answersLogoWhite

0


Best Answer

The unit hertz means "cycles per second" and is a measure of the frequency of variation of anything which changes during a set period of time, including electric current and voltage. Saying that a generator of electricity runs at 50 hertz means that its current and voltage changes regularly at a rate of 50 times per second. Saying that a generator of electricity runs at 60 hertz means that its current and voltage changes regularly at a rate of 60 times per second. The Hertz value can be changed on the generator by increasing or decreasing the speed (RPM) of the prime mover. The generator has a feed back unit that monitors the frequency and automatically applies more power to the prime mover if the load increases and the generator RPM starts to slow down. The reverse happens if the load drops off and the generator starts to speed up, the power to the prime mover will be reduced. On a diesel generator it is the fuel flow that is increased and decreased to keep the frequency at a constant value. On a water turbine it is the water flow that is increased and decreased to keep the frequency at a constant value.

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: What does 50 hertz or 60 hertz mean in an electrical generator?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Related questions

220 volts 60 hertz to 220 volts 50 hertz?

Original Answer:If the power was being generated by a generator all that has to be done is slow the RPM of the generator down until the frequency meter reads 50 Hertz. On a hydro site it would be the same scenario by slowing the turbine down.Improved Answer:changing frequency is one of the more difficult things to do. Decreasing the speed of a generator is not a practical answer if the power comes from grid. You can use a variable frequency drive, or a motor generator set (Where the motor is rated for 60HZ, and the Generator is rated at 50 Hertz).For practical purposes, just get rid of the 50 hertz device and buy a new one.


What is the Electrical supply IN THE UK?

Home electrical service in the UK is 230 volts at 50 hertz.


What can happen if you connect a 60 hertz air conditioning unit to a 50 hertz generator?

Probable the air conditioner doesn't work well.


What is a 400 hertz generator mean?

It's a generator that creates 400hz AC signals, instead of 50 or 60hz. 400hz is often used on ships, because the equipment (generators, transformers) can be made much smaller.


Will AC 220-240v 50hz battery charger work in America?

No, the U.S. electrical system is 60 hertz not 50 hertz. The only way you can use it is if the charger will operate at 50 & 60 hertz which is unlikely but possible. It will be listed on the charger if it will operate at a lower hertz.


What is the generated electrical line frequency in Bahrain?

50 Hz as per the info available from their official website


Will Australian electrical appliances work in US?

No, not without a converter. Australia's current is 240 volts at 50 hertz.


What type of current is flowing in electrical lines?

It's electrical current. Measured in amps.


What is the frequency of household electricity?

In North America, it is 60 Hertz, and in Europe it is 50 hertz.


50 hertz is what period of vibration?

50. Hertz is the same as cycles per second.


How long is 1 gigahertz?

A 'Hertz' is a change in electrical state. It is measured over one second. 'Giga' is referring to 10^9 or one billion. A Gigahertz is a frequency change of one billion Hertz in one second. Electrical current that is commonly called 'alternating current' (AC) ranges from 50 to 60 Hertz at 110 to 220 Volts.


What voltage is used in Hong Kong for electrical appliances?

Hong Kong uses the same British Standard BS 1363 (220 Volt, 50 Hertz) electrical system used in the UK.