Topic outline

  • AC Circuits - Power Generators

    Credits: 3 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This 40 page, 3 hour course introduces the concepts of AC power generation and the AC power generator. The AC generator is the most important means of producing electrical power. AC generators, generally called alternators, vary greatly in size depending upon the load to which they supply power. For example, the alternators in use at hydroelectric plants, such as Hoover Dam, are tremendous in size, generating thousands of kilowatts at very high voltage levels. Another example is the alternator in a typical automobile, which is very small by comparison. It weighs only a few pounds and produces between 100 and 200 watts of power, usually at a potential of 12 volts.

    Topics:

    Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:
    • Describe the principle of magnetic induction as it applies to ac generators.
    • Describe the differences between the two basic types of ac generators.
    • List the advantages and disadvantages of the two types of ac generators.
    • Describe exciter generators within alternators; discuss construction and purpose.
    • Compare the types of rotors used in ac generators, and the applications of each type to different
    • prime movers.
    • Explain the factors that determine the maximum power output of an ac generator, and the effect
    • of these factors in rating generators.
    • Explain the operation of multiphase ac generators and compare with single-phase.
    • Describe the relationships between the individual output and resultant vectorial sum voltages in
    • multiphase generators.
    • Explain, using diagrams, the different methods of connecting three-phase alternators and
    • transformers.
    • List the factors that determine the frequency and voltage of the alternator output.
    • Explain the terms voltage control and voltage regulation in ac generators, and list the factors that
    • affect each quantity.
    • Describe the purpose and procedure of parallel generator operation.

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.
         NOTE: After the exam is completed, you will need to return to this page, in order to print (download) the certificate of completion.

    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Publication Source: US Dept. of Energy


    Donald Parnell, PE

    • Topic 1