What is The Generator Frequency?

When you have to buy a generator, you need to know its output frequency. When we talk about the power system, we know that generator frequency (Hz) is an important part of concern. Why is this? Understand the frequency of the generator and the frequency you should look for when purchasing a generator.

What is the frequency?

In 1888, a German physicist named Heinrich Rudolf Hertz discovered electromagnetic waves. Hertz later became the fundamental unit of frequency. What is frequency and why do we measure it? Frequency is the number of repeated occurrences per unit of time. For motors, frequency refers to the number of cycles per second. The standard measurement unit for engine power is revolutions per minute (rpm).

Frequency is an important number because it tells us how much power an engine can output. The conflicting frequencies in the machine can lead to instability and equipment damage, which is the reason for the occurrence of generator Hz.

What frequency (HZ) rating do I need?

Generators operate at 50 or 60 hertz around the world. Most regions of North America, Central America, and South America, as well as parts of Asia, use 60Hz. In parts of Europe, Africa, South America, and Asia, you will find the use of the 50 Hz standard.

The generator will generate electricity through a two pole or four pole system. Whenever these magnetic poles complete a complete rotation, they generate one cycle of alternating current. In a bipolar system, the magnetic poles need to rotate 60 times per second to generate a 60 hertz generator. Your frequency output must match the speed of the main power supply. Because 60 rpm equals 1 Hz, a 60 Hz generator should be used for a 3600 rpm engine.

In a 50 Hz generator, the same rule applies. The magnetic pole does not rotate 60 times per second, but rotates 50 times. The engine must have a speed of 3000 rpm to work with a 50 Hz generator in order to be compatible.

Variable speed generator

Sometimes, the power grid may require different frequencies. In these cases, a single 60 or 50 Hz generator cannot generate the stable power balance required to support the grid.

The variable speed generator set uses advanced control technology to change the engine speed and deliver power to the load at a specific frequency and voltage. This operation balances the load and improves overall performance. These generator sets can also reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency.

With the development of alternative energy systems, these variable speed generator sets are becoming increasingly popular. For example, wind turbines will not be able to provide stable electricity, so variable speed generators will fill these gaps and maintain stability.

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