An electric generator is a device that changes kinetic energy to electrical energy through

electromagnetic induction. Electromagnetic induction is the process of generating electric current with
a magnetic field. It occurs when a magnetic field and an electric conductor, such as a coil of wire,
move relative to one another.

What is Electric Generator?

The electric motor, generator, and transformers all work on the principle of electromagnetic induction.
The electric motor converts electrical energy into mechanical work. The electric generator works in
the opposite way of an electric motor. It converts mechanical work into electrical energy. The source
of mechanical energy varies from a wide range of hand cranks and combustion engines.

How does a Generator Work?

An electric generator is a device which is used for the conversion of mechanical energy into electrical
energy.
The principle of working of a generator is such that the flow of electric charges can be induced by
moving an electrical conductor in a magnetic field. Moving the conductor in the magnetic field or
stationary conductor in a fluctuating magnetic field produces a voltage difference between the two
ends of the wire (electrical conductor), thus producing an induced current.
This conversion takes place when the electric charges move in the winding. The modern generation
generators work on the principle of electromagnetic induction. The voltage difference is created
between the two ends of the wire, which results in the flow of electric charges resulting in the
production of electric current.

Components of an Electric Generator

The main components of an electric generator are given below

 The Frame – the structure

 An Engine – source of mechanical energy
 The Alternator – produces an electrical output from the mechanical input
 A Fuel System – to keep the generator operational
 A Voltage Regulator – to regulate the voltage output
 A Cooling System – to regulate heat levels that build up in the system
 A Lubrication System – for durable and smooth operations over a span
 An Exhaust System – to dispose of the waste exhaust gases produced in the process
 A Charger – to keep the battery of the generator charged
 Main Control – the control panel controlling generator interface

Types of Electric Generators

The classification of electric generators depend on the type of electrical energy that is produced,
which is either direct current or alternating current.

 AC generators:AC generators are known as single-phase generators and are limited to 25kW.
 DC generators: These generators are divided into three categories and they are shunt, series,
and compound-wound. Shunt generators are used in battery chargers. Series generators are
used in street lights. While most of the DC generators are compound-wound.
Applications of electric generators

 Electric generators are useful for homes, shops, offices, etc. which face frequent power
outages. They act as a backup to ensure that the appliances receive uninterrupted power supply.
 In distant areas, where electricity from the main line cannot be accessed, electric generators
act as the primary source of power supply.
 When working on project sites where electricity cannot be accessed from the grid, electric
generators can be used for powering machinery or tools.
Uses of an Electric Generator

 They provide the power for most power networks across cities
 Small scale generators provide a good backup for household power needs or small businesses
 At construction sites, before the power is set up, they extensively make use of electric
generators
 Energy efficient as fuel consumption is reduced drastically
 Since they give a range of voltage output, they are used in labs
 They are used to drive motors
 They are used in transportation
Advantage and disadvantage of AC over dc

ADVANTAGES

1. The generation of A.C. is cheaper than that of D.C.

2. A.C. machines are simple , robust and do mot require much attention for their repairs and
maintainance during their use.
3. Wide range of voltages are obtained by the use of transformer.
4. The magnitude of current can be reduced by using an inductance or a conductor without
any appreciable loss of energy
5. A.C. can easily be converted into D.C. with the help of rectifiers.
6. When A.C. is supplied at higher voltages in long distance transmission , the line losses
are small compared to a D.C. transmission
DISADVANTAGES

1. Peak value of A.C. is high and it is dangerous to use so better insulation is required.
2. It attracts person who touches it unlike D.C. which gives a repelling shock.
3. An A.C. is transmitted from surface of the conductor and hence need several strands of
thin wires insulated from each other.

Electric motor
An electric motor is a device used to convert electricity into mechanical energy—opposite to an
electric generator. They operate using principles of electromagnetism, which shows that a force is
applied when an electric current is present in a magnetic field. This force creates a torque on a loop
of wire present in the magnetic field, which causes the motor to spin and perform useful work. Motors
are used in a wide range of applications, such as fans, power tools, appliances, electric vehicles, and
hybrid cars.
Electric Motor main Components

Rotor
The rotor in an electric motor is the moving part, and the main function of this is to rotate the shaft for
generating the mechanical power. Generally, the rotor includes conductors which are laid to carry
currents, and communicate with the magnetic field in the stator.

