The voltage regulator limits the maximum voltage in the electrical system. In the compressed air system the pressure regulator limits the maximum pressure. Voltage (electrical pressure) drops as power is drawn from the system, and then the voltage regulator causes the alternator to make more current.
What determines the output of an alternator?
Alternator Output Supply and Demand In essence, while maximum alternator output is dependent on the rotational speed of the input shaft, the actual output is load-dependent. That basically means that an alternator will never generate more current than is called for by the momentary demands of the electrical system.
How is an alternator controlled?
These systems are controlled by the vehicle Engine Control Unit (ECU). As the vehicle demands more load the ECU sends a signal to the alternator requesting it to start charging. The alternator has to cope with varying electrical loads and adjust its charge rate accordingly.
How is the output of a DC alternator regulated by the voltage regulator?
When the alternator output reaches the specific zener voltage, the diode controls a transistor in the circuit, which in turn controls the alternator field current.
Why is my voltage regulator getting hot?
The greater the difference between input and output voltage or the greater the current, the more heat will be dissipated by the regulator. This means linear power regulators are not very efficient at regulating voltage, since so much energy is wasted as heat!
How hot should a regulator rectifier get?
Registered. Too hot to touch is not really a good temperature reading. That is probably around 140 degrees F or 60 C. Of course, that is also too hot for most electronic components which are normally rated to a max of 50 deg C.
How hot can a 7805 get?
Also, the device has maximum junction temperature of 125°C, so you really should either get some reasonably large heatsink, or use a switching converter.
How hot does a voltage regulator get?
120c (die temperature) is fairly common and some are rated 150c. typically, if the case is too hot for your fingers to hold onto it, it is too hot.
Why does IC get hot?
CAUSE: Most commonly this is the result of reversing the power connections to the integrated circuit. Some integrated circuits will become warm, but not hot, in normal operation. The 7806 voltage regulator, for example, can become warm to the touch but should never be hot enough to cause discomfort.
What are switching regulators?
Basic role. A switching regulator (DC-DC converter) is a regulator (stabilized power supply). In an electronic or other device, a switching regulator takes the role of converting the voltage from a battery or other power source to the voltages required by subsequent systems.
