Alternatorit

Alternatorit are electrical machines that convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, producing alternating current (AC) which is typically rectified to direct current (DC) to charge a battery and supply DC electrical systems. In most uses, they are driven by a belt from an internal combustion engine and are favored for their ability to deliver steadily varying output over a wide range of engine speeds.

A typical alternator consists of a rotating field (the rotor) and a stationary armature (the stator). The rotor is energized with a small DC current, creating a rotating magnetic field. The stator windings then generate three-phase AC as the magnetic field rotates. This AC is converted to DC by a diode rectifier bridge and regulated by a voltage regulator to keep the output around a target level, commonly about 13.8 to 14.4 volts in automotive systems. Modern designs often integrate the regulator and use brushless excitation, with cooling features such as built-in fans.

Automotive alternators are designed to replace earlier dynamos and are chosen for their ability to produce significant electrical power across a wide range of engine speeds. They are generally compact, efficient, and capable of charging the battery while the engine runs. Common failure modes include worn bearings, faulty voltage regulators, and degraded diode bridges, as well as issues with brushes in older models.

Beyond vehicles, alternator-type generators are used in stationary power supplies, wind-turbine drives, and other applications requiring reliable DC charging from an AC source.