the construction of a DC generator includes several key components, which are described

below:

Armature: The armature is the rotating part of the DC generator and is responsible for producing
the output voltage. It consists of a laminated steel core that is wound with multiple coils of wire.
The armature is typically cylindrical or rectangular in shape and is mounted on a shaft.

Commutator: The commutator is a set of copper segments that are attached to the armature shaft.
It is responsible for converting the AC voltage generated by the armature coils into DC voltage. The
commutator segments are separated by insulating material to prevent electrical short circuits.
Commutator

A commutator works like a rectifier that changes AC voltage to DC voltage within the armature
winding. It is designed with a copper segment, and each copper segment is protected from the
other with the help of mica sheets. It is located on the shaft of the machine.

Brushes: The brushes are stationary carbon or graphite blocks that press against the commutator
segments. They are responsible for delivering the DC voltage produced by the commutator to the
external circuit.

Field poles: The field poles are stationary electromagnets that create the magnetic field in which
the armature rotates. The field poles consist of a coil of wire wound around an iron or steel core.

Field winding: The field winding is the coil of wire that is wound around the field poles. It is
responsible for producing the magnetic field in which the armature rotates. The field winding is
connected to a DC power source and can be adjusted to control the strength of the magnetic field.

Frame: The frame is the structure that supports the components of the DC generator. It is typically
made of cast iron or steel and provides a stable base for the rotating armature and the stationary
field poles.

Bearings: The bearings are used to support the shaft of the armature and allow it to rotate
smoothly. They are typically made of high-strength materials such as bronze or steel and are
lubricated to reduce friction.

In summary, the construction of a DC generator includes several key components, including the
armature, commutator, brushes, field poles, field winding, frame, and bearings. These components
work together to convert mechanical energy into DC electrical energy through the process of
electromagnetic induction.

Working of a DC generator:

When the armature rotates inside the magnetic field, an EMF is induced in the armature coils due
to electromagnetic induction. The magnitude of the EMF depends on the speed of rotation, the
strength of the magnetic field, and the number of turns in the armature coil. As the armature
rotates, the commutator segments change the direction of the current flow in the armature coil,
thus converting the AC voltage into DC voltage. The DC voltage is then delivered to the external
circuit through the brushes.

In summary, a DC generator works by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy through
the process of electromagnetic induction. The rotating armature produces an AC voltage, which is
converted into DC voltage using the commutator, and then delivered to the external circuit
through the brushes.

How Does a DC Generator Work?

According to Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction, we know that when a current-

carrying conductor is placed in a varying magnetic field, an emf is induced in the conductor.
According to Fleming’s right-hand rule, the direction of the induced current changes whenever the
direction of motion of the conductor changes. Let us consider an armature rotating clockwise and a
conductor at the left moving upwards. When the armature completes a half rotation, the direction
of the motion of the conductor will be reversed downward. Hence, the direction of the current in
every armature will be alternating. But with a split ring commutator, connections of the armature
conductors get reversed when a current reversal occurs. Therefore, we get a unidirectional current
at the terminals.

A DC generator consists of two main parts: the stationary field and the rotating
armature. The field is typically made up of several field poles that are arranged in a circular pattern
around the armature. The armature is mounted on a shaft that is rotated by an external power
source, such as a steam turbine or an internal combustion engine.

As the armature rotates, it cuts through the magnetic field created by the field poles, which
induces an EMF in the armature coils. The direction of the induced EMF depends on the direction
of the magnetic field and the direction of rotation of the armature. The magnitude of the induced
EMF is proportional to the strength of the magnetic field, the number of turns in the armature coil,
and the speed of rotation.

The AC voltage induced in the armature coil is carried by the armature winding to the commutator,
which is a set of copper segments insulated from each other. The commutator is mounted on the
shaft of the armature and rotates with it. The brushes, which are made of carbon or graphite, make
contact with the commutator segments and allow the DC voltage to be transferred to the external
circuit.
The commutator serves to convert the AC voltage generated by the armature coils into DC voltage.
As the commutator rotates, it changes the connections between the armature coils and the
external circuit. This causes the direction of the current flow in the armature coil to be reversed
twice per revolution of the armature, which effectively converts the AC voltage into a pulsating DC
voltage.

The strength of the magnetic field in the generator can be controlled by adjusting the field current,
which flows through the field winding. The field winding is typically connected to a separate DC
power source, such as a battery, which allows the operator to control the output voltage of the
generator.

