On wood, an electric generator: the device and the principle of operation

The segment of generators in the form of small electrical substations has recently undergone several major changes. On the one hand, manufacturers have raised the level of basic technical characteristics, and on the other - in the market began to appear fundamentally new combined solutions. A wood-burning power generator is not something revolutionary, but such a combination was previously considered unjustifiable for a variety of reasons. In modern design, these units provide good performance and provide a wide range of functions, although, of course, the specificity of solid fuel energy also imposes some limitations on the operation of machinery.

Principle of operation of equipment

The basis of any power plant is formed by a power filling, which in this case is represented by an internal combustion engine. As a source of energy is a wood fuel, the combustion of which generates electricity. The work process is accompanied by the translation of the torque to the rotary installation. The rotation of the rotor leads to the generation of current, which can be used in different ways, depending on the needs of consumers and the power potential of the station itself, which operates on wood. The power generator, for example, can be equipped with sockets for connecting other equipment or small appliances. Some modifications are combined stove-stations, which, due to electricity, also provide the function of heating. It should be understood that wood generators significantly lose diesel and even gasoline in terms of power, but for domestic needs this choice can be optimal.

How are solid-fuel power generators arranged?

It has already been noted that the central part of generators of this type is the engine. It can be synchronous and asynchronous. From the point of view of the quality of the produced current, the first option is more advantageous - it is these models that allow several autonomous consumers to be serviced. Asynchronous modifications are simpler in the device and cheaper, but in terms of performance they are noticeably inferior to the above-described design. Of course, not the last place is occupied by the combustion chamber with an infrastructure that ensures the conversion of temperature into electricity. In addition, the electric generator operating on wood is supplied with copper conductors and special insulators optimizing the process of energy processing. Of particular interest, from the point of view of the structural device, are multifunctional furnaces, in which the principle of heat transfer to current is realized. Such models allow to heat rooms and prepare food.

What is the Indigirka stove?

It is a bright representative of universal multifunctional generator furnaces intended for domestic use. The standard model allows generating a current with a voltage of the order of 12 volts and with a power potential of 30 watts. At the same time, the total power can reach 60 watts. Of course, against the background of other electric generators, these figures are not impressive, but it is important to take into account that, in parallel with the current generation, the "Indigirka" oven performs the heating function and gives the user the opportunity to cook on the provided burners. As the practice of operating such furnaces shows, they can serve several energy-saving lamps, charge batteries of portable equipment, etc. A full utilization of the furnace resources is possible only 15 minutes after the fire of the wood filling in the combustion chamber.

Pros and cons of the wood-burning power generator

The advantages of such generators include flexibility in operation, versatility, low maintenance costs, compactness and fairly tolerable heating function. As for the shortcomings, first of all they are reduced to low power in the generation of electricity. This means that, for example, as a full-fledged emergency station, even by household standards, this option is not always suitable in all cases. But the unit can be activated by a wide variety of fuels, since this type of equipment works not only on wood. An electric generator with a combustion chamber for solid fuel in most cases receives chips, pellet briquettes, lumber waste, etc.

How to make the best choice?

To begin with, the nature of the device's operation is determined. It is important to determine for what needs the generator is selected. For example, a universal oven with heating and cooking functions will be the best option for servicing the dacha - in this case, as a rule, users manage without even providing power to third-party consumers. And on the contrary, if a wood-burning stove is chosen for keeping a large house, then it will be necessary to orient oneself to high-power installations provided with a synchronous motor. Such an aggregate will be able to assume part of the function of the main source of energy supply, but for this it is necessary to prepare for significant expenditures of the wood resource.

Conclusion

Electricity-generating furnaces are quite original units, because they combine diverse processes. It would seem that there are special furnaces designed for the use of thermal energy - why add them to the possibility of generating current? This function can just be useful in field conditions or on the same dacha where the only energy source is a compact electric generator on wood. The price of such units is 40-50 thousand rubles. This is a bit for the general segment of electric household generators, but, of course, for the same money you can provide a large house with a quality heating system. The same option can be useful in case of a temporary power outage - another thing is that it will not cover its power to all consumers.