What is an electric power generator?

An electric power generator is an essential device for companies that need to ensure a continuous energy supply. Its main function is to convert mechanical, chemical, or solar energy into electrical energy. This transformation occurs through electromagnetic induction, a physical principle discovered by Michael Faraday, in which a conductor moving within a magnetic field generates an electric current.

Generators are indispensable in scenarios where power grid failures can cause operational and financial losses. Additionally, they allow cost savings during peak hours and provide energy in remote areas.

What are the main components of a power generator?

Engine: source of mechanical energy
The engine is responsible for generating the mechanical energy that will be converted into electricity. It can run on fossil fuels, gas, ethanol, or renewable energy, depending on the generator type.

Alternator: conversion of mechanical energy into electricity
The alternator is the component where the conversion takes place. The engine's motion spins the rotor, creating a magnetic field around the stator, thus generating electricity.

Synchronous alternator: Most common in industrial applications due to better frequency and voltage control.

Asynchronous alternator (induction generator): Simpler and used in less demanding applications.

Direct current alternator (dynamo): Produces DC and is used in specific systems like batteries.

Control panel: command and monitoring
Acts as the brain of the generator, allowing the operator to monitor electrical and mechanical variables such as voltage, current, oil pressure, and temperature.

Battery: starting and maintenance
Responsible for starting the engine and must always be charged. A float charger keeps it at the ideal voltage and prevents damage.

Fuel system: tanks, injectors, and delivery
Made up of a tank, pipes, and pump, this system ensures continuous fuel supply to the engine.

How does a power generator work in practice?

The operation of a generator results from the precise integration of electromechanical components and automated control systems. In business environments, where energy reliability is critical, understanding each step of the process aids in better selection, operation, and maintenance of the equipment.

Step 1: Obtaining the primary energy source
Electricity generation is only possible when the generator has a reliable primary energy source to feed the engine. The most common sources include:

Fossil fuels like diesel and gasoline, widely used due to high energy density and easy storage;

Natural gas, often used where piped gas is available;

Renewable sources like solar (via photovoltaic panels) or wind energy, typically in hybrid systems.

The choice of source directly affects operational cost, emissions, autonomy, and infrastructure needs.

Step 2: Engine start-up
When a power outage is detected, the generator's control system sends a signal to start the engine. This can be automatic (in systems with an Automatic Transfer Switch – ATS) or manual in simpler models.

The engine then produces mechanical energy through internal combustion (in thermal engines) or release from renewable sources. This energy drives the alternator rotor, which converts it into electricity.

Step 3: Energy conversion and distribution
This is the core stage: converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. The engine spins the rotor inside the alternator at high speed, creating a rotating magnetic field.

As the rotor spins, electromagnetic induction occurs: the magnetic field acting on the stator coils generates a voltage difference. This process produces alternating current (AC), the standard electrical form for industrial and commercial use.

The current then passes through voltage regulators and, if needed, transformers, before reaching the facility’s electrical panels to power systems from servers to production lines.

Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS): intelligent switching

The ATS is crucial for autonomous and safe generator operation in business settings. It constantly monitors the utility power status. Upon detecting a failure or critical fluctuation, it:

Sends a start signal to the generator;

Waits for stabilization of voltage and frequency;

Switches the load, disconnecting the utility and connecting the generator.

When utility power stabilizes, the ATS switches back, turning off the generator and reconnecting to the grid. This process occurs automatically, within seconds, avoiding downtime and equipment damage.

Types of power generators: which one to choose?

Choosing the right generator depends on power needs, installation environment, operating costs, and usage objective (continuous, backup, or strategic like during peak hours). Below are the main types:

Combustion generator
The most common for businesses and industries. Uses fossil fuels (diesel, gasoline, or natural gas) to run the engine.

Advantages:

High reliability for critical applications;

Available in various power ranges;

Suitable for continuous or backup use.

Disadvantages:

Pollutant emissions (less for gas models);

Requires regular refueling and fuel management;

Higher noise levels (though there are silent versions).

Typical uses: hospitals, industries, commercial buildings, supermarkets, data centers.

Solar generator (photovoltaic)
Converts solar energy into electricity via solar panels. Can be on-grid or off-grid with batteries.

