Alternators and dynamos

Question 1

What are the different types of generators?

Answer 1

• Alternator
• Dynamo

Question 2

What is the main differences between an alternator and a dynamo?

Answer 2

• Dynamos: uses split ring commutator
• Dynamos: produce direct current
• Alternator: uses slip rings and brushes
• Alternator: produces alternating current

Question 3

How do alternators work?

Answer 3

• A coil is spun inside of a uniform magnetic field
• Slip rings and brushes provide a continuous connection between the wire and the rest of the circuit however, they don’t swap the connections every half turn
• This means that alternators produce alternating current, as the direction the coil spins swaps every half-turn

Question 4

How do dynamos work?

Answer 4

• A coil is spun inside of a uniform magnetic field
• Slip ring commutator swaps the connections every half-turn, meaning that the direction the wire spins stays the same
• This eans that dynamos produce direct current, as the direction the coil spins stays the same