What Is The Difference Between An Alternator And A Generator

An alternator always induces an alternating current.

An alternator is a machine which converts the mechanical energy from a prime mover into the ac whereas the generator converters the mechanical energy from the prime mover into an ac or dc. Alternators conserve energy by using only the energy that is needed while generators use all the energy that is produced. The armature rotates inside a stationary magnetic field. The power we use in our homes is ac yet we call the device that produces that electricity a generator.

Apart from that they are different from each other in every other aspect. Alternator and generator are both mechanical devices that convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. Alternators receive input supply from the stator and generators receive that input supply from the rotor. Contrary to this the alternator only produces alternating current.

Alternators are considered more efficient than generators. An alternator is a device that converts mechanical energy into ac electrical energy. The electricity used in a car is dc yet we call this device an alternator. A generator produces direct current dc and an alternator produces alternating current ac.

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An alternator is a device mainly used to convert mechanical into alternating current ac. The alternator induces the ac whereas the generator causes both the ac and dc power. Alternators are energy efficient as they only use the required energy whereas generators utilize all the energy that is produced. Key differences between an alternator and a generator 1 power output.

While both of these devices will convert mechanical energy to electrical energy an alternator will convert this energy into ac only while a generator can convert this energy into either ac or dc. The alternators can t be used for charging the dead battery. Their usage can even cause the burning of the battery. This is where things don t seem to make sense.

Alternators have a rotating magnetic field and a generator has a stationary magnetic field which is fixed where the armature winding spins. A generator is a mechanical device which converts mechanical energy to either ac or dc electrical energy. A generator is an electric device that facilitates the conversion of mechanical into either alternating current ac or direct current dc. A generator can generate either alternating or direct current.

In a generator on the other hand the armature or windings of wire spin inside a fixed magnetic field to generate electricity. Alternators have rpm rotations per minute ranges and a generator offers a slight variation in the rpm range.