AC Generator - Definition, Parts, Works, Function, Diagram

The AC generators have a big impact on the current electrical framework. The process of converting mechanical energy into electrical energy is the fundamental concept behind many electronic applications. In this article we will explore what is an AC generator, the AC generator diagram, the working principle of AC generator, the construction and components of AC generators, types of AC generators, applications in the real-life world, and their advantages as well as disadvantage

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This Story also Contains

1. What is AC Generator?
2. Definition of AC Generator Class 12
3. Detailed Explanation of AC Generator Working
4. Construction of AC Generator
5. AC Generator Working Principle And Functioning Class 12
6. Types of AC Generators
7. Advantages And Disadvantages Of AC Generators over DC Generators
8. Applications of AC Generators Class 12
9. Difference Between AC Generator And DC Generator
10. Summary

What is AC Generator?

An AC generator is a machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. Based on power supply, generators are usually divided into AC and DC types. For a DC manufacturer, the mechanical supply is one direction, and the opposite applies to an AC manufacturer. These differences in input delivery vary developers' internal performance.

This article will discuss the AC generator, its construction, how the EMF is drawn, its components and use, and much more. Roller rings are used in AC to produce alternating current in the machine. The electricity generated or current begins to switch between both types of generator.

Definition of AC Generator Class 12

A generator that converts the power of a machine into an electric current from a current output or a voltage source is known as an AC generator. This machine operates under Faraday's law of Electromagnetism. Here, the Direct Current voltage is generated by rotating inside a fixed coil, like a large power generator producing AC.

By applying Fleming's right-hand rule, the index of current changes in productivity is determined.

Detailed Explanation of AC Generator Working

An AC generator creates an alternating current that periodically reverses direction. But in a DC generator direct current flows in one direction. The two ends of the coil are attached to the commutator which balances charges to and from the generator, thus resulting in a current that does not alter direction.

To get a better understanding of an AC generator working, let's consider an AC generator diagram with a simple loop generator installed under the influence of a magnet.

Construction of AC Generator

Here is a list of parts of the AC generator shown in the AC generator diagram, including the yoke, permanent magnets, coils or wires for wires, pole section, arm, pole shoe, slip rings, and brushes. The frame that serves as the protective cover of the generator is known as the yoke. All of the above are within the yoke. Magnets produce magnetic fields. The four-wire coil AB, BC, CD, and DC is housed inside the magnet.

The armature flux causes the production of an arm cell. Surgery is performed smoothly, using smooth rings. The rings are attached to the brush where it passes now. As the sliding rings pass smoothly on the brushes, they prevent twisting of the wires. Let's discuss the parts of AC generator in detail:

• Armature: ABCD is a rectangular armature coil in which a large number of turns of insulated copper wire are coiled around a laminated soft iron core.
• Magnetic Field: The armature coil rotates in the effect of a strong electromagnet which is of order 1-2 Tesla. N and S are the north and south poles of the electromagnet
• Slip Rings: R₁ and R₂ are the two metallic rings which rotate with the rotation of coil. They are connected to the ends of the armature coil.
• Brushes: B₁ and B₂ are the two carbon rods which are fixed in a position. They are connected with the two slip rings. The brushes allow the current to pass from the armature coil to the external resistance.

The detailed AC generator diagram is given below to understand the components and workings of the AC generator clearly.

AC Generator Working Principle And Functioning Class 12

The working principle of AC generator is based on electromagnetic induction. It is the process of producing and generating an induced current in a coil by altering its orientation (i.e. it is rotated in a uniform magnetic field).

A loop is attached to a magnetic field called ABCD; as mentioned earlier in the AC generator diagram, the wire loop is called AB, BC, CD, and DC. With the help of an external shaft that acts as the main shaft, the loop is rotated.

The magnetic flux lines will run from left to right and from the north pole to the south pole. With the help of a shaft, the loop rotates as it cuts off the magnetic field. This improves the EMF, which makes the current flow through the conductors. With the help of Fleming's right-handed law on generators, the current

Fleming's right-hand rule gives which direction the current flows. The right hand is held with the thumb, index finger, and middle finger mutually perpendicular to each other index is determined.

The loop rotates; the law determines the current direction within wire AB. With a half cycle, the current flows into the AB wire. With the loop around the loop, the current inside the AB loop goes back to another loop. The same process is performed for other cables.

Slide rings are attached to the end of the loop and are responsible for the movement of the strings as the loop is rotated. It now passes through the slip ring to the brushes and is loaded as it passes through the smoothness of the brushes.

Throughout the half-cycle of the loop, the current direction is changed. By using a galvanometer, we can see the current exchange at the end of the load. This is how a current alternating generator generates a variable or current voltage.

Types of AC Generators

(i) Single Phase AC Generator

• It produces alternating current with a single current waveform.
• The construction is simple which makes it easier to operate.
• It is less expensive due to the modest design.
• Commonly used in household appliances which require small power loads.

(ii) Three-Phase AC Generator

• It produces alternating current with three current waveforms which are 120 degrees apart.
• They have complex construction due to additional components for maintaining three phases.
• It is more expensive due to the complex setup.
• Widely used in large industrial power-scale applications due to higher capacity.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of AC Generators over DC Generators

Advantages:

• Generation of AC is much cheaper than DC
• Most of the AC machines do not require high maintenance.
• Voltage can be increased or decreased easily.
• AC can be easily converted into DC.
• AC generators are easy to transmit over long distances.

Disadvantages:

• AC requires insulation as the peak value of AC is high.
• Electrolytic processes like electroplating can not be performed using AC.
• AC generators require transformers to step up or step down voltages.
• AC has more losses than DC.
• AC generators are less durable compared to DC generators

Applications of AC Generators Class 12

1. AC generators are used in hydropower plants and wind turbines to produce electrical energy using natural resources.

2. They are used in large-scale industries to supply power to heavy equipment.

3. AC generators are used in ships for electrical needs.

4. AC generators are also used in household appliances like refrigerators and washing machines.

5. They are used in power plants for the conversion of electrical energy from mechanical energy.

Difference Between AC Generator And DC Generator

The difference between ac generator and dc generator are given in the table:

Summary

From the article above, we had an overview of the AC generator class 12 important topic. The machine converts mechanical energy into electrical energy and provides output in the current exchange or power supply. They are used in various industrial machines as well as household appliances. In addition, the above article gives you an insight into the uses and working of AC generators in functional, and practical aspects of daily life.

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