Question: What is the Bridge Rectifier in an alternator and what does it do?
Answer: Every Auto, Truck, Farm,
Industrial, Marine Alternator has inside it what is called a
Bridge Rectifier. The Bridge Rectifier is the assembly in
every alternator that converts the AC (alternating current)
that alternators make to DC (direct current) for use by the
vehicles battery & electrical system. The Bridge
Rectifier converts AC to DC using diodes which are
semiconductors that are one way gates. Diodes allow current
to flow in only one direction making alternating current into
direct current. One very important note when it comes to high
output alternators and bridge rectifiers. When you upgrade
the output of your alternator you must also upgrade the
diodes in the bridge rectifier to a higher amperage rating.
Example: If you have a 100 amp alternator with a 110 amp
rated bridge rectifier and then you upgrade the alternator to
200 amps but you still have the 110 amp rated bridge
rectifier, it won't last long. We use Heavy Duty Single, Dual
and Triple Internal and External Bridge Rectifiers to
increase the durability and prevent High Output Alternator
failure.