In summary, the working of a DC generator is based on the principle of electromagnetic induction.

As the armature rotates, it cuts through the magnetic field created by the field poles, which
induces an EMF in the armature coils. The commutator and brushes convert the AC voltage into DC
voltage and transfer it to the external circuit. The output voltage of the generator can be
controlled by adjusting the strength of the magnetic field.

[01:04, 19/03/2023] there are several types of DC generators, which differ in

their construction, operating characteristics, and applications. The main types of DC generators are:

Separately excited DC generator: This type of generator has a separate power source for the field
winding, which allows for independent control of the field current and output voltage.

Self-excited DC generator: In this type of generator, the field winding is connected in series,
parallel, or compound with the armature winding, creating a magnetic field that generates an
output voltage.

Shunt DC generator: In this type of generator, the field winding is connected in parallel with the
armature winding, allowing for a constant terminal voltage over a wide range of loads.

Series DC generator: In this type of generator, the field winding is connected in series with the
armature winding, resulting in a high output voltage at low speeds and a low output voltage at
high speeds.
Compound DC generator: This type of generator has both a shunt and a series field winding,
allowing for a combination of the characteristics of both types.

Permanent magnet DC generator: In this type of generator, the magnetic field is produced by a
permanent magnet instead of a field winding.

Each type of DC generator has its advantages and disadvantages, and is suitable for specific
applications depending on the required output voltage, load characteristics, and operating
conditions.

[01:06, 19/03/2023] Md. Humayun Kobir: DC generators can be broadly classified into three types
based on their excitation, which refers to the method of creating the magnetic field in the
generator:

Separately Excited DC Generator: In this type of generator, the field winding is connected to an
external DC power source. The current flowing through the field winding produces a magnetic
field, which induces an EMF in the armature winding. The output voltage of the generator can be
varied by adjusting the current flowing through the field winding.

Self-Excited DC Generator: In this type of generator, the magnetic field is created by the current
generated in the armature winding itself. Self-excited generators can be further classified into four
types based on the connection between the field and armature windings:

Series-wound DC generator: The field winding is connected in series with the armature winding.

Shunt-wound DC generator: The field winding is connected in parallel with the armature winding.

Compound-wound DC generator: The generator has both series and shunt field windings.

Permanent Magnet DC generator: The magnetic field is created by a permanent

magnet instead of a field winding……………………… DC generator has
advantages
In many fields, we need a DC generator especially for the following reasons:
 • It’s built and designed plainly.
• It is suitable for operating large motors and large electrical devices that require
direct control.
• It reduces the fluctuations described by smoothing the output voltage through a
regular arrangement of coils around the armature for some stable state applications.
DC generator can generate some disadvantages as well
Like other machines, DC generators have some disadvantages, such as:

• DC generators can’t be applied to a transformer.

• DC generators have low efficiency because there are copper losses, eddy current
losses, hysteresis losses, and mechanical losses.
• A voltage drop over long distances would occur.
This was all about DC generators . From what you read above, we can say that the main
advantages of DC generators include simple design, simple parallel operation, and fewer
problems of system stability. You also read about different types of DC generators and their
working principle. However, you might need to know more about their design and some other
information. So, you can leave your questions in the comment by signing up at Linquip (in the
parts of dc generator article) and get your answers.

………….Working Principle of Three-Phase Transformer :

The basic working principle of a three-phase transformer is the same as a single-phase transformer
i.e., on mutual induction. The alternating supply is given to the primary windings and it induces an
emf in the secondary winding. The amount of induced emf depends upon the number of secondary
turns (either can be a step-up or a step-down transformer).

Advantages of Three-Phase Transformer :

Advantages of a three-phase transformer over three single-phase

transformers are,
• A three-phase transformer has considerably less weight.

• Three-phase transformer occupies less floor area.

• Three-phase transformer costs 15% less than three single-phase transformers of equal
ratings.

• Only one unit (3-phase transformer) is to be handled.

• The busbars, switchgear, and protection equipment for a single unit transformer are less
which makes the unit more economical.

Disadvantages of Three-Phase Transformer :

In a three-phase transformer, the three windings of three phases form one unit. This makes the
whole transformer shut down in case of any fault in any one of the phases and it can be replaced
or repaired. But, in the case of three single-phase transformers, the faulty phase transformer gets
isolated and the system can run on open-delta with reduced efficiency. hile three-phase
transformers offer several advantages, they also have a few disadvantages, such as:

1. Higher initial cost: Three-phase transformers are generally more expensive than single-
phase transformers, especially for higher power ratings.

