Generator- An Emergency Power Source

Most of us do not know the importance of electricity until it's not available. Power cuts are not predictable, it could occur at any moment. Electricity plays an important role in all sorts of business. Especially in hospitals power cuts could create lot of problems. So, whenever there is power cut, the generator could prevent the loss. Generator is a machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.

Generally, generators have two main components.

1. Motor: Burns fuel (LPG, petrol or diesel) to supply power.
2. Generator head: Turns the power into electricity. The electricity generated by a generator is measured in terms of voltage and watts.

There are two basic types of generators. They are

- STANDBY GENERATORS: These are used to offset the harmful effects of power failures; they are installed permanently as an emergency power source for your business. They are hard wired into an electric system with special circuitry that detects an outage and then automatically switches over to the standby power supply.

- PORTABLE GENERATORS: These are usually used in places where there is no power from the local power company. These are sufficient for lighting and running appliances and they are less expensive.

Other types of generators, based on the fuel types are gas, LPG, diesel and natural gas generators.

Purchase of generators (buying considerations): After determining the size, there are several things that have to be kept in mind before making out any purchase. Fuel choices, motor speeds and cooling systems should be taken into consideration while making out a purchase. While purchasing, you should know the specific voltage needed for your company, and then you can pick the model that supplies enough wattage. In general, generator employs automatic voltage regulation to prevent voltage spikes from damage, has a displaced phase excitation to maximize starting capability and provide more surge power. Like any motor, a generator motor creates quite a bit of heat and needs a cooling system to prevent overheating. It can be either air-cooled or liquid-cooled. The major difference is that air-cooled systems are louder and but not effective. Liquid- cooled systems are quiet, more dependable and are more expensive to purchase and to maintain. While choosing, look for the one that comes with a brand name motor, because it will be much easier to find the parts and service for a well-established brand.

Maintenance: Generators should also be maintained like other equipments. Large standby types will automatically start each week and power up to make sure whether everything is functioning properly. Smaller generators require manual intervention like replacing the oil and spark plug at regular intervals ensures a proper functioning.

Uses: Generators are used for a variety of purposes, issues, emergencies, situations and events. Places that do not have electric service at all may need generators, the most common examples are construction and camping sites. Hospitals especially need top-notch electric power backup systems.