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Three-Phase
An electrical power system that uses three alternating currents of the same frequency, with each phase separated by 120 degrees.
Single-Phase
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Contactor
An electrically controlled switching device used to connect or disconnect electrical power circuits.
Kilowatt (kW)
A unit of active electrical power equal to 1,000 watts.
Volt (V)
The unit used to measure electrical potential difference or voltage.
Kilovolt-Ampere (kVA)
A unit of apparent electrical power commonly used to specify generator capacity.
Ampere (A)
The unit used to measure electrical current.
Generator Rated Power
The power output that a generator is designed to deliver under specified operating conditions.
Alternating Current (AC)
An electric current that periodically changes its direction and magnitude.
Direct Current (DC)
An electric current that flows continuously in a single direction.
Alternator
The component of a generator that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.
Ampere-Hour (Ah)
A unit used to indicate the electrical charge capacity of a battery.
Battery Charger
A device used to maintain or recharge the generator's starting battery.
Frequency (Hz)
The number of alternating current cycles occurring per second, measured in hertz.
Governor
A control mechanism that regulates engine speed to maintain a stable generator frequency.
Horsepower (HP)
A unit used to express the mechanical power output of an engine.
Manual Operation
An operating mode in which the generator is started, stopped and controlled manually by the user.
Automatic Operation
An operating mode in which the generator automatically starts and stops according to mains power conditions.
Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR)
A device that automatically regulates the generator output voltage and keeps it within the required range.
Overload
A condition in which the electrical load exceeds the generator's rated capacity.
Continuous Power
The power a generator can continuously provide under constant operating conditions.
Prime Power
The power available from a generator for an unlimited number of operating hours under variable load conditions.
Standby Power
The maximum power available from a generator during a mains power failure for emergency use.
Generator Speed
The rotational speed of the generator engine or alternator rotor, usually expressed in revolutions per minute (RPM).
Portable Generator
A compact and movable generator designed for easy transportation and temporary power requirements.
Installed Load
The total rated power of all electrical equipment installed in a facility.
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
A device that automatically transfers the electrical load from the mains supply to the generator and back when mains power is restored.
Control Panel
The panel used to monitor, control and configure the operating functions of a generator.
Sound Insulation
Insulation used to reduce the amount of noise emitted by a generator during operation.
Operating Altitude
The altitude above sea level at which a generator can operate, subject to specified performance and derating conditions.
Synchronization
The process of matching voltage, frequency and phase angle to allow two or more electrical power sources to operate in parallel.
Cylinder Bore
The internal diameter of an engine cylinder.
Stroke
The distance travelled by the piston between the top and bottom dead centres inside the cylinder.
Engine Displacement
The total volume displaced by the pistons within all cylinders of an engine.
Compression Ratio
The ratio between the cylinder volume when the piston is at bottom dead centre and its volume at top dead centre.
Chassis
The main structural frame on which the engine, alternator and other generator components are mounted.