Bearings
The bearings in the motor mainly give the support to the rotor to activate its axis. The shaft of the
motor expands with the help of the bearings to the load of the motor. As the load forces are used
outside of the bearing, then the load is known as overhung.

Stator
The stator in the motor is the inactive part of the electromagnetic circuit. It includes permanent
magnets or windings. The stator can be built with different thin metal sheets which are known as
laminations. These are mainly used for reducing energy losses.

Air gap
The air gap is the space among the stator and the rotor. The effect of the air gap mainly depends on
the gap. It is the major source for the low power factor of the motor. Once the air gap increases
between the stator & rotor then magnetizing current also increases. Because of this reason, the air
gap should be less.

Windings
Windings in the motors are wires that are laid inside of the coils, generally covered around a flexible
iron magnetic core so as to make magnetic poles while energized with the current. For motor
windings, copper is the most frequently used material. Copper is the most common material for
windings and aluminum is also used although that should be solid to carry a similar electrical load
securely.
Commutator
The commutator is a half ring in the motor which is fabricated with copper. The main function of this is
to link the brushes toward the coil. The commutator rings are used to ensure the flow of current
direction within the coil reverses each half time thus the one surface of the coil is frequently pushed
upwards & the other surface of the coil is pushed downwards.
Types of Electric Motor

Nowadays, most commonly used electrical motors mainly include ac motors and dc motors

AC Motor
AC motors are classified into three types namely induction, synchronous, and linear motors
 Induction motors are classified into two types namely single phase and three phase motors
 Synchronous motors are classified into two types namely hysteresis and reluctance motors
DC Motor
DC motors are classified into two types namely self-excited and separately excited motors
 Self-excited motors are classified into three types namely series, compound and shunt motors
 Compound motors are classified into two types namely short shunt and long shunt motors
Applications of Electrical Motor

The applications of electrical motor include the following.

 The applications of electrical motor mainly include blowers, fans, machine tools, pumps,
turbines, power tools, alternators, compressors, rolling mills, ships, movers, paper mills.
 The electric motor is an essential device in different applications like HVAC- heating ventilating
& cooling equipment, home appliances, and motor vehicles.

USES OF ELECTRIC MOTOR

An electric motor is a device used to convert electrical energy to mechanical energy. Electric motors
are extremely important in modern-day life. They are used in vacuum cleaners, dishwashers,
computer printers, fax machines, video cassette recorders, machine tools, printing presses,
automobiles, subway systems, sewage treatment plants, and water pumping stations, to mention only
a fewapplications.

Advantages of Electrical Motor

Electric motors have several advantages whenever we compare with normal engines which include
the following.

 The primary cost of these motors are low compared with the fossil fuel engines, but the
horsepower rating of both are similar.
 These motors include moving parts, so the lifespan of these motors are longer.
 The capacity of these motors is up to 30,000 hrs as we maintained properly. So each motor
requires little maintenance
 These motors are extremely efficient & automatic control permits for automatic start & stop
functions.
 These motors don’t use fuel because they don’t require the maintenance of engine oil,
otherwise, battery service.
Disadvantages of Electric Motor

The disadvantages of these motors include the following.

 Large electric motors are not easily movable, and consideration should be made for the exact
voltage and current supply
 In some situations, expensive line expansions are mandatory for isolated areas where
electrical power is not accessible.
 Usually, the performance of these motors is more efficient.

ACTIVITY 4
Safety is the responsibility of every person who works for the company to take reasonable care for the
safety of himself and other human beings and the surroundings which may be affected by his acts or
omissions. The important thing to remember is that any working environment is a potentially
dangerous place. A safe attitude is essential because it will help to guard against complacency, and
create a productive working environment for all, so it is crucial to be aware of the risks to health and
safety before an accident happens, and to take steps to remove or control those risks.

The Importance of Electrical Safety

Electrical hazards can be fatal.
As such, it is important to follow the same systematic approach used for other health and safety
issues, when dealing with electrical safety. No one could overstate the importance of Electrical Safety
knowledge. It is imperative to know how to work safely with or within the vicinity of electricity because
electrical current in regular businesses and homes have enough power that if exposed to, can be
fatal. A training course for staff can help!
 Four main types of electrical injuries
All electrical systems can potentially cause harm. Four of the main types of injuries that occur as a
result of electrical current include:

1. electrocution,
2. electric shock,
3. burns, and
4. falls.
These types of incidents can occur in various instances. Through direct contact with electrical energy,
electricity can travel through the body can interfere with regular electrical signals between the brain
and our muscles. This can lead to instances where the heart may stop beating regularly, breathing
may stop and other bodily function may shut down. Arc Flashes can result in intense burns or an
intense light that can cause blindness.
Electrical Safety Regulation
Electrical safety is regulated by WorkPlace Health and Safety Regulations which states that every
employer is responsible for ensuring that all employees are safe from injuries and risks to health while
at the workplace.

