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A generator is a common electrical product used in both home and office. It is generally a combination of a control system, circuit breaker, engine and an alternator fitted on a base. In addition to the above-specified generator parts, a generator also comes with fuel tank and sound attenuated canopies for reducing noise created during working. At times, jacket water heaters are added in combination to the above-specified sets to keep the water warm in a generator. Generally, generators need more time to get operated in cold temperature. The presence of a jacket water heater allows getting operated within a short period of time.
Parts & Functions of Generators
Generator Size
Price rate of a generator varies as per the quality of brand and the power of the product. Size varies from a small briefcase up to larger ones with big fuel tank and canopies. The needed size of a generator is chosen according to the purpose of application. For example, generators are used for camping purpose is basically small in size when compared to that of industrial use. Hence size of a generator is chosen according to its working function. To ensure backup, a big sized generator usually comes up with a small sized standby generator to meet the immediate needs.
Generally, a standby generator is meant to meet up the emergency needs. It generally works for a short period of time. Today, generator sets of both 1500 rpm and 300 rpm can be easily availed from any online store like Amazon for example. Those generator sets which run at 3000 rpm can even work up to eight hours a day. Chance of engine failure in a generator which runs at 3000 rpm (or even more) is higher when compared to that of others which run at 1500 rpm. Over strain on generator engine is the main factor that contributes for this trouble. Servicing of each product plays a great role in ensuring high performance of the generator. To get improved performance, be sure to do the servicing of generator at frequent time intervals.
Generator Control System
The Control system is a main part of each generator which performs a key role in its function. In earlier times, control system were an array of relays, gauges and switches. At present, control system of generator is in digital mode. This particular part of a generator is mainly responsible to monitor the whole process and function of a generator. Generally, engines of generators are equipped with sensors to give information about problems like oil pressure or other details. Any troubles during the working of generator can be thus noted with the help of these sensors provided by major brands.
Monitoring the input and output voltage and current plays a great role in enhancing its performance. Today, users can make use of sensors on engines to note down the voltage and current voltage output of a generator. Complexity of one generator may be entirely different from that of others. Working purpose and the time period of working are the two main factors that decide the complexity of power generators.
Alternator and Rotor
First the Alternator is one among the main generator parts that plays a key role in working process. This particular part is mainly responsible to produce power during its working. An engine inside the generator will turn the alternator to produce power for its operation.
Rotor and stator are the two main generator parts seen inside a generator. Rotor is the rotating machine placed outside the stator of an alternator. Current generated from iron core is then transmitted from generator to the needy products for their working. A generator is usually made up with three stators to generate three phase electricity. Most of the generators available in stores generally run with diesel fuel. Apart from diesel fuel, you can also get generators that run from petrol and gas. Petrol fueled generators are used in small sized products, whereas gas type generators are used in large type generators. To ensure the best result, feel free to select generators of high quality brands.
Benefits of a Generator
Of course, there are critical financial benefits to having a generator for your home, as well.
– Your appliances will continue to function normally, meaning food and other perishable items will not spoil. Everyone’s gotta eat, right?
– If you work from home, your computer, television and other technological devices will continue to operate as normal, meaning you get to keep making money while other others are stuck.
– To the same point, keeping your computers, televisions and radios working means you can stay on top of the current weather or power conditions.
– Sump pumps will continue to operate even in severe conditions (if connected to the generator), reducing the likelihood of your home flooding from the inside-out (or outside-in for that matter).
– Air conditioners and well pumps will also operate, meaning you won’t have to evacuate your home (unless the conditions make it dangerous to stay) and find a hotel to stay in for an indefinite amount of time.
– Having a generator increases your home’s value and provides a selling point if you decide to sell your house.
Features of a Generator
120 vs 240 Volts
Many small generators provide just 120 volts. When power needs are light and you won’t run any 240- volt appliances or tools, one or more 120 volt outlets work just fine. As the power requirement in watts increases however, 120-volt units become increasingly inefficient.
Larger units generate 240 volts more efficiently and supply it as separate 120-volt circuits. For higher voltage applications, such as supplying certain tools or connecting to the house during an outage, the 240-volt option is important. .
Low Oil Shutdown
Generators often run for hours without a rest. As they use oil, the level can drop to a point where it doesn’t properly lubricate the engine anymore and damage can occur. A low-oil sensor can shut off the engine and prevent costly repairs or even the need to replace the generator.
A low oil sensor is especially important when the generator will run unattended for long periods. Always check the oil during refueling and top it off to maintain the correct level.
Electric Start
If you’ve ever pulled endlessly on the starter rope for a large engine, you know what a chore that can turn into. Electric starters eliminate this problem. The speed and duration make it very easy to start the engine.
Since your generator will probably spend a good portion of its life in storage, keep the battery charged and ready. A charger designed to maintain a battery without overcharging will ensure it stays ready for use.
Although you won’t find a pull cord on most larger generators, such as a standby unit or trailer model. If the battery dies at the wrong time, you can still start the generator if necessary.
Receptacles
Match the number and type of receptacles to the intended to use. On small units, two or three, 120-volt receptacles is usual. As the power capacity increases, expect to find a wider variety of types. A feature like GFCI receptacles is important when you’re running hand-held appliances on extension cords in a damp location.
Look for one or two locking receptacles with a high-current capacity. A 30-amp or 50-amp receptacle is useful for connection to a manual transfer switch and can provide power to hard-wired appliances such as a furnace, well pump, or even an air conditioner.
Fuel Use
Most generators run on gasoline and storing fuel for them sometimes turns into an issue. Many local communities restrict storage of gasoline and a common limit is 25 gallons. Gasoline also has a limited storage life and keeping large fuel supplies fresh is a chore.
Some models run on propane (LP Gas) and they eliminate the need to store gasoline for the generator. They use the same tanks as your gas grill. Some generator manufacturers recommend the use of pure gasoline without ethanol additives. It only costs twenty to thirty cents more per gallon, but using it may mean a longer generator life, better fuel economy, and smoother operation.
Power Capacity
Purchase ten to twenty percent more power than you need. If you need a lot of power for the biggest power tools then a 10,000 watt generator should do the trick. If you want to spend a little less and looking for an inverter generator for camping then a 3000 watt inverter generator will get the job done. It allows some leeway for additional loading if necessary. A new tool or appliance might use more power than the one you’re using now.
Remember the difference between continuous capacity and surge capacity. Choose a generator that can continuously supply the maximum amount of power you intend to draw. Add up all your electrical loads, then add triple the load of your largest motor. After that, add another ten to twenty percent and that is the size generator you should purchase.
Conclusion
Hopefully this helps you to understand the generator parts and their working functions.
