Advantages and Disadvantages of AC Generators
Most commercial areas rely on AC to power a wide range of electrical appliances and pieces of equipment. AC results from the movement of the electrical charge through a medium. The direction of movement varies over time. This variation is not the case with DC since it only involves a single direction for its movement.
AC Generator Basics
An AC generator is a type of electromagnetic device, responsible for converting mechanical energy into electrical power, essential in electromagnetic induction applications. This device comes with a rectangular coil of wire, and this component rotates on an axis. This coil lays between the poles of the two permanent magnets. The rotation of the coil leads to the changes in the magnetic field. Thus, the process generates an electromotive force between the coil’s ends.
Benefits of AC Generators
The following are among the advantages you can expect from AC generators in your facility:
Simple Design
Mostly, an AC motor comes with a simple design since it only contains a single moving part, the rotor. As a result, AC motors are easier to maintain, cheaper to own, quieter with how it operates and lasts longer compared to DC motors. In fact, DC motors have carbon brushes and a commutator that tends to wear out. These have to be replaced throughout the life of the motor. There is also a loud noise and a distinct smell typical with a DC motor due to the friction produced by its components.
Promotes Power Consumption
Back in the 1800s, Tesla patented the first AC motor used with the AC power. Such innovation became popular in factories and industries in the United States.
Matching Voltage unnecessary
For optimal use, it is important for a DC generator to produce a voltage at a certain level. The AC generator allows you to convert the current to another voltage using a transformer. In fact, transformers are compatible with AC, but not with DC.
Limitations of AC Generators
Although there are benefits you expect from AC generators, there are some limitations to consider. Among these are:
Insulation is Important
There is a higher level of insulation because of the massive voltages required to supply a fixed amount of power from an AC motor. As a result, there is a challenge in the safe handling of AC generators. Working with AC may pose some difficulties and risks, as compared to what you can expect from DC motors.
Transformer Use
While it may also be an advantage, we also consider the need for a transformer as a limitation of AC generators. For instance, the motors need a special design that prevents the discharge of the higher voltage generated on one side. Since it is not possible for an efficient way to generate high voltages, it is necessary to use a transformer to ease long-distance transmission. This transmission occurs once the low voltage converts to a much greater level than necessary.
Issues Involved
AC power may be susceptible to sparks and overheating because of its production of high currents. Such a phenomenon results in electric shock and fires. These fires are detrimental to the properties and lives of your employees. Besides these safety risks, AC generators appear to be less durable considering its need to produce massive currents resulting in such hazards.
Bottom Line
AC remains to be popular in many applications up to this present time. Just as with DC, there are benefits and drawbacks involved in using an AC generator. Regarding cost, reliability, and efficiency, the advantages of AC appear to outweigh the limitations involved.
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Originally published at www.lselectric.com on April 27, 2017.