A group comprised of employers and workers should be used to identify all hazards associated with
electrical equipment. Assessing the risk is imperative in reducing the risk, or severity of an injury.

Controlling risks
One can control a risk by using controls such as residual current devices (RCDs) –safety switches, or
a system of regular inspection of portable electrical equipment and extension cords, frequent
monitoring, record keeping and testing of electrical equipment.

Electricity is one of nature’s most powerful and dangerous forces; in fact, electricity is one of the
leading causes of death at work. It is unsafe for the untrained to conduct DIY electrical work. It is
simply not worth the risk. Saving money is not worth a life.

Besides being extremely dangerous, it is also against the law and could potentially jeopardise
insurance. It is therefore highly recommended that people employ a licensed electrical contractor

Tasks that may seem simple for your everyday handy-man husband can prove quite hazardous if not
performed by a professional. This can include tasks such as the installation of a new power point,
installing a replacement light switch, or repairing an appliance such as a ceiling fan, washing
machine, or air condition unit.

Electricity Safety Training

Training can provide employees with the knowledge and skill, to effectively identify and potentially
eliminate safety issues.

Some issues discussed in Electricity Safety Programs include;

 Electricity and the Human Body

 Electricity: General Principles
 Electrical Equipment
 Electrical Hazards
 Working with Electricity
 Protection, Isolation and Testing
 Overhead, Underground and Hidden Electricity

Difference Between Hazard and Danger

• Categorized under Words | Difference Between Hazard and Danger
Hazard vs Danger
Warning signs are visible everywhere; on the road, in train stations, and in most public places. Two of
the very common words that can be found in these warning signs are “danger” and “hazard.” While
both refer to a risk or threat, they are two distinct words.
A hazard is a condition that presents a risk or threat to the environment as well as an individual’s life,
property, or health. It is something that does not exist but is a possibility that an individual will fall
victim to an injury or misfortune. It is an unpredictable and yet unknown experience or occurrence that
may result in pain, illness, loss, or injury. Examples of hazards are confined spaces, awkward
positions, protruding objects, and the presence of stored electrical, chemical, mechanical, and
radioactive energy.
Hazards can be natural such as those posed by volcanoes and tornadoes; man-made such as
activities like flying or engaging in extreme sports; or the result of breaking or violating a legal,
physical, or moral boundary. A hazard may also be dormant wherein the circumstance still has the
potential to be hazardous but still does not affect people, property, or the environment. It can be
armed wherein people, property, and the environment are placed in harm’s way. Once a harmful
incident has occurred, it is an active hazard and would create an emergency situation.

The term comes from the Old French word “hasard” which means “dice game” which is derived from
the Arabic “az-zahr” which means “the gaming die.”

On the other hand, the term “danger” comes from the Middle English word “daunger” which means
“power” or “peril” which is derived from the Old French “dangier” from the Latin “dominus” which
means “master.” In the English language it came to refer to the power to cause harm. It is a situation
where an individual is susceptible to harm or one wherein he is exposed or put at risk. It may or may
not be something that is clearly evident or known. A dangerous incident can be serious, but it can
also be as mild as the danger of cutting your finger when slicing onions.

“Hazard” is usually used to refer to something that is extremely serious or very damaging. It is used in
warning signs to indicate the severity of the situation. It is used to refer to dangers that are bigger and
more serious while “danger” is used to generally refer to risky situations whether big or small.

Summary:

1.A hazard is a condition that presents a threat to an individual, property, or the environment while
danger is a situation where an individual is put at risk or is susceptible to a possible hazard.
2.A hazard is usually used to refer to risky situations that are very serious or life-threatening while
danger is used in a more general way to refer to risky situations that may cause slight or serious
damage.
3.The word “hazard” comes from the Arabic word “az-zahr” while the word “danger” comes from the
Latin word “dominus.”
Difference between ACCIDENT and INCIDENT
Incident can refer to any event – big or small, good or bad, intentional or unintentional. A bank
robbery, a funny or controversial situation, an argument between celebrities, etc. – all can be
described as incidents.

