The AC Generator
 
 
There are two animations available. This one is in 3-D, the other is available as a  2-D diagram showing directions of current flow  

The AC  generator has two complete commutator rings, known as a slip ring commutator. 

It generates current in one direction for half its rotation, and in the other for the second half of its rotation. 
The current changes in size and direction as the coil is rotated. 

Remember that a generator converts kinetic energy into electrical energy plus heat energy.  

Back to Generators Page. 
AC Generator Current Plotting Exercise 
Walter Fendt's Interactive Generator 

Web page design by S.Mack