2. Complex installation: Installing a three-phase transformer requires specialized knowledge

and skills, which can make the installation process more complex and time-consuming.

3. Difficulty in repair and maintenance: Repairing and maintaining a three-phase transformer

can be more challenging than a single-phase transformer due to its larger size and
complexity.

4. Limited availability: Three-phase transformers may not be as widely available as single-

phase transformers in some regions, which can make them harder to source and procure.

5. Difficulty in transportation: Three-phase transformers are larger and heavier than single-
phase transformers, making them more difficult to transport and handle. This can be a
significant challenge when installing or relocating the transformer.

Regenerate response
 A three-phase
transformer is a type of electrical transformer that is used to transfer electrical power between
three-phase AC power systems. It consists of three separate single-phase transformers that are
connected together to form a three-phase transformer. The three single-phase transformers share a
common core and are wound around it to form three separate legs.

Construction: The construction of a three-phase transformer is similar to that of a single-phase

transformer, with the main difference being that it has three separate windings. The three windings
are connected in either delta or wye configuration depending on the application. The windings are
usually wound around a common magnetic core made of laminated sheets of steel to reduce
magnetic losses due to eddy currents.

Working principle: A three-phase transformer works by transferring electrical power between

three-phase AC power systems. The input voltage on the primary winding of the transformer is a
three-phase AC voltage, which is transformed into a lower or higher voltage three-phase output on
the secondary winding.

When three-phase AC power is applied to the primary winding of the transformer, it creates a
magnetic field that flows through the magnetic core and induces a voltage in the secondary
windings. The amount of voltage induced in the secondary windings is determined by the turns
ratio of the transformer.

The turns ratio is the ratio of the number of turns in the secondary winding to the number of turns
in the primary winding. For example, if the turns ratio is 1:2, the output voltage will be half the
input voltage. The turns ratio can be adjusted by changing the number of turns in the secondary
winding.

The voltage on the secondary winding is in phase with the voltage on the primary winding, and the
phase angle is determined by the connection configuration of the transformer windings. In a delta
connection, the voltage on each winding is in phase with the voltage on the other winding. In a
wye connection, the voltage on each winding is phase-shifted by 30 degrees relative to the other
windings.

In summary, a three-phase transformer is a type of electrical transformer that transfers electrical

power between three-phase AC power systems. It consists of three separate single-phase
transformers that are connected together to form a three-phase transformer, and it works by
creating a magnetic field that induces a voltage in the secondary windings. The voltage on the
secondary winding is in phase with the voltage on the primary winding, and the turns ratio
determines the output voltage.

What is Autotransformer : Working Principle, Construction & Applications

April 8, 2020 By Wat Electrical

Autotransformer is a single winding transformer that works on the principle of Faraday’s Law of
electromagnetic induction. Mostly used in low voltage range, for industrial, commercial and
laboratory purposes. Also known as variac, dimmer stat, etc. autotransformer can be single and
three-phase. Due to single winding, autotransformers have fewer losses, more efficient and robust.
By taking tapping on the secondary side, a wide range of voltage can be obtained. In some
applications, they are also connected to converters for rectifying the output AC voltage.

What is Autotransformer?

The principle of the autotransformer is the same as two winding transformers. It works on the
principle of Faraday’s Law of electromagnetic Induction, according to which whenever there is a
relative change in magnetic field and conductors, an emf is induced in the conductors. Consider a
two winding transformer shown below

Transformer

When an alternating voltage is applied to the primary winding, it induces an emf in the primary
winding due to the alternating nature of the magnetic field created due to AC supply and static
conductors. According to Faraday’s Law of electromagnetic induction, there must be relative
displacement between field and conductors, and in this case, the field is alternating and
conductors are constant. Because of which an emf is induced in the primary winding of the
transformer.

Induced emf in the primary winding creates an alternating flux in the primary winding. Flux links
the secondary winding of the transformer by passing through the core of the transformer. This is
called mutual induction. An emf is induced in the secondary winding. And based on the number of
turns on secondary winding, the magnitude secondary induced emf is calculated.

Autotransformer Working Principle

Now consider the autotransformer circuit diagram shown below. As compared to two winding
transformers as shown in Figure 1, Autotransformer has single winding. When an alternating
supply is given to the primary circuit, because of Faraday’s Law of electromagnetic Induction, an
emf is induced in the primary part. Since the magnetic field is alternating in nature, and conductors
are stationary.

