Electricity supply has become an integral part of daily life. Power outages not only interrupt household and business activities but also cause production lines to stop, resulting in huge economic losses. Moreover, in remote areas, conventional power infrastructure may not be able to cover these areas. Therefore, finding a cost-effective backup power source becomes a priority.

When looking for reliable power sources for commercial and industrial activities, self-exciting alternators serve as a practical option. They can excite the magnetic field without the need for an external power source, making them ideal as a backup or power solution for remote areas.

This article will provide a comprehensive introduction to self-excited alternators. Keep reading to learn more!

 

About Self-Exciting Alternator

The self-excited alternator has the characteristics of high efficiency, reliability, and strong adaptability. Here are its definition, the advantages of self-exciting alternators, and its differences from the separately excited alternators.

1. What is a Self-Exciting Alternator?

The self-exciting alternator is an alternator that generates its own magnetic field (excitation) without the need for an external power source. The excitation current is usually generated when it begins to rotate.

When the alternator is started, a small amount of residual magnetism in the rotor helps to create a magnetic field. As the rotor spins, a current is induced in the stator coil, which is then fed back into the stator to strengthen the magnetic field. This process continues to repeat until the alternator outputs stable electricity.

2. Advantages of Self-Exciting Alternators

l Independent Power Supply: The self-exciting alternator does not depend on an external power source to start. Therefore, it can provide power efficiently even in remote areas or during a power cut.

l Simple Operation: The self-exciting alternator is easier to operate than a regular alternator. It has a high degree of automation and is suitable for users of various technical levels.

l High Efficiency: The alternator self exciting tends to be highly efficient because they do not require energy from an external power source to generate the excitation current. This feature allows the alternator to operate with minimal energy loss.

l Stable Voltage: The voltage regulator inside the self-excitation alternator can control the alternator's output and prevent over- or under-voltage conditions, even under varying load conditions.

3. What is the Difference Between a Self-Excited Alternator and a Separately Excited Alternator?

First, the excitation current of a self-exciting alternator is generated internally, whereas a separately excited alternator requires an external power source. As a result, the design of an alternator self exciting will be simpler, reducing the number of parts and overall complexity.

Second, the voltage regulation of a self-exciting alternator is automatic, whereas a separately excited alternator requires external voltage regulation.

 

Application of Self-Excited Alternator

Self-exciting alternators are used widely due to their high efficiency, simple and stable operation, and independence from external energy sources. For example, it can be used for:

1. Emergency Power Supply System

Self-exciting alternators are ideal power sources for emergency situations. When the main power supply is interrupted, they can start and generate power quickly. Its efficient power conversion and stable voltage output ensure the continuous operation of key equipment and facilities.

2. Off-grid Energy System

The unique self-contained feature of the self-exciting alternator eliminates the need for an external power source, making it suitable as an independent energy system. It can be used in off-grid plants, rural electrification projects, and small-scale commercial energy facilities.

3. Transportation Applications

Generator excitation systems are also widely used in the field of transportation. For example, when sailing at sea, self alternators can meet the ship's navigational and daily power needs. For large vehicles, these alternators can power the vehicle's battery and other systems.

 

EvoTec's Self-Exciting Alternators

EvoTec self-exciting alternators are known for safety, reliability, efficiency, and environmental friendliness, making them ideal for emergency power systems, off-grid energy systems, and transportation applications.

Our alternators meet the IEC 60034-1 standard and are certified to ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, CE and China Classification Society. With power ratings from 6.8kW to 10,000kW, voltages from 110V to 15,000V, and protection ratings from IP21 to IP57, they meet the power needs of customers worldwide.

Other features:

l Adopt a short structure design to make the machine more compact.

l Excellent ventilation and heat dissipation performance to extend their service life.

l The low-temperature rise of the motor saves the user's costs.

l The outer varnish makes the machine moisture-proof, mold-proof and fog-proof.

 

FAQs

1. How to extend the lifespan of self-exciting alternators?

Here are some methods to extend the lifespan of self-excited alternators:

l Ensure that the self alternator is operated within the rated power range to avoid overloading.

l Clean the interior of the generator excitation system regularly according to the operating environment.

l Avoid starting and stopping the generator frequently.

l Ensure that the generator is installed in a well-ventilated, dry, and temperature-appropriate environment.

2. Can self-exciting alternators operate in extreme environments?

Self-exciting alternators do have the ability to operate in a range of extreme environments but require special configurations and considerations. For example, when selecting marine alternators, their IP rating and corrosion resistance need to be considered. In high-altitude, low-temperature, high-temperature, or high-humidity environments, selecting alternators with correspondingly enhanced performance ensures reliability and durability.

 

Conclusion

In summary, self-excited alternators are highly efficient and reliable power generators that are capable of producing stable power without an external power source. They are particularly suitable for use in emergency backup power systems, off-grid energy systems, and transportation applications.

EvoTec’s self-excitation alternators are designed for simplicity and ease of operation and are capable of providing stable power output under varying load conditions. Contact us today to learn more about self-excitation alternators!