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The Advantages and Limitations of an Alternating Current Generator Motor

There are a number of benefits to AC generator motors such as no requirement for matching voltages and a very simple design; but there are also certain drawbacks such as higher insulation levels. A majority of commercial properties rely on AC power supply to operate the large-scale electrical equipment and appliances that exist on their property.

Alternating Current results from movement of the electrical charge via a medium and the direction of this movement varies over a period of time. But this doesn’t happen with DC current that only has a single direction for the movement.

The basics of AC generators

AC generators are electromagnetic devices that convert mechanical energy into the electrical power that is required for various electromagnetic induction applications. These devices have rectangular wired coils that rotate on an axis. The coils lie between the poles of the two magnets that are permanent. When the coils rotate, that results in changes to the magnetic field; and the process then creates an electromotive force between the ends of the coils.

AC generators – The benefits

• For the large part, an AC motor has a very simple structure, because the only moving part it has is the rotor.
• This also makes it easier to maintain these generators.
• They have a quiet operation.
• Cost of ownership is lower.
• Longer lifespan compared to DC motors that have a commutator and carbon brushes that wear out over a period of time. These require regular replacement through the life of the system.
• AC motors don’t have a smell that’s very typical of DC motors; in the latter, this is caused by components that are more prone to friction.
• An AC generator allows users to covert its current to other voltages with the use of transformers; and these are compatible only with an AC generator and not with a DC generator.

AC generators – The limitations

While there are a number of benefits to opting for AC generators, there are certain limitations as well, such as:

• These systems require additional insulation because of the greater voltages needed to supply a fixed level of power.
• This poses a challenge when it comes to handling AC generators in a safe manner.
• Working with Alternating current systems has some distinct risks and difficulties compared to what can be expected from DC motors.
• While the use of a transformer is an advantage in AC systems, to a certain degree that can prove to be a limitation as well. This is because the motors then require a specific design which becomes a hindrance to a higher voltage discharge generated from one side. But since there is no other efficient method of generating high voltages, it becomes necessary to utilise transformers to ease the long-distance transmissions. These transmissions occur as soon as the lower voltage converts to the required higher levels.
• Aside from this, Alternating Current power is more prone to overheating and sparks because it produces higher currents and this particular phenomenon can result in electrical shock as well as fires. The latter can cause a significant amount of damage to property and pose a threat to lives as well.
• In addition to all these risks, an AC generator isn’t as durable as a DC generator.

Just as DC generator systems have certain benefits, there are specific advantages and disadvantages to AC generators as well. But the benefits of using AC systems tend to outweigh the downsides which make them a better option overall.

If you want to know more about our power products and services, don’t hesitate to contact us at KaRaTec Power Supply Pty. You can give us a call at 612 9808 1127. You can also fill in this contact us form.

Thanks for reading,
Karatec Power Supply Pty
612 9808 1127