- The stator is the stationary part of the alternator, and it houses the windings that produce the alternating current (AC) electricity.
- It consists of a series of coils of wire arranged in slots on a laminated iron core.
Rotor:
- The rotor is the rotating part of the alternator, and it carries the field windings that create the magnetic field necessary to induce the AC current in the stator windings.
- The rotor is made up of a cylindrical iron core with slots to hold the field windings, and it is mounted on a shaft that rotates within the stator.
Field Windings:
- The field windings are coils of wire wound around the rotor, and they are connected to a DC (direct current) power source, typically the battery.
- The DC current flowing through the field windings creates the magnetic field.
Slip Rings and Brushes:
- Slip rings are conductive rings mounted on the rotor shaft, and brushes are stationary conductors that make contact with the slip rings.
- The brushes transfer the DC current from the external power source to the field windings on the rotor.
Diode Rectifier:
- The diode rectifier is a set of diodes that convert the AC current produced by the alternator into DC current, which is what is used by the vehicle's electrical systems.
- The diodes are arranged in a specific configuration to allow current to flow in one direction only, thus converting the alternating current into direct current.
Voltage Regulator:
- The voltage regulator is an electronic device that controls the output voltage of the alternator.
- It does so by regulating the amount of field current flowing through the rotor windings, which in turn affects the strength of the magnetic field and thus the output voltage.
These are the main components of an automotive alternator. There are also a number of additional parts, such as bearings, a cooling fan, and a drive belt, which help to keep the alternator functioning properly.
