Correct Terminology
Correct Terminology
(OP)
I was wondering if the terms synchronous generator and alternator are interchangeable. I work in an office where the mechanical engineers perfer to call it an alternator whereas I simply call it a generator (leave out synchronous as we are only working with one type).






RE: Correct Terminology
RE: Correct Terminology
If it is, then calling our synch genny an alternator is correct but not precise and could lead to confusion.
RE: Correct Terminology
Cheers.
Saludos
a.
RE: Correct Terminology
1. Alternator. An alternating-current generator.
2. Generator. A machine that converts mechanical power into electrical power.
(My preference is to use energy instead of power.)
It means that the generator is the more general expression including the alternator.
RE: Correct Terminology
A generator is a DC device.
An alternator is an AC device.