Advantages:

Renewable, low-maintenance energy source;

Medium to long-term cost reduction;

Ideal for ESG-focused companies.

Disadvantages:

High initial cost, especially with batteries;

Depends on sunlight availability;

Requires installation space.

Typical uses: industrial warehouses, solar farms, sustainability-driven companies.

Steam generator (thermal power)
Generates electricity by burning fuels (coal, fuel oil, or biomass) to produce steam that drives turbines.

Advantages:

Large-scale power generation;

Biomass use can lower environmental impact;

Well-established in power plants.

Disadvantages:

Lower energy efficiency;

High operational complexity;

Requires strong infrastructure and environmental licensing.

Typical uses: power plants, large industries, petrochemical hubs.

Chemical generator
Uses chemical reactions to produce electricity (e.g., batteries). It has no engine or alternator.

Advantages:

Silent, compact, portable;

Ideal for mobile or short-term use;

No combustion involved.

Disadvantages:

Limited power capacity;

Chemical waste disposal concerns;

Not suitable for large-scale business use.

Typical uses: medical devices, electronics, emergency lighting.

Mechanical generator (e.g., hydroelectric)
Uses the kinetic energy of moving fluids (like falling water) to spin turbines.

Advantages:

High efficiency at scale;

Low operating cost after installation;

Great for natural water resources.

Disadvantages:

High implementation cost;

Environmental and regulatory dependencies;

Needs consistent water availability.

Typical uses: hydroelectric plants, microgeneration on farms, rural facilities.

Generator fuels:

Diesel: Durable and ideal for emergency or continuous industrial use.

Natural gas: Efficient and with lower environmental impact, good for stable supply areas.

Ethanol: Emerging option with lower initial cost, but higher consumption.

Where and how to use generators?

Generators are versatile and serve multiple needs:

Businesses and industries: Ensure operational continuity, avoid production halts, data loss, and equipment damage.

Residences: Keep essential appliances, security, and comfort during blackouts.

Construction sites: Power tools and equipment before the grid is available.

Agriculture: Run irrigation, milking, refrigeration, and climate systems in rural areas.

Peak hours: Used to reduce energy costs between 6 PM and 9 PM.

Events and rentals: Power lighting, sound, catering, and climate control in temporary setups.

Planned maintenance: Prevent downtime in hospitals, banks, universities, etc., during internal electrical works.

Motorhomes and camping: Provide power for lighting, refrigeration, and comfort on off-grid trips.

Weddings: Ensure reliability for lighting, sound, and catering in remote venues.

How to choose the ideal generator for your company or home?

Evaluate:

Power sizing: Total wattage of equipment, startup current, and 15–30% safety margin.

Noise level: Crucial for residential or event spaces—choose silent models if needed.

Installation site: Must allow ventilation, protection, maintenance access, and a stable base.

Fuel and supply: Consider availability, price, and environmental goals.

Acquisition and maintenance cost: Total cost of ownership (TCO), including parts, labor, and fuel.

How long can a generator run?

Depends on type, tank capacity, technology, and load. Diesel models can operate over 24 hours with minimal interruptions.

Factors affecting runtime:

Tank size

Load consumption

Cooling system quality

Maintenance status

How is generator maintenance done?

Preventive maintenance ensures reliability even in critical environments.

Benefits:

Prevents breakdowns

Extends equipment life

Saves on emergency repairs

Increases energy efficiency

Corrective maintenance:

Performed after failures

Requires technical diagnostics

Should include technical reporting

Periodic checks:

Oil level and quality

Battery and charger voltage

Leak and screw inspection

Air and fuel filters

Output voltage and frequency

Control panel and sensors

Maintenance history helps:

Spot failure patterns

Decide on repair vs. replacement

Plan spare parts and budget

Justify preventive actions

High-dependency operations should consider contracts with specialized service providers like Geraforte.

Conclusion: how to ensure continuous and efficient energy with generators?

Benefits of working with specialized suppliers:

Technical support for choosing, installing, operating, and maintaining your generator.

Operational safety and productivity gains.

Avoid downtime and protect your business.

Still have questions? Look for a specialized manufacturer like Geraforte, with over 16 years of experience. Our team of engineers is ready to help!