Generator
Generators are useful appliances that supply electrical power during a power outage and prevent discontinuity of daily activities or disruption of business operations.
Common types of generator
Based on their application there are four types of generators;
1. Portable generators
2. Inverter generator
3. Standby generators
4. Industrial generators
1. Portable generators
Portable generators usually use for residential purposes and smaller commercial establishments such as retail outlets and shops, at construction site for powering smaller tools, camping, outdoor weddings and outdoor events. As its fuel source portable generator use gas or diesel and it also uses combustion engine to produce electricity.
Features of portable generators are:
- Can plug into electrical appliances or tools via its sockets.
- Has enough power to run a television, freezer and refrigerator
- Use a governor to control the engine’s speed.
2. Inverter generator
Inverter generators uses for appliances such as air conditioners, refrigerators, automobiles, boats and recreational vehicles which need particular values of voltage and frequency which inverter generators are capable of providing. Inverter generators produce AC power and by using rectifier that converts the AC power into DC power and then inverts it to AC to provide steady current to appliances.
Characteristics of inverter generators are:
- Depends on high-tech magnets.
- Uses advanced electronic circuitry.
- Maintains a constant following of current to an appliance.It is more energy-efficient, as the engine speed adjusts itself according to how much power is needed.
- Tends to be lightweight.
3. Standby generators
Stand by generators commonly used in residential apartments, hotels, restaurants, hospitals, and commercial establishments connected to grid power. This generators also known as backup generators they are considered to be an emergency power system that uses gas or diesel as their fuel source.
Standby generators works up to 48 hours because of their external large tank. When there is a power outbreak, an automatic transfer switch on these generators are activated for powering a device. Their ability to deliver permanent power protection, their automatic operation as well as using an internal combustion engine make them common choice on the market. This generator starts operating to supply the required electricity after a few seconds of the power loss. This type of generator need regular service and maintenance.
Characteristics of Standby generators are:
- Operates automatically.
- It has two components: a standby generator and an automatic transfer switch.
- Can operate on liquid propane or natural gas.
- Used in safety systems for elevators, standby lighting, medical and life support equipment, and fire protection systems.
4. Industrial generators
Industrial generator has different applications as compared to other small power generators. Industrial generator delivers a varied range of power supply from 20 kW to 2500 kW, from 48 to 120 volt, and single-phase to three-phase supply.
Characteristics of Industrial generators are:
- High energy efficiency.
- The generator will start and provide continuous power, in case of power failure.
- Industrial generators deliver energy at long distances with high efficiency.
In This Article
Did You Know About Generator and it’s Purpose?
What Are Different Types of Generator Based on their application And It’s Characteristic?
Portable generator
Inverter generator
Standby generator
