An alternator is an electromechanical device that converts mechanical

energy to alternating current electrical energy. Actually, DC and AC generators

are similar in one important respect – they both generate alternating emfs. In the
DC generator, the alternating voltage is rectified through the medium of a
commutator and brushes, whereas the AC generator has no rectifier and
delivers AC electric energy to its loads.

General Types of Alternator

1. Synchronous Generator
2. Induction Generator
3. Inductor Alternator

Two Possible Construction of an Alternator

1. Stationary field and a revolving armature

2. Stationary armature and a revolving field

Prime Movers for Alternators

1. Large AC Generators

a) Steam Turbine
b) Hydraulic Turbine
c) Gas Turbine
d) Internal Combustion Engine

2. Small AC Generators

a) Internal Combustion Engine

Frequency of Alternating-Current Generators

Whenever the poles of a two-pole alternator revolve, the generated emf in

the stationary armature winding changes direction every half revolution; therefore
one complete positive and negative pulse, one cycle will occur in one revolution.
So, the frequency per revolution is equal to the number of pairs of poles.
Moreover, it is clear that the frequency of the emf in an alternator is proportional
to:

a) The speed in revolutions per second (rpm/60)

b) The number of pairs of poles (p/2)
The relationship may be written in the form of the equation:

f = PNs eqn. 1
120
Where: f = frequency, Hz or cps
P= no. of poles
Ns =synchronous speed, rpm

Generated Voltage in an Alternator

“an average of 1 volt is generated in one turn of wire if the flux passing
through that turn changes at the rate of 100,000,000 (108) maxwells per second”

This is the fundamental law of generator action or in equation form, this

statement become:

Eave = N Φ x 108 eqn. 2

t

Where: Eave = average generated voltage

N = number of turns in coil
Φ = flux per pole
t = time (seconds)