Generators A generator is considered a machine which produces direct current. All batteries must be charged with direct current. Generators were used in automobiles for charging batteries until approx. Check out our products page for the LeJay Manual , which contains many useful, though involved, plans for doing this. They must have brushes, and complex commutators.
Brushes require maintenance, and commutators can wear out.
For most purposes, alternators are more practical today, although generators do have certain advantages at times. Certain low rpm DC motors can be purchased as surplus and work very well as 12 volt low rpm generators. These are from surplus computer tape drives, and are available on our products page. The generator must run at a constant speed. For this reason, this type of generator is suitable for hydro power installations, but NOT for wind use.