What Is the Difference Between Electric Motor and Electric Generator

An electric motor is an electrical machine that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy.

Most electric motors operate through the interaction between the motor's magnetic field and winding currents to generate force. In certain applications, such as in regenerative braking with traction motors, electric motors can be used in reverse as generators to recover energy that might otherwise be lost as heat and friction.

An electric generator operates in the reverse direction, converting mechanical energy into electrical energy.

Electric generator can be divided into various type, open type, silent type, trailer type, portable type and container type, etc.

Electric generator is mainly composed of diesel engine & alternator. Electric generator set is mainly composed of engine, alternator, control module, and common base.

Electric generator :- Electric generator is a type of machine which converts mechanical input (energy) into electrical output (energy). In generators, the reactance to be overcomed is the backward force produced due to interaction between parent magnetic field and magnetic field produced due to the induced current. In this the supply is given to only the field windings.

Electric motor :- Electric motor is a type of machine which converts electrical input (energy) into mechanical output (energy). The reactance to be overcomed in this case is the back emf. In this the supply is given to both field winding and armature winding simultaneously.

Difference between motor and generator are:

M: The Motor converts Electrical energy into Mechanical Energy

G :Generator converts Mechanical energy to Electrical energy.

M:It uses electricity.

G: It generates electricity

M: The Shaft of the motor is driven by the magnetic force developed between armature and field.

G: The Shaft is attached to the rotor and is driven by mechanical force.

M: In a motor the current is to be supplied to the armature windings.

G: In the generator current is produced in the armature windings.

M: Motor follows Fleming’s Left hand rule.

G: Generator follows Fleming’s Right hand rule.

M: Ex: An electric car or bike is an example of electric motor.

G : Ex: Energy in the form of electricity is generated at the power stations.