An electrical machine that converts mechanical energy input into electrical energy output is called a generator or electrical generator. There are two types of generators, AC Generators and DC Generator. An AC generator has an electromagnet while a DC generator has a permanent magnet. AC generators have commutators while DC generators have slip rings.

In this article, we will learn what is AC and DC Generators and the Difference Between AC and DC Generator. There are some important differences between AC and DC Generator which we will understand below through the difference table but before that let us understand better what is AC and DC Generator.

What is AC Generator?

A generator that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy in the form of alternating current is called an AC generator. The principle on which an AC generator works is electromagnetic induction.

A machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy is called an AC generator or alternator.

The electrical energy generated is in the form of an alternating current sinusoidal output wave. Steam turbines, gas turbines, and combustion engines commonly supply mechanical energy.

Field, armature, prime mover, rotor, stator, and slip ring are the various components of AC generator.

The principle on which an AC generator works is Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction, which states that an electromotive force EMF or voltage- is produced in a current carrying conductor that intersects a uniform magnetic field in either a Can be obtained by rotating a conducting coil in constant.

AC Generator Working

When the armature rotates between the poles of the magnet on an axis perpendicular to the magnetic field, the flux attaching to the armature is continuously changing.

Due to this emf is induced in the armature. It generates electric current through galvanometer and slip rings and brushes.

The galvanometer oscillates between positive and negative values. This indicates that an alternating current is flowing through the galvanometer.

What is DC Generator?

A machine that converts mechanical energy into DC (direct current) electricity is a DC generator. The DC generator uses the principle of energetically induced electromotive force.

When the conductor reduces the magnetic flux, an EMF will be generated based on the electromagnetic induction principle of Faraday’s laws. The electromotive force produced when a conductor circuit is closed can cause the flow of current.

DC Generator Working

DC generator works on Faraday’s principle of electromagnetic induction which tells us that if an index conductor is rotated in a magnetic flux, then E.M.F (Electromotive force) is generated on that conductor and lasts as long as the conductor continues to rotate.

According to this theory, field, conductor, and motion are all three required to generate voltage. Prime mover is used to rotate the armature.

Prime movers can be diesel engines, water powered machines, wind mills etc. It is run by AC motor.

Difference Between AC and DC Generator

Till now we have learned above what is called Ac and Dc Generator. If you have read all the things given above carefully, then you must have understood well about the difference between AC and DC Generator.

If you still have any confusion in understanding what is AC and DC Generator and what is the difference between them, then now we are going to tell you some important differences between them below.