Abstract
In this paper, the author presents a physical conception and simple non-mathematical analysis of the short-circuit phenomena of alternating-current generators. Formulas are developed for the maximum instantaneous values of the armature and field short-circuit currents delivered by both single and polyphase generators, which are equipped with and without damper windings. A similar analysis covering the rate of decay and the sustained values of the short-circuit currents will be presented in the near future.