RECTIFIER

A rectifier changes alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC) and this process is called rectification. There are three main categories of rectifiers classified as half-wave, full-wave, and bridge. Rectifiers play major role in power supplies and as detectors of radio signals.

The half-wave rectifier is made by using one diode which becomes forward-biased diode when positive voltage alternating current flows through it and while the voltage is negative, the diode becomes reverse-biased and the current stops.

The full-wave rectifier is made with two diodes where the positive voltage (half of the cycle) flows through one diode and the negative (half of the cycle) flows through the other. The earthed center tap on the transformer permits the circuit to be accomplished as current can not flow through the other diode.

The bridge rectifier, known as Diode Bridge, is made of four integrated diodes connected adjacent to each other in a square position. The connectivity of two diodes is with their anodes and the other two with their cathodes which structure rectified output terminals whereas the remaining ends are joined to form two input terminals.

Thus, the bridge rectifier is typically packaged as one component with four terminals that contain four diodes. The Transformer rectifiers are used to switch three phase power supply to direct current power supply. Some of these rectifying transformers units are used in difficult environments to meet military criterions. For varying line and load conditions, the regulated output rectifier transformers supply exceptional output voltage regulation.

The major advantage of transformer rectifiers is that they are appropriate for powering 28 V DC busses equipped with emergency back-up batteries. These rectifiers confer the requisite benefits and simplicity of a regular transformer rectifier unit. Transformer rectifiers are useful for commercial transport aircraft, military aircrafts and fighters, helicopters and avionics.