Portable Generator For Sale - Are diesel generator sets AC or DC? What is the difference between AC gen sets and DC gen sets?

Are diesel generator sets AC or DC? What is the difference between AC gen sets and DC gen sets?

I am interested in what are the inherient differences and what are the different sets used for? I do not wish to purchase one or install one yet. As part of a project, I would just like to understand the inate differences between the unit, eg like are there restrictions on what needs AC and what needs DC etc. I'm not a engineer or a phycist, but I would just need to understand what is the difference between them in layman's terms. Some examples of applications would be helpful as well.

Public Comments

if the energy is forced through a resistance and back to the generator it is dc...if the electrons move back and forth it is alternating current
a Generator set can be AC or DC. More commonly AC, because most commercial machines and equipment is AC. Commercial DC gen sets are commonly found electromagnetic applications. Some are used in Traction applications like subways and trains. Some DC motor-generator sets provide the field currents for large commercial power Alternators/ AC generators as in hydro-electric dams. My experience AC generators have less maintenance issues than DC units. The control (switching) of large DC currents is much more demanding than AC and has a whole set of problems that are unique to DC. DC controls devices are typically heavier for the same power than AC AC current switching is easier due to the current wave passing through a zero point every half cycle. The AC voltage/ Power can be more easily manipulated through transformers. There is tons of information on this subject available on the net. Yours: Grumpy
both. ac or dc depends on your needs. do you need a 28 volt 500 amp generator (thats DC) for running Dc motors. Ususally for small purposes its an AC generator putting out say 6000 watts at 120 VAC or 240 VAC at 60 Hz or 50 Hz depending which country you live in or generator came from. Also along with the AC it puts out, it also has an output of 12 volt DC for charging batteries, even its own, for starting itself,like a car. DC generators of any size is for mostly for welding as the last link shows you one and a picture