Synchronous generator

A synchronous generator converts mechanical power into alternating-current electrical power, with its rotor turning at a speed fixed by the output frequency and number of poles.

Synchronous speed: The rotational speed at which an alternating-current machine's magnetic field turns, determined by frequency and pole count. It fixes the rotor speed required for a given output frequency.
Alternator: An electrical generator that produces alternating current. A synchronous generator is an alternator whose rotor locks to output frequency.
Steam turbine: A rotary engine that converts steam's thermal energy into mechanical work. Steam turbines commonly drive high-speed synchronous generators in thermal power stations.
Induction generator: An induction machine operated above synchronous speed to deliver electrical power. Unlike a synchronous generator, it requires slip and usually draws magnetizing reactive power.
Electromagnetic induction: The production of electromotive force by a changing magnetic flux through a conductor. Changing flux in the stator windings generates the machine's output voltage.
Three-phase electric power: An electrical system with three alternating voltages or currents offset by 120 electrical degrees. Most large synchronous generators produce three-phase power.
Hydroelectricity: Electrical power generated by converting the energy of flowing or falling water. Hydroelectric plants commonly pair water turbines with low-speed synchronous generators.
Permanent magnet synchronous generator: A synchronous generator whose rotor field is supplied by permanent magnets rather than excitation windings. It replaces rotor field current with permanent magnets, changing losses and control requirements.
Rotor (electrical machine): The rotating part of an electrical machine, carrying windings or permanent magnets that create a magnetic field. Its field rotates through the stator and establishes the output's electrical phase.
Magnetic circuit: A path through magnetic materials and gaps along which magnetic flux is established. The rotor poles and air gap form the flux path linking rotor and stator.

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