the Advantages and disadvantages of A.C and D.C
6. Compare generator and motor.
7. Explain when the electric motor can be used as generator?