Alternator: Description and Operation
OPERATIONThe Alternator is belt driven from the engine. Field current is supplied from the Integral Alternator Regulator, mounted on 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 current diodes. The Integral Alternator Regulator automatically adjusts the alternator field current to maintain the Alternator output voltage below prescribed limits to correctly charge the Battery.
The Regulator voltage control circuit is turned on when the Ignition Switch is "ON". Voltage is applied to Regulator terminal I through a resistor in parallel with the Alternator Warning Indicator. When the Ignition Switch is "OFF", the control circuit is turned off, and no field current flows to the Alternator.