Can a low power factor damage the alternator of generator if yes how?

Answer 1

For any electrical equipment, loading limits are set by the allowed working temperature of the insulation.

Alternators are usually designed to deliver full kW load at 0.85 power factor, at ambient temperature. At lower power factors, or higher ambient temperature, the kw load must be reduced to protect the coils.

Lagging power factor can also damage the excitation field winding. Turboalternator field windings are hard to cool properly and are likely to first reach their allowed working temperature.

Modern electrical equipment have temperature probes imbeded in the coils and no damage will occur if proper protective relaying is in place.

Answer 2

No damage unless, of course, the poor power factor causes the current to be higher than the rated value.

Generally its not a good idea though because its inefficient.

Answer 3

Short answer: Not usually, but it's possible.

Longer answer: Low power factor is either a leading or lagging power factor. If the lead goes too far, there can be an over voltage at the alternator.

www.cumminspower.com/www/literature/technicalpapers/PT-6001-ImpactofPowerFactorLoads.pdf