The generator

The generator is based on Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction, that is, when a piece of metal, such as a copper wire, moves in a magnetic field, an electric field will be generated inside the metal.

The charge inside the metal will flow along the electric field. If the metal is not a ring, the charge will accumulate at both ends and exist in the form of voltage. When the metal is connected to a loop (the other parts of the loop except the metal are not in the magnetic field), a current will be generated, and then the generator will generate electricity.

Therefore, the basic principle of the generator is to fix the permanent magnet or metal and keep the metal or permanent magnet moving. Movement is relative. In this way, the metal that keeps moving in the magnetic field will generate electricity continuously.

This point can be used to distinguish different generators. Hydroelectric generators use the energy of water falling from a high place to maintain the movement of metal, and thermal power uses the power of steam generated by boiling water to maintain the movement of metal.
There are many types of generator sets, and different types of units are classified according to different standards, for example:

1. Classification by power source

There are diesel generator sets, gas generator sets, gasoline generator sets, wind turbine generator sets, solar generator sets, hydroelectric generator sets, coal-fired generator sets, etc.

2. Electric energy mode

According to the converted electric energy mode, it can be divided into two categories: AC generators and DC generators.

AC generators are divided into synchronous generators and asynchronous generators. Synchronous generators are divided into two types: hidden pole synchronous generators and salient pole synchronous generators. The most commonly used in modern power stations is synchronous generators, and asynchronous generators are rarely used.

Among them, the most commonly used is diesel generator sets.