An accident is a bad event caused by error or by chance. Accidents are always unintentional, and
they usually result in some damage or injury. A car crash is one example of an accident. If some
equipment malfunctions in a factory and injures the workers, that is also an accident. Examples of
very minor accidents are when you step on someone’s foot or spill your coffee on someone else. You
didn’t want or plan to do it.
All accidents can ALSO be described as incidents – but NOT all incidents are accidents.

If a drunk driver runs his car into a group of people, that is an accident (he did not intend to do it; it
was caused by alcohol and chance). It could also be described as an incident (“The incident
occurred on Main Street at around 2:30 AM”).
If three people were arrested after fighting in a bar, that is an incident (but not an accident – because
the fight was not by chance; they intended to fight).
10 safety rules

1. DON’T plug a bunch of stuff into one outlet or extension cord. It could damage the electrical
system in your house or even cause a fire. Show children how plugs work, and let them know that
even if they are curious about the slits of an electrical outlet, nothing else should be placed inside.
Our reliance on electronics and gadgets is a risk when family members overcrowd electrical outlets,
continue to use frayed wires, place devices near liquids or leave electronics on for long periods of
time.

2. Make sure all electric cords are tucked away, neat and tidy. Pets might chew on electrical
cords, and people might trip and fall.

3. DON’T ever climb the fence around an electrical substation. If a ball or pet gets inside the
fence, contact your local electric utility for assistance—they’ll come and get it out for you.

4. DON’T yank an electrical cord from the wall. Pulling on a cord can damage the appliance, plug
or outlet.

5. Fly your kite far away from power lines or substations. Fly kites and model airplanes in large
open areas like a park or a field, safely away from trees and overhead power lines. If a kite gets stuck
in a tree that’s near power lines, don’t climb up to get it. Contact your local electric cooperative for
assistance. The kite and the string may conduct electricity—sending it right through you to the
ground.

6. Ask a grown-up for help when you need to use something that uses electricity.

7. DO look up and look out for power lines before you climb a tree. The electricity can go right
through the tree branch—and right through you!

8. Have a grown-up put safety caps on all unused electrical outlets. Covering outlets will also
help save energy by stopping cold drafts.

9. Remind your mom or dad to watch out for power lines when they’re using a ladder, chainsaw
or other outdoor equipment.

10. Keep electrical stuff far away from water. Water and electricity never mix. Use caution before
plugging in a radio, CD player, or any electrical gadget outdoors, and keep all electrical appliances at
least 10 feet away from hot tubs, pools, ponds, puddles and wet surfaces.

1. Avoid water at all times when working with electricity. Never touch or try repairing any electrical
equipment or circuits with wet hands. It increases the conductivity of the electric current.

2. Never use equipment with frayed cords, damaged insulation or broken plugs.

3. If you are working on any receptacle at your home then always turn off the mains. It is also a good
idea to put up a sign on the service panel so that nobody turns the main switch ON by accident.

4. Always use insulated tools while working.

5. Electrical hazards include exposed energized parts and unguarded electrical equipment which may
become energized unexpectedly. Such equipment always carries warning signs like “Shock Risk”.
Always be observant of such signs and follow the safety rules established by the electrical code
followed by the country you’re in.

6. Always use appropriate insulated rubber gloves and goggles while working on any branch circuit or
any other electrical circuit.

7. Never try repairing energized equipment. Always check that it is de-energized first by using a
tester. When an electric tester touches a live or hot wire, the bulb inside the tester lights up showing
that an electrical current is flowing through the respective wire. Check all the wires, the outer metallic
covering of the service panel and any other hanging wires with an electrical tester before proceeding
with your work.

8. Never use an aluminum or steel ladder if you are working on any receptacle at height in your
home. An electrical surge will ground you and the whole electric current will pass through your body.
Use a bamboo, wooden or a fiberglass ladder instead.

9. Know the wire code of your country.

10. Always check all your GFCI’s once a month. A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) is a RCD
(Residual Current Device). They have become very common in modern homes, especially damp
areas like the bathroom and kitchen, as they help avoid electrical shock hazards. It is designed to
disconnect quickly enough to avoid any injury caused by over current or short circuit faults.