Difference Between Generator and Motor

Generator and Motor are two different devices with
Different applications. A generator is a wider term used to define a machine that produces electricity.
We will be focusing on the function of a particular element of a
Power generator called the alternator.

GENERATOR

Its the alternator;
Which does the work of producing electricity’s On the other it’s
A motor is a device which is used for pumping water.

However,

A motor can be used for many other uses and applications.

Just for sake of taking note,
Let’s be clear once again that the term “generator” is wider and
For the context of the current article, it is the functioning of an alternator,
That we are referring to when we use the term “Generator”.

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Also, to be noted before we go on to understand the difference between a generator and
A motor is the fact that motors and generators are available in both AC/DC variants. We would be keeping this fact in mind while continuing with the article.

Table of Contents

Construction:

The fundamental basis of construction for both a generator and
Motor is Faraday’s law of Induction.

( Faraday’s Law of Induction:
The induced electromotive force in any closed-circuit is
Equal to the negative of the time rate of change of the magnetic flux enclosed by the circuit )

Generators and motor both have current carrying loops,
Which are rotated in a magnetic field.

The loops are wrapped around an armature.

An Armature is made up of iron core hence here the magnetic field becomes pretty strong.

The direction of the current in the loops is then reversed resulting in movement.

This motion creates,

What is called EMF or electromotive force. Hence, converting one form of energy into another. In this case mechanical energy to electrical and vice-versa.

Let us now study the differences between a generator and a motor.

GENERATOR	MOTOR
Mechanical energy is utilized to cause motion in the loops.	Electrical energy is utilized to cause the motion in loops.
EMF generated is sine wave varying with time.	Induction is used in this case.
The direction of the current produced is governed by fleming’s right-hand rule*	The direction of the current produced is governed by Fleming’s left-hand rule
A shaft and rotor mechanism is used which is driven by mechanical power.	Here the mechanical force is generated by the movement of the shaft due to interactions between the field and the armature
Armature winding is the point from where the electric current is emitted	Here the electricity is supplied to the armature winding, which results in the operation of the motor
A generator owing to its operational design needs more maintenance.	A motor requires minimal maintenance.
Used for power generation applications	Used for pumping water or other things as the case may be.

Fleming’s Right-hand Rule:

This rule governs the direction of current in case of a Fleming.

The right hand is held with the thumb,
Index finger and middle finger mutually perpendicular to each other.

The thumb is pointed in the direction of the motion of the conductor relative to the magnetic field.
The first finger is pointed in the direction of the magnetic field. (north to south)
Then the second finger represents the direction of the induced or generated current within the conductor (from the terminal with the lower electric potential to the terminal with higher electric potential, as in a voltage source)

Flemings Left Hand Rule:

The left-hand rule of Fleming is the governing principle for the direction of current in case of a motor.

The Thumb represents the direction of the Thrust on the conductor / Motion of the Conductor
The Forefinger represents the direction of the Magnetic Field
The Centre finger represents the direction of the Current.

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