Autotransformer
The induced emf in primary produces a flux, which is called as primary winding flux. This flux links
the secondary winding and induces an emf on secondary winding due to mutual induction. Hence
emf is transferred in the secondary winding. Based on a number of turns on the secondary side, the
magnitude of induced emf is determined.

Autotransformer Working

The emf equation of induced emf is given as

E=4.44∅Nf

This can be generalized for both primary winding emf and secondary winding emf. If we take ratio
we get as

E1/E2 =N1/N2 =k

It could be seen that the magnitude of induced emf is directly proportional to a number of turns. If
a number of turns are greater on the secondary side, it is called a step-up autotransformer. If
several turns are less, it is called a step-down autotransformer. It is also observed that, in two
winding transformers, flux links the secondary winding through the core of the transformer. There
is no electrical link between primary and secondary. For that reason, the transformer is called as
electrically isolated but magnetically coupled device. But for an autotransformer, there is electrical
isolation. There is only one winding. For this reason, autotransformer is called as electrically and
magnetically coupled device.

The nature emf induced as shown in above is statically induced emf. If the source is alternating
and conductors are constant, in that case, nature induced emf is statically induced emf. If
conductors are rotating and the magnetic field is constant in that case emf induced is dynamically
induced emf. In the transformer and autotransformer, induced emf is statically induced emf. In the
case of DC generators, induced emf is dynamically induced emf. For statically induced emf, the
direction of currents is given by Lenz’s Law. In the case of dynamically emf, it is given by Fleming’s
Right Hand Rule. Hence in autotransformer, the direction of induced emf is given by Lenz’s Law.

Also in two winding transformers, energy from primary to secondary is induced through induction,
but whereas in autotransformer, energy is transferred through both induction and conduction. It is
to be noted that, for induction of emf on the primary side, as per Faraday’s Law of Electromagnetic
induction, there must be relative change between the magnetic field and set of conductors. For this
reason, we get AC voltage on the primary side, which is alternating in nature. If we give, DC, then
autotransformer or two winding transformers will not operate, because of the constant nature of
supply. Hence we say that the transformer does not operate in DC. In fact due to low resistance of
primary winding, when DC supply is given, due to large currents, the winding will burn.

Properties of Autotransformer

The properties are

 • Auto Transformer is electrically and magnetically coupled device

• In Autotransformer, power is constant

• In autotransformer, overall flux is constant

• In autotransformer, frequency is constant

• Voltage and current vary based on a number of turns.

• Autotransformer is also called a phase-shifting device

• The losses are less in autotransformer as compared to two winding transformer due to
single winding

• The efficiency of the autotransformer is more as compared to two winding transformers

• Both iron and copper losses are less an autotransformer.

Auto Transformer Construction

A transformer basically consists of two parts

• Conductors

• Core

The conductors in the autotransformer are made up of copper. They are of low resistance. The
copper conductors are insulated with each other. The material used for insulation is impregnated
paper, mica, etc. The insulation also helps in reducing eddy current losses. The winding is wound
around the core. For a single winding transformer, the requirement of copper is less as compared
to two winding transformers.

auto-transformer-construction

To transfer flux from primary to the secondary, core is used. The core is made up of magnetic
material like silicon steel, CRGO steel, etc. CRGO steel is the most efficient material for core, as it
has the least hysteresis losses. The role core is to transfer flux from one part of winding to other
parts.
Other important parts as shown in figure 3 are bearings, brushes, terminal boards, etc. The parts
shown are used for dimmer stat basically used for laboratory purposes.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Autotransformer

The advantages are

• Losses in Autotransformer are less

• The efficiency of the autotransformer is more

• Copper Requirement is less

• The core requirement is less

The disadvantages are

• Autotransformers cannot be used for high voltages. Since any discontinuity in the primary
winding would result in complete primary voltage on the secondary side, therefore it
cannot be used for high voltages

• The insulation requirement is more. Since autotransformer is both electrically and

magnetically coupled, the requirement of insulation is more.

• Because of common winding, a neutral connection is difficult.

Applications of Autotransformers

The following are the applications of autotransformers.

• Autotransformers are used for starting induction motors

• Auto Transformers are used for voltage regulation

• Autotransformers are used for laboratory purposes.

• Autotransformers are used in many industrial applications like paper mills, factories, etc.