Power delivered by a generator.

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SUMMARY

The power delivered by a generator is defined as IV, where I represents current and V represents voltage. The discussion clarifies that while a generator does perform work per unit charge and stores energy in both electric and magnetic fields, the magnetic potential does not factor into the power rating. The generator's maximum power output is specified, and the actual power delivered depends solely on the load connected, which only requires voltage and current, disregarding magnetic field strength. Inductance in the wiring is acknowledged but is only relevant during startup and shutdown phases.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrical power formulas (IV)
  • Basic knowledge of generator operation and ratings
  • Familiarity with inductance and its effects in electrical circuits
  • Concept of magnetic fields in relation to electrical energy
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  • Research the principles of electromagnetic induction in generators
  • Study the impact of inductance on AC circuit behavior
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Electrical engineers, students studying electrical engineering, and professionals involved in generator design and analysis will benefit from this discussion.

Mppl
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I know the power delivered by a generator is IV and I'm ok with that. I'm just curious, why doesn't it include a term involving a magnetic potential? I mean when the generator moves a charge it does some work per unit charge (V) because it applies a force storing energy in the electric field... But doesn't it also store energy in the magnetic field?
 
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Not much. A generator is rated as the max power it can produce. If you only have a small load that requires a fraction of the max power then that's all the generator is actually producing. This power is rated in terms of electrical power. If you look at the details of the generator you could determine all the variables such as the strength of the magnetic field, but it is irrelevant if you already have the power labeled. A load connected to the generator only cares about the voltage and current it can get, not about the magnetic fields of the generator.
 
Yeah but the power at steady state is not affected by that. Sure, the wire has inductance, but that only comes into play at startup/shut down.
 

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