The alternator is the heart of the electrical system. It produces and converts power so that your vehicle has electricity. This electricity is sent through the system to power various things such as your power accessories, the vehicle’s lights, and the spark plugs. Your automobile cannot run without an alternator. The alternator also keeps the battery charged so it does not go dead. It is an interesting thing how the alternator works. Let’s talk about this below.
The Serpentine Belt Spins
Your car has a serpentine belt that is also called the accessory belt. The reason why it is called the accessory belt is many of your vehicle’s accessories are attached to it for power. Two of these accessories are the alternator and the water pump. The serpentine belt spins constantly while your engine is running. It stops spinning when you turn off the engine.
The Alternator’s Pulley
The alternator is attached to the serpentine belt with a pulley. When the serpentine belt spins, it turns a part of the alternator called the rotor shaft. The rotor shaft is surrounded by magnets. These magnets also turn when the pulley turns. It is these two parts that generate an electrical current as they turn around the alternator’s coil. This current is continually produced while the vehicle is running.
Converting the Current
The initial current that is produced by the alternator is an alternating current or AC. Your vehicle’s electrical system needs a direct current or DC. In order to convert the current from AC to DC, the alternator channels the current through a part that is called a rectifier. This switches the current from AC to DC so your vehicle’s electrical system can use the power effectively.
The Car Battery
Because the alternator is producing power while your engine is running, there may be excess electricity that isn’t needed at that time. This electricity is routed to the car battery where it stores it. This helps to keep the battery charged so you can start your engine and also allows for certain accessories to operate when the engine is not running, such as the car radio.
If your alternator is going bad, you may start to have problems with your vehicle’s electrical components, this can include your radio, the power windows, the power seats, and the navigation system. You may also notice a difference in how brightly your vehicle’s lights shine. We can replace the alternator if you are having problems. Call us today.
