What Are Permanent Magnet Generators?
Permanent magnet generators are devices that convert mechanical movements to electricity using their own magnetic fields. These devices are commonly used in wind turbines, steam turbines, gas turbines, and engines to create electrical power.
The most significant feature of these generators is that they do not require extra current supply. Such apparatus employs the intrinsic magnetism generated by permanent magnets. You can choose neodymium permanent magnets or samarium-cobalt magnets. Ferrite magnets, aluminum-nickel-cobalt magnets, and other strong magnet materials also work. Stanford Magnets is a reliable supplier of permanent magnets of different types and shapes. Customization is also welcome. Send us an inquiry if you are interested.
How Do Permanent Magnet Generators Work?
The main components of permanent magnet generators are stators and rotors.
- The rotor is made from permanent magnets, and it could generate magnetic fields. Magnetic parts are set around the stators as well, so fluxes could compass them.
- The stator is composed of rotating coils. Once receiving the magnetic power, the stator generates electricity consequently.
- In this way, the movement of the rotors is transformed into electric energy. The more stator coils we have, the more electric currents we get.
What Are Induction Generators?
Induction generators are alternating current (AC) electrical generators which utilize extra energy to generate electricity since they do not have their own magnetic field. These generators are applied to a range of fields such as mini hydro power plants, wind turbines, and gas turbines.
How Do Induction Generators Function?
Induction generators operate by making their rotors faster than their stators.
- First, the stator of the induction machine is linked to a current supply and produces magnetic fields. The rotor is pulled and starts running.
- If the rotor runs at the synchronous speed, there would be no slip and no torque consequently. The rotor current would disappear under such conditions.
- If the rotor moves at a higher speed, there would be some negative slip, and the rotor cuts the magnetic field of the stator.
- Thus, a current is generated and the machine works.
Benefits of Permanent Magnet Generators Over Induction Generators
- Free Energy Source
Permanent magnet generators produce electricity using their own magnetism. So, you do not need to pay high electric bills, and a large budget is saved. Besides, these devices do not need any other resources, which are quite environmentally friendly.
- Reliable Power Output
Permanent magnet generators do not need any special operating environments. Hence, they can offer reliable performance compared with wind turbine motors. Additionally, permanent magnet generators do not suffer from energy loss, while induction generators typically lose 20-30% of energy. Additionally, there are no temperature rises in the magnetic machines, so the life of the bearings can be prolonged.
- Low Maintenance Fee
Due to the features mentioned above, you do not need to spend lots of money and time on the maintenance of permanent magnet generators. And they do not have slip rings and brushes, which are supposed to be checked at regular intervals.
- Compatibility
Permanent magnet generators can be employed with turbines and diesel generators.