Last Updated on November 25, 2022 by mdmtool
Electric motors and generators are essential parts of the modern world and have their unique roles to play. The two devices are very similar in their operating principle, but they have some critical differences.
Electric Motor
An electric motor is a machine that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. The reverse would be converting mechanical energy into electrical energy, which is done by an electric generator.
Electric Generator
An electric generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. An electric motor reverses electrical power into mechanical energy, and motors and generators have many similarities. Both machines have an armature that revolves in a magnetic field. They use commutators to reverse the current in the armature winding, and both machines can be run as either motors or generators.
Difference Between Electric Motors And Generators
Following are some differences between electric motors and generators:
- Use: Electric motors are used in various applications, from small household appliances to large industrial machines. They are also used in hybrid and electric vehicles. Generators are typically used to produce electricity, either for backup power or for utility-scale power generation.
- Type of energy: An electric motor is a device that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, while a generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.
- Applications: An electric motor is typically used to power devices that require a rotational force, such as fans, pumps, and compressors. On the other hand, a generator is typically used to power devices that require an electrical current, such as lights and batteries.
- Construction: An electric motor consists of a rotating armature powered by an electric current. A generator also has a rotating armature, but it is powered by a mechanical force, such as a gasoline engine or a water turbine.
- Efficiency: Electric motors are typically more efficient than generators. This is because they do not have to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, which can result in losses.
- Cost: Electric motors are typically more expensive than generators. This is because they are more complex devices requiring more materials to construct.
- Designed : Electric motors are typically designed for specific applications. For example, motors are designed for cars, boats, and aircraft. On the other hand, generators are typically designed to be versatile and can be used for various applications.
- Portability: Electric motors are typically more portable than generators. This is because they are smaller and lighter devices.
- Working principle: The working principle of an electric motor is based on the interaction between a magnetic field and an electric current. The working principle of a generator is based on the interaction between a mechanical force and a magnetic field.
- Properties: The main properties of an electric motor are its speed, torque, and power. The main properties of a generator are its voltage, amperage, and power.
- Supply and control: Electric motors are powered by an electric current, which a battery or a power grid can supply. Generators are powered by a mechanical force, such as a gasoline engine or a water turbine.
- Cost: Electric motors are typically more efficient than generators but are also more expensive.
- Versatility: Electric motors are usually designed for specific applications, while generators are designed to be versatile. Electric motors are also more portable than generators.
- The direction of current flow: In an electric motor, the current flows through the armature in one direction. The current flows through the armature in two directions in a generator.
Which Rule Is Followed By Electric Motors?
An electric motor’s rule is that when the current flows through the coil, it creates a magnetic field. This, in turn, interacts with the permanent magnet and causes the rotor to rotate.
Which Rule Is Followed By The Electric Generator?
An electric generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. The reverse process converts electrical energy into mechanical energy by an electric motor.
What Are Examples Of Electric Motors?
The most common examples of electric motors are found in the following:
- Fans
- Pumps
- Compressors
- Refrigeration units
- Conveyor belts
- Electric toothbrushes
- Washing machines
- Dryers
- Dishwashers
- Blenders
- Food processors
- Cameras
- Printers
- Computers
Conclusion
An electric motor and a generator are two devices that work in opposite ways. An electric motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, while a generator does the reverse by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. There are many differences between the two devices, but they both play an essential role in our modern world.
