What is generator

Generators are typically classified according to fuel type and portability although they can be categorized across many other variables. The three basic types of generators include:. While generators are relatively simple devices that need little maintenance, they do need certain types of maintenance.

We recommend generator owners implement a preventative maintenance plan and get inspections and repairs as needed. Preventative maintenance involves checking for worn parts and proper operation before the generator experiences problems.

This can include items like making sure the fuel hoses are clear of debris, not kinked and supplying the correct amount of fuel to the engine of the generator. It may also involve lubricating the moving parts in the generator and making sure all electrical connections are tight and that electrical components are not corroded or damaged.

Common items that need to be replaced and repaired include the fuel hoses, engine, control panel, voltage regulator and battery and battery charging system. The good news is that all the components of a generator can be either repaired or replaced so that reliable supplemental or backup power can be restored. To learn more about our generators and generator service, give us a call at or get in touch via the contact form.

Request a Custom Quote Request a Quote. You are here: Home 1 » What is a Generator? What is a Generator? Functions and Uses of a Generator Electricity is the lifeblood of contemporary society. Lubricant levels should be checked regularly, as often as every 8 hours of operation. Battery Charger.

Batteries are used to start up the generator. The battery charger is a fully automatic component that ensures the battery is ready to go when needed by supplying it with a constant low-level of voltage. Control Panel. The control panel controls every aspect of generator operation from start up and running speed to outputs. Modern units are even capable of sensing when power dips or goes out and can start or shut off the generator automatically.

This is the body of the generator. It is the part that we see; the structure that holds it all in place. Generator Fuel Tanks The fuel system ensures the generator has the necessary raw materials needed to provide electricity by initiating the internal combustion process. Generator Exhaust Systems and Emissions Controls As machines that burn fossil fuels and run continuously, even if that run time is erratic, generators must be equipped with components to cool them off and to filter emissions.

Generator cooling and ventilation systems reduce and remove heat in a variety of ways: Water. Water can be used to cool off generator components. This type of coolant system is typically limited to specific situations or very large units of 2, kW and higher. Hydrogen is a very efficient coolant that is used to absorb heat given off by a running generator. The heat is transferred to a heat exchanger and a secondary cooling circuit, often located in large, on-site cooling towers.

Radiators and fans. Smaller generators are cooled through a combination of a standard radiator and fan. Also known as the RICE rule. Also known as the spark ignition NSPS rule.

In many gensets, the panel will even automatically shut down the engine when it detects a problem with fluid levels or other aspects of generator operation. Generator gauges provide valuable information about output current, voltage, and operating frequency. The best generator maintenance routine is the one recommended by the manufacturer, but, at a minimum, all generator maintenance plans should include regular and routine: Inspection and removal of worn parts.

Checking of fluid levels, including coolant and fuel. Inspection and cleaning of the battery. Conducting of a load bank test on the generator and automatic transfer switch. Checking of the control panel to ensure accuracy of readings and indicators. Changing of the air and fuel filters. Inspection of the cooling system. Lubrication of parts as needed. Still, you can get an idea of your power needs yourself by: Creating a list of everything that needs to be powered by the generator.

Noting the starting and running wattage of each of those items. Calculating the total power requirements in kVA or kW. Some devices will provide power requirements in amps. Video series featuring innovators. ET Financial Inclusion Summit. Malaria Mukt Bharat.

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Let's reshape it today. Corning Gorilla Glass TougherTogether. ET India Inc. ET Engage. ET Secure IT. Trade Exports. This cycle continues till the generator begins to produce output voltage equivalent to its full operating capacity. As the output of the generator increases, the voltage regulator produces less DC current. When you add a load to a generator, its output voltage dips a little. This prompts the voltage regulator into action and the above cycle begins.

The cycle continues till the generator output ramps up to its original full operating capacity. It is essential to have a cooling and ventilation system to withdraw heat produced in the process.

Hydrogen is sometimes used as a coolant for the stator windings of large generator units since it is more efficient at absorbing heat than other coolants. Hydrogen removes heat from the generator and transfers it through a heat exchanger into a secondary cooling circuit that contains de-mineralized water as a coolant.

This is why very large generators and small power plants often have large cooling towers next to them. For all other common applications, both residential and industrial, a standard radiator and fan is mounted on the generator and works as the primary cooling system. It is essential to check the coolant levels of the generator on a daily basis.

The cooling system and raw water pump should be flushed after every hours and the heat exchanger should be cleaned after every 2, hours of generator operation. The generator should be placed in an open and ventilated area that has adequate supply of fresh air.

The National Electric Code NEC mandates that a minimum space of 3 feet should be allowed on all sides of the generator to ensure free flow of cooling air. Hence, it is essential to install an adequate exhaust system to dispose of the exhaust gases. Exhaust pipes are usually made of cast iron, wrought iron, or steel.

These need to be freestanding and should not be supported by the engine of the generator. The exhaust pipe terminates outdoors and leads away from doors, windows and other openings to the house or building.

You must ensure that the exhaust system of your generator is not connected to that of any other equipment. You should also consult the local city ordinances to determine whether your generator operation will need to obtain an approval from the local authorities to ensure you are conforming to local laws a protect against fines and other penalties.

Lubricating System Since the generator comprises moving parts in its engine, it requires lubrication to ensure durability and smooth operations for a long period of time.