Alternator: Description and Operation

OPERATION
The alternator is belt-driven by the engine. Field current is supplied from the Integral Alternator Regulator (IAR), mounted on the rear of the alternator, to the rotating field of the alternator, through two brushes and two slip rings.

The alternator produces power in the form of alternating current. The alternating current is rectified to direct current by a series of diodes. The alternator regulator automatically adjusts the Alternator field current to maintain the alternator output voltage within prescribed limits to correctly charge the battery. The alternator is self-current limiting.