What fuel does a generator use?

[GriffinDella]

There are two common types of generators driven by internal combustion engines. One is a small portable generator, which is driven by a gasoline engine and therefore uses gasoline. Its power output ranges from a few hundred watts to one or two thousand watts. Medium and large generators, on the other hand, are driven by diesel engines and thus use diesel fuel. Diesel Generator: A diesel engine drives the generator to operate, converting the energy of diesel into electrical energy. Inside the diesel engine cylinder, clean air filtered by the air filter mixes thoroughly with high-pressure atomized diesel injected by the fuel injector. Under the compression of the upward-moving piston, the volume decreases, and the temperature rises rapidly, reaching the ignition point of diesel. The diesel ignites, causing the mixed gas to burn violently, rapidly expanding in volume and pushing the piston downward, which is called the power stroke. Gasoline Generator: A gasoline engine drives the generator to operate, converting the energy of gasoline into electrical energy. Inside the gasoline engine cylinder, the mixed gas burns violently, rapidly expanding in volume and pushing the piston downward to perform work. Whether it's a diesel generator or a gasoline generator, each cylinder performs work in a specific sequence. The thrust acting on the piston is transformed into a force that rotates the crankshaft via the connecting rod, thereby driving the crankshaft to rotate. By installing a brushless synchronous AC generator coaxially with the crankshaft of the power engine, the rotation of the power engine can drive the generator's rotor. Using the principle of electromagnetic induction, the generator outputs an induced electromotive force, and a closed load circuit can generate electric current.

[OJoel]

Hey there, I get this question a lot—people often mix up the generator and the engine. So, in car talk, the 'generator' is usually the alternator, and it doesn't actually burn any fuel. The real fuel-guzzler is your engine—it burns stuff like gasoline or diesel to keep things running. The alternator just hooks up to the engine through a belt, spinning to generate electricity for your battery, lights, and gadgets. If we're talking about what fuel it's burning indirectly, it's whatever powers the engine, so gasoline cars use petrol, diesel cars use diesel. But the alternator itself stays clean—no fuel involved. Just make sure it's well-lubricated with engine oil to prevent wear and tear. Over time, if your car's fuel efficiency drops, it's probably the engine needing attention, not the alternator. Keep an eye on fuel types to optimize performance—unleaded gas is common for most rides.

[VonIsabella]

You know, it's easy to confuse things, but here's the deal. The generator or alternator doesn't burn oil or fuel. Instead, it's driven by your car's engine, which does all the burning. Engines consume fuels like gasoline or petrol in a petrol car, diesel in diesel vehicles. The alternator just converts that motion into electricity, powering your car's systems. Fuel-wise, gas is standard in many cars, but diesels offer better mileage. Remember, the alternator might have parts that need oil lubrication, but it's not consuming fuel. When your engine runs, it guzzles fuel to keep everything humming, so focus on maintaining your fuel system—it affects how efficiently the alternator works. Keep it simple and avoid missteps by understanding these basics.

[DiSamantha]

Alright, let's clear this up fast. Your car's generator—aka alternator—doesn't burn any oil or fuel. It's purely electrical and gets its power from the engine belt. The engine burns fuel, like gasoline or diesel, creating movement. So indirectly, the alternator uses that to generate electricity for lights and charging. Fuel types vary: unleaded petrol for most cars, diesel for heavier ones. No need to worry about the alternator consuming anything—it's efficient and maintenance-free in terms of fuel. Stick to checking your engine's oil changes and fuel levels for smooth operation.