Generators - Everything You Need To Know

Generators are used all over the world in a wide range of different situations from domestic, to businesses and health organisations to provide electricity when it is unavailable from the local grid. They are also used as a primary power source in areas where energy is difficult to access, such as on the construction site, in mining, farming operations etc.

How Do Generators Work?

The electrical generator itself is a standalone machine which coverts mechanical or chemical energy into electrical energy. This is achieved by capturing electrons from an external force (the mechanical energy) and forcing it through an electrical circuit. An electrical motor functions by a similar process to that of the generator, although in reverse – rather than mechanical energy being transformed into electrical energy (as is the case of the generator), electrical current is transformed into mechanical energy. The origins of the modern-day generator are often attributed to the principals of electromagnetic induction, discovered by Michael Faraday in 1831-32.

Different Types of Generators

Smaller generators typically rely on fossil fuels to create mechanical power – these types of generators are widely used on construction projects, however larger generators of electrical power use other sources such as water, hydro dams or wind turbines. On the commercial market, there are two main types of generator available – standby and portable.

Standby Generators

This type of generator is permanently installed outside homes or commercial buildings and is used in the event of disruption to the main power supply – the standby generator can either be manually switched on or will start automatically upon detection of a failure to the power supply. Such generators are a common feature in hospitals as well as in residential buildings in some parts of the world, they are typically fuelled by diesel, petrol or gas.

Portable Generators

There are various different types of portable generator available – these come in a variety of models with differing power capacities and functions.

Portable generators offer numerous uses including but not limited to the following, residential buildings, offices, emergency medical equipment, construction sites, development projects, hospitality and events, as well as other industrial and recreational purposes such as camping.

One industry which relies heavily on portable generators is on the construction site where they are used for powering heavy duty equipment and power tools – much of which requires a high-power capacity.

Choosing the Right Generator

When choosing a generator, it is advisable to consider the following:

• Intended purpose of use – it is a good idea to choose a generator which is rated slightly higher than the current usage total.
• The power capacity/wattage capacity required - in order to determine exactly what the wattage requirements are, it will be necessary to find out the start-up wattage and running wattage of each intended item of use. Some pieces of equipment demand more power during start-up, up to 3 to 4 times as much, it is therefore a good idea to check with the manufacturer of each product for an exact measurement.
• Running Time - portable generator running time typically varies from between 3 to 9 hours, with some types able to run for longer periods of time. When purchasing a portable generator, it is worth considering how long the generator needs to run for without refuelling.
• Outlets - how many power outlets will be required and does the generator have the right type of outlet for the intended equipment? Some pieces of equipment are sensitive and must have safe power outlets.
• Noise - depending on the location, excess noise may be an issue – if this is the case, then a generator with rubber shock absorbers will help to reduce engine vibration. There are some models available with additional advanced muffler systems to keep the noise to a minimum.
• Weight - heavier portables usually offer higher capacity and are often equipped with wheels and folding handles making them easier to move around. Lightweight portables are relatively easy to move around and more suitable for recreational use, camping etc.

Generator Features

Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR)

Most modern generators come with AVR as standard – this feature prevents voltage fluctuations which may harm sensitive electronic equipment. Newer generators offer digital automatic voltage regulation, a marked improvement on standard AVR.

Circuit Breakers

Circuit breakers are installed into all generators – these shut down the flow of power if there is an excessive current passing through, preventing damage from occurring to connected equipment.

Automatic Safety Features

Automatic safety shut down features mean the generator will automatically shut itself down in the case of unsafe operating conditions such as high temperatures, low oil levels or oil pressure etc.

Liquid Cooling Systems

Generators fitted with liquid cooling systems are able to run more quietly and reliably.

Other features:

• Automatic idling
• Automatic compression release
• Electronic ignition
• Automatic choke

Operative Risks

Electrocution

To avoid the risk of electrocution, generators must be kept dry and not used in the rain or snow. A generator should never be handled with wet hands. Care should also be taken when connecting to mains electricity – connecting incorrectly can be extremely dangerous.

Carbon Monoxide

Generators should only ever be operated outside – exhaust fumes produced by the generator contain toxic carbon monoxide which can be fatal.

Fire Safety

Whilst in operation, generators can become extremely hot and can easily cause burns.

• Flammable material should be stored away from the generator
• No naked flames or anything which may spark should be near the generator
• The generator should be maintained a minimum distance of 1 metre away from any building whilst in use
• The muffler should never be touched while it is still hot
• The fuel tank must not be overfilled

Our Products

AT Wilde & Son supply a wide product range of parts, engines and generators by all leading manufacturers. For more advice and assistance choosing your generator, get in touch today.