How to Pick an Alternator Based on Your Application Needs

You know you need an alternator to produce electricity. But the question is, how do you choose among the types of alternator products?

At General Power, we have various types of generator alternator products depending on the alternator applications. These include single-bearing alternators, double-bearing alternators and marine alternators.

Here's how to choose the right one based on your needs.

Types of alternators based on application

Single-Bearing Alternators

In a single-bearing alternator, a single bearing supports the alternator at the non-drive end. It has a single bearing on the main, non-drive shaft, which holds the exciter rotor and main rotor. The drive end is supported by the engine flywheel.

Single- bearing alternators cannot use flexible coupling, and they are also smaller in size. They can, however, be used in applications where there is low vibration or higher-quality foundations.

Some manufacturers will specify the use of a single-bearing alternator, based on a torsional vibration analysis. They can be used for a variety of typical generator applications, including backup.

Double-Bearing Alternators

Double-bearing alternators, because of their size, have two bearings, one at either end of the shaft. Since single-bearing alternators have been introduced (and because they are easier and faster to assemble), double-bearing alternators are typically used for machines that specify the need for them.

Double-bearing alternators can be helpful for applications where there is higher vibration or lower-quality foundations. Some manufacturers will specify the use of a double bearing alternator, based on a torsional vibration analysis.

These alternators can also be used in mobile and marine applications.

Marine and Mining Alternators

Marine alternators have higher power demands to run AC/DC inverters, lights, navigating equipment, radio transceivers, water makers, pumps, winches and other high-amperage devices.

Additionally, marine engines are often installed in enclosed compartments to shelter them from moisture and salt spray. This means that marine alternators must be self-cooling at high loads or have an additional cooling subsystem.

Mining alternators require reliability for efficient and powerful, continuous use. Mining alternators require portability and superior air filtration whether deep underground or at surface level.

If your alternator is not well maintained in these difficult environments, its lifespan will be shortened. However, with our expertise, you can select an alternator can produce at a high level for the duration of your projects.

Other Considerations for Types of Alternator Applications

In any application, there are certain features you'll want to consider when choosing an AC alternator. Among these are:

• Phases: Single-phase alternators produce a single, continuously alternating voltage. Single-phase alternators are found in many applications, most often when the loads being driven are relatively light. The three-phase alternator is by far the most common of all alternators in use today, both in military and civilian applications.
• Frequency: The output frequency of alternator voltage depends upon the speed of rotation of the rotor and the number of poles. The faster the speed, the higher the frequency. The lower the speed, the lower the frequency.

You want to keep everyone who is working with the alternator machinery safe at all times. That starts with choosing the right alternator based on your application needs.

If you have questions about which alternator to choose, contact the General Power team. We're here to help you navigate application of alternator solutions.