Then the levers lower the control rod. This motion raises the machine's speed by increasing the supply of fluid or electric power. The desired speed is set on this governor by adjusting the force that the spring exerts on the small disk. Electronic governors, such as the direct current tach generator and the timed-pulse transducer, regulate machine speed by supplying a certain voltage or pulse signal. Fluid governors may use air or liquids.
Some fluid governors work like small rotating pumps.
As they spin, their pressure regulates the machine speed. On a steam turbine or conventional gasoline engine, the governor regulates the machine's speed by operating a throttle valve. In a jet or diesel engine, the governor controls the fuel valve. David E. Foster, Ph.D., Professor and Director, Engine Research Center, Univ. of Wisconsin, Madison. How to cite this article.