Generators convert mechanical energy, which is the energy of motion, into electricity. These machines use an engine to create the motion. This engine that is powered by propane, gasoline, or natural gas spins the shaft, and this process is essential for creating electricity.
How Generators Actually Generate Electricity
Inside of this machine, there are two components that work in tandem with each other to create electricity, and these are the stator and the rotor. The stator remains stationary, and it is comprised of wire coils. The rotor contains magnets, and it moves and interacts with the coils in the stator while the engine spins. This interaction is responsible for moving the electrons, which are tiny particles inside the atoms of the wire. When these electrons move, this is electrical current.
Different Types for Different Needs
There are a variety of generators on the market that supply for a range of needs. For instance, portable generators are good for using a few devices, and many people either take them on camping trips or use them to power the essentials during power outages. These contain a small engine and can power refrigerators, phone chargers, and lights. Standby generators are considerably larger, and they are installed permanently to business establishments and homes. Their engines are much larger, and they can kick in to provide power to entire buildings once the outage occurs. The type that you will choose depends on what your needs are and how often you are anticipating needing backup power.
Keeping Things Safe: Voltage and Circuits
Similar to the way your electrical system in your home functions, generators must manage the flow of electricity in a way that is safe. These machines produce electricity at a specific voltage, which is the electrical pressure. They also contain circuit breakers to prevent an overflow of electricity to the circuits that are connected to these machines to make certain that wires do not overheat and cause an electrical fire. When a generator is properly connected to homes or buildings via a transfer switch, generator power flows correctly to appliances and devices without feeding back into power lines, which can be catastrophic for utility workers.
Generators: A Modern Necessity?
Today, we are heavily reliant on electricity for the activities of daily life, such as communication, cooking, and cleaning. We also use electricity to maintain our comfort because it enables the HVAC systems that control the climate in homes and buildings to run. Power is also essential for running our hospitals and allows medical personnel to perform tasks that save lives. When the power goes out, this causes significant disruptions to our lives; this is the reason generators are so critical. These machines provide some normalcy until outages are resolved.
No matter the type of generator you have, maintenance is critical. You should schedule a service call with a professional once each year because this provides an opportunity for you to find and fix small problems before they turn disastrous. For generator maintenance in Jonesboro, AR, reach out to the friendly team at Chamberlain.
