What are the differences between a motor and a generator?

If you want to know the differences between a motor and a generator, you are in the right place! We analyze how a motor differs from a generator.

But first of all: what is a motor ? What about a generator ? In order to fully understand the difference between the two pieces, we must know what they are and how they work. Let's go there!

What is
a motor?

The engine is the heart of any machine. It is the element that makes the machine and the whole system work. The engine transforms energy, be it electrical, fuel or any other, into mechanical energy.

How does an engine work?

A motor is made up of different current-carrying conductors or loops that rotate continuously creating a magnetic field. The loops are wrapped around the iron core called the armor, which works to make the magnetic field inside them stronger compared to the outside.

The current in the loops reverses its direction, resulting in a rotation constant of the armor and the loops. The continually changing direction of the loops and armor produces mechanical energy.

What is
a generator?

A generator is a rotating machine that transfigures mechanical energy into an electrical form of energy. Electric generators are used due to their minimal power loss, increased safety, and production of electricity.

How does a generator work?

The operation of generators is different compared to motors. Electric generators work to provide electricity. Mechanical energy is used to rotate the loops in the magnetic field that generates the electromotive force.

The generated electromotive force is a sine wave that changes with time. The shaft is attached to the rotor, which rotates continuously in the stationary magnetic field to produce electricity.

What is the difference between a
engine and a generator?

ENGINE

GENERATOR

ray

Electricity

Necessary

Produced

hand

work rule

Fleming's left hand rule

Fleming's right hand rule

factory

Power source

Power straps and electrical supply

Steam turbines, water turbines and internal combustion engine

energy conversion

Conversion

Electrical energy into mechanical energy

mechanical energy into electrical energy

drive shaft

shaft drive

By the magnetic force that develops between the armature and the magnetic field

By mechanical force by its fixation to a rotor

labor force magnet

working principle

The mechanical force exerted on a current-carrying conductor placed in a magnetic field.

electromagnetic conduction

ray

Electric power

in input form

in way out

SUMMARY

The main differences between a motor and a generator are the following:

  1. A motor transforms electrical energy into mechanical energy while the generator transforms mechanical energy into electrical energy.
  2. The motor uses electricity to produce mechanical energy. By contrast, a generator does not use electricity to produce electricity.
  3. The motor shaft is driven by a magnetic force that is established between the armature and the magnetic field. In contrast, the shaft of a generator is driven by a mechanical force that is developed by the continuous rotation of the rotor.
  4. Current is sent to the armature windings of a motor, while current is produced in the armature windings of a generator.
  5. A motor works on the principle of magnetic effect on a current-carrying conductor placed in a magnetic field, while a generator works on the principle of electromagnetic induction.
  6. Electricity is required for running a motor while electricity is generated by running a generator.
  7. The power source in a motor is the electrical beams and the electrical supply. On the contrary, the power sources in a generator are condensing turbines, water turbines, internal ignition engines, etc.
  8. The motors have their application in vehicles, industrial machines, pumps, etc. On the contrary, generators are used in power plants, laboratories, general lighting, battery power, etc.