The major point that differentiates between a generator and an alternator is that the armature rotates in a generator, and the field is stationary. In contrast, in an alternator, the armature is stationary, and the field rotates. The generators are larger and need more space to fit in, whereas the alternators are generally small.
Before going into other differences between the two, let’s take a look into what is generator and alternator in depth.
What Is A Generator?
A generator is a kind of machine which converts mechanical energy into electrical power or energy. It can provide alternative current (A.C.) or direct current (D.C.).
The rotor, which is found inside a generator, is made of coiled wires. The rotating of these coiled wires generates electricity, whereas the magnetic field housing remains stationary. This rotation of the coils with a stationary magnet makes a magnetic field, which utilizes the mechanical energy to spin the armature.
The armature is the series of coils or rotating coil in an electrical motor. When it’s rotating, it becomes effortless to create low voltage excitation to a rotor via the slip rings.
One will opt for a generator when more electricity is required. This is because they generate voltage throughout the whole device without stopping. Thus, generators are seen as the best option for a power backup at homes and R.V.S.
What Is An Alternator?
An alternator is a unique generator that converts mechanical power from a prime mover to an A.C. electrical power. It does so at a specified voltage and frequency. The machine is mostly used in the auto industry to convert mechanical energy into electrical power used to charge a car battery.
The mechanical process rotates a magnet and generates a current distributes energy without converting it to direct current.
Alternators are more efficient since they only produce energy when it is required. When the battery needs to recharge, the alternator can come on and off. Due to this, your car will not die when it’s running for a long time. If your car battery dies while the alternator is still running, then it means an alternator is bad since it doesn’t provide a charge to your battery.
The main thing to note is that alternators cannot charge a fully drained battery. This can cause fires and more damages.
Difference Between Generators And Alternator
| Differentiating Property | Generator | Alternator |
| Definition | A generator is simply a mechanical device that converts mechanical energy to either alternative current (A.C.) or direct current (D.C.) electrical energy | It is a kind of machine that converts mechanical energy into Alternative current (A.C.) electrical energy. |
| Output current | A generator can produce either alternating or direct current | An alternator generates only an alternating current |
| Output | Generators have a lower output than alternators | Alternators have a higher output when compared with a generator |
| Energy Efficiency | Generators are less efficient than alternators | Alternators are considered more efficient |
| Magnetic field | The magnetic field is fixed or stationery where the armature winding spins | The magnetic field rotates inside a stator |
| Energy conservation | Generators use all the energy that is generated and thus, conserve less energy | Alternators use only the needed amount of energy, and so, they conserve more energy |
| Polarization after installation | Alternators need no polarization whatsoever | Generators should be polarized after installation |
| Input supply | It takes input supply from a rotor | It takes input supply from a stator |
| R.P.M. (Rotation Per Minute) Range | They have a low range of R.P.M. | They have a wide range of R.P.M. |
| Armature movement | Their armature is rotating | Their armature is stationary |
| Size | They are larger and need more space to fit in | They are smaller in size |
| Voltage Generation | They produce voltage every time | They generate voltage only when required |
| Brush efficiency | Their brushes last lesser than that of an alternator | Their brushes last longer |
| Charging of a Dead battery | They can be used to charge a dead battery | They will never charge a dead battery |
| Uses | They are majorly used to generate large-scale electricity | They are used in the automobile business to charge the car battery |
Why Do Cars Use Alternators Instead Of Generators?
An alternator is a unique type of electrical generator used in the automobile industry to charge the car battery. With the obtainability of suitable silicon diode rectifiers in alternators, alternators are used instead of generators.
What Is An Alternator In A Generator?
A generator alternator is like the heart of the generator. The alternator is a portion of a generator that generates electrical energy from the engine’s mechanical energy supplied to it.
How Does A 3-Phase Alternator Differ From A D.C. Generator?
The alternator induces the alternative current (A.C.) while the generator can generate either the alternative current (A.C.) or Direct current (D.C.). The generator creates the A.C., which can be converted to A.C. with the help of a commutator. An alternator armature is fixed, and for the generator, it is rotating
Which Is More Dangerous, A.C. Or D.C., And Why?
Alternative current is 4 to 5 times more dangerous than direct current. A.C can lead to severe muscular contractions. The frequency of alternating current has many effects on the human body. Sixty cycles are considered the most harmful range. Within 25 volts of this frequency, the A.C. can kill.
How Do I Know If My Alternator Is Bad?
Check for no-starting and trouble starting, dimming lights, and the problem with stereo system output. If you found out that your car starts stalls when you’re underway, the alternator is faulty.
Why Is An Alternator Better Than A Dynamo?
An alternator is better since it is a three-phase unit, whereas a dynamo is a single unit. So, the alternator will offer higher charge rates at slow speeds, given that one rotation of the pulley will cut via three magnetic flux fields as opposed to one.
Final Word
Although both the generators and alternators create power in electricity, they have significant differences. The way they do it is what makes the difference, and they each have their advantages and disadvantages. If you are looking for backup power for your home, then generators are the best, while alternators work best in
