Alternator: Description and Operation

PURPOSE
The Integral Alternator Regulator (IAR) generates power to keep the battery fully charged and to operate the vehicle's electrical system.

OPERATION
The IAR is operated by current flow through the rotor winding controlled by a built-in regulator.

Output is variable and depends on speed at which the alternator rotor spins, as well as the amount of current passing through the rotor winding.

The stator generates alternating current, which is passed through a series of rectifier diodes and converted to direct current.