rectifieras

Rectifieras are electrical devices that convert alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC). The conversion is achieved by exploiting the unidirectional conduction of diodes or other semiconductor switches, allowing current to flow primarily in one direction while blocking reverse flow. In its simplest form, a rectifiera uses diodes arranged to pass only the positive half-cycles (half-wave) or both halves (full-wave) of the AC waveform. More complex rectifieras use controlled devices such as silicon-controlled rectifiers (SCRs) or other thyristors, enabling regulation of the output DC voltage and current.

A rectifiera is typically rated by maximum forward current and peak inverse voltage. Real-world implementations include smoothing elements, usually a capacitor and sometimes an inductor, to reduce output ripple and produce smoother DC. The performance is described by parameters such as ripple factor, efficiency, and input power factor. Thermal management is important because conduction losses generate heat.

Common topologies include half-wave rectifiers, bridge (full-wave) rectifiers, and controlled rectifier configurations. In AC-DC power supplies, rectifieras are often followed by regulators to obtain a stable output. Applications include power supplies for electronic devices, battery chargers, welding equipment, and DC traction or HVDC links.

Historically, rectification began with vacuum-tube diodes and copper oxide devices, advancing with silicon diodes and thyristors that improved efficiency and control. In some languages, rectifieras is the feminine plural form of rectificadora, referring to rectifying devices or machines that perform rectification.