A generator is a device which produces energy of various types as a result of input stimulation. For an electric power generator, this can be from wind, water or carbon fuel like petrol or diesel. In all cases, the Generator spins, and passes through magnetic fields within its casing, and this produces power.
Generators are available as suitcase types, compact small power units carried like a carry case. Others are more powerful and can be pushed along on wheels as they are heavy. Domestic generators are usually “single Phase” units- usually 230 volts with a single outlet or 2 outlets of a 3 pin power point on the control panel. Semi and full industrial units are “Three Phase” units, usually putting out more than 12 Kilowatts and much higher power voltages from 380 volts up to many thousands of volts. These units are unless trailer mounted are not mobile. These are identified by the absence of normal power points, instead having large switch panels usually at the end of the generator housing.
Generators can be utilised in all spheres of life, as standby power; semiprime power or prime power, where the generator/s are relied upon to produce power as if it were generated by a supply authority. Generators are around 80% efficient so need to be overrated for a given task by as much as 20%. The inefficiency is called “slip” arising from the delay caused whereby the generator armature passes through the magnetic fields and the power needs to be ramped up. This never quite gets to peak as the fields are very confined and armatures pass through these fields very fleetingly.
Generators can produce inordinate amounts of power; limited only to the power input- usually a generator uses more power input to produce a given output. Example: If your generator is expected to produce say 5 Kilowatts at 230 volts (Single phase), it will need a minimum input power of 6.5 Kilowatts of mechanical energy to do so efficiently.
Usually cheaper than other power options only cost wise, generators can be bought for almost unlimited uses.
Generators are very noisy. Generators attract unkind remarks from neighbours and spark neighbourly warfare; they belch out carbon emissions and are very costly to operate - remember you need to put in more mechanical power than you are going to use.
Generators are also very high-cost items to operate, with maintenance and refuelling being regularly needed.
Cheric Energy offers all types of generators for sale throughout South Africa. If you need a small or large unit, we can supply your needs. Petrol, diesel, silent, non-silent, wheels or sled, handle or trolley models of high quality. Affordable silent gas generators are an excellent option which can also be connected to natural gas.