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Orsud Riari
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Asked: 2020-12-04T20:59:00+00:00 In:

What is the difference between a generator and alternator?

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Alternators and generators are electrical machines which are used to produce electric power through magnetic polarisation, with the primary objective of converting mechanical energy into electrical energy.

Alternators are also known as a type of generator. Although the function of both of the devices is the same, their operation is different from each other.

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    2 Answers

    1. Level 1

      Generators are mechanical devices which convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. They can be either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). They are used to produce a bulk of power for running large scale operations.

      Similar to generators, alternators use a common process to transform mechanical energy into electrical energy. Alternators are also known as a synchronous generator because they convert mechanical energy into electrical at specific voltage and frequency. Alternators are energy-efficient devices as compare to generators because they can produce energy only when required, whereas generator produced power constantly.

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    3. Level 1
      This answer was edited.

      Differences between alternators and generators

      • The major difference between alternator and generator is that the generator can produce alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) whereas alternator only produces alternating current (AC).
      • The usage of both the devices is different as alternators are widely used in the automotive sector to charge the batteries of the car. Contrary to this, generators are mostly found in residential, industrial and commercial areas as a source of power. They are suitable for both outdoor and emergency activities.
      • Alternators can produce higher output in comparison to generators.
      • The process of the production of electricity is also different from each other. In alternators, the production of power is done through the rotation of magnetic fields within the stator. While the generation of electricity in generators is produced by winding wires in a defined magnetic field.
      • After installation, there is no need for alternator polarization while in generators, the polarisation is essential after installation.
      • Generators have a low range of revolution per minute (RPM) whereas alternators have a wide range of RPM.
      • Generators require a large space for installation. In contrast, alternators are generally smaller in size than generators.
      • Charging of dead batteries cannot be done through alternators. If we use alternators to charge dead batteries, it may result in the burning of blowing up the battery. A generator can be used for charging the dead batteries.
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