Motor vs. Generator

Key Differences

A motor changes electrical energy into mechanical energy, whereas the generator changes mechanical energy into electrical energy.

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The motor uses electricity to produce mechanical energy. Conversely, a generator does not use electricity to produce electricity.

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The shaft of the motor is compelled by a magnetic force that is established between the armature and magnetic field. In contrast, the shaft of a generator is driven by a mechanical force that is developed by continuous rotation of the rotor.

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The current is delivered to the armature windings in a motor, whereas the current is produced in the armature windings of a generator.

Aimie Carlson

May 20, 2020

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A motor follows Fleming’s left-hand rule for its proper functioning. Conversely, a generator follows Fleming’s right-hand rule.

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Electricity is required for the operation of a motor, whereas electricity is generated by the operation of a generator.

Harlon Moss

May 20, 2020

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Motors have their application in vehicles, pulleys, and pumps. Conversely, generators are used in power stations, laboratories, general lighting, and powering of batteries, etc.

Harlon Moss

May 20, 2020

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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.

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The source of energy in a motor is power girds and electrical supply. In contrast, the sources of energy in a generator are condensation turbines, aquatic turbines, and internal ignition engines, etc.

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Comparison Chart

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A machine that works for the generation of electrical energy from mechanical energy is called a motor.

A machine that functions for the production of electrical energy from mechanical energy is called a generator.

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Electricity

Required

Produced

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Rule of Working

Fleming’s left-hand rule

Fleming’s right-hand rule

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Source of Energy

Power girds and electrical supply

Steam turbines, water turbines, and internal combustion engine

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Conversion

Electrical energy into mechanical energy

Mechanical energy into electrical energy

Samantha Walker

May 20, 2020

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Current in Armature Windings

Supplied

Produced

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Shaft Driven

By magnetic force that is developed between the armature and magnetic field

By mechanical force by its attachment to a rotor

Harlon Moss

May 20, 2020

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Signification

EM or M

G

Samantha Walker

May 20, 2020

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Principle of Working

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

Electromagnetic conduction

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Electrical Energy

In input form

In output form

Janet White

May 20, 2020

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Examples

Ceiling fans, cars, electric bikes, etc

A generator is used to create electricity in power stations

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Motor and Generator Definitions

Motor vs. Generator

A motor is a machine that produces mechanical energy, whereas a generator is a machine that produces electrical energy. The primary means of mechanical energy in a motor is electrical energy. On the other hand, the source of electrical energy in a generator is mainly mechanical energy.

A motor consumes electricity for transforming electrical into mechanical energy. On the contrary, a generator does not use electricity for the production of electricity; instead, it uses mechanical energy for electricity production. A motor follows Fleming’s left-hand rule for its working, whereas a generator follows Fleming’s right-hand rule for its working.

A motor comprises a shaft that rotates under the effect of a magnetic force that is developed between armature and field. On the flip side, a generator also consists of a shaft, which is attached to the rotor. The rotor is driven by mechanical force, not the magnetic force.

In the case of a motor, the current is delivered to the armature windings. Conversely, in the case of a generator, the current is not supplied, but it is developed in the armature windings. A motor works on the principle of a magnetic effect on the current-carrying conductor when it is placed in a magnetic field. On the flip side, a generator operates on the principle of electromagnetic conduction.

The primary sources of energy in a motor are power girds and electrical supply. Conversely, the main sources of energy in a generator are steam turbines, water turbines, and internal combustion engines that provide mechanical energy.

What is Motor?

A motor is described as an electro-mechanical machine that transfigures electrical energy into mechanical energy. The device, which produces rotational force, is referred to as a motor. A motor mainly works on the interaction of electrical and magnetic fields.

Types

• AC Motor: The motors in which the source of power is AC mains supply are called AC motors. In AC motors, no commutators or brushes are used. AC motors have stationary armatures, and the magnetic fields are rotating to produce mechanical energy. AC motors have wide applications in large industries because they are not suitable for domestic applications.
• DC Motor: The motors in which the source of power are batteries are called DC motors. In DC motors, commutators and brushes play an essential role in their operation. DC motors have a stationary magnetic field, and armatures are rotating for the production of mechanical energy. DC motors are not appropriate for large industries; instead, they are suitable for domestic applications.

Working

A motor consists of current-carrying conductors or loops that rotate continuously in a magnetic field. The loops are wrapped around the iron core called an armature, which functions to make the magnetic field inside of them stronger as compared to outside. The current is supplied to the motor either by AC or DC source depending on the type of motor.

The current in the loops reverses its direction resulting in a constant rotation of armature and the loops. The continuously changing direction of loops and armature produces mechanical energy.

What is the Generator?

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

Electric generators work as an alternative power source, and also function in protecting the whole electrical merchandise during the power outage. Electric generators have extensive presentations as Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) drive systems, aircraft auxiliary power generation, gust generators, motorized starter generators, and high-speed gas turbine generators.

Types

• AC Generator: The generator, which produces AC electrical power, is called an AC generator. In AC generators, the current continues reversing its direction from time to time. AC generators use the slip rings so that they can have higher efficiency. They are used for small domestic applications.
• DC Generator: The generator, which produces DC electrical power, is called a DC generator. In the DC generator, the current flows in a single direction without any change in direction. DC generators use the split rings so that they can wear out quickly. DC generators power large motors.

Working

The working of generators is different as compared to motors. Electric generators function to provide electricity. Mechanical energy is used to rotate the loops in the magnetic field that generated 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.

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