[Vwdiesel] Genset

[Al Stumbaugh]

Sorry folks, an induction motor cannot be
used as a generator or an alternator. You
need a rotating magnetic field on the shaft
to induce voltages in the coils that do
not rotate. Induction motors do not have
this. The magnetic field in the rotor is
induced by the static coils.

There are brushless alternators that use
coils in the stator (part that does not
rotate) and diodes and coils on the rotating
shaft to set up the rotating magnetic field.

Some DC series wound motors can be switched
over to make a DC generator but these units
are very rare. They use brushes and a
commutator to turn the coils on and off
as the shaft rotates to get the desired
rotating magnetic field.

Most alternators on Gensets are pretty much
like the one in your car, only on steroids.
The output frequency is proportional to
the number of coils in the stator and the
RPM of the shaft. Of course the diodes in
your car alternator turn the AC into DC so
your electrical system will work.

As to "V" belts vs. toothed belts, each belt
is rated at a certain horsepower at a certain
speed. A several KW Genset alternator would
likely need a matched set of three or four
large "V" belts.

Sorry for the semi-off topic.

Regards,

Al
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