When it comes to powering any electrical component, you might probably think of using a battery that puts in all the work. However, in reality, alternators are the machines that keep your machine up and running. But are you aware of what exactly an alternator does and what signs need to be looked after for its effectiveness? Well, here you will get an in-depth review of what an alternator is and how it works including when you can identify that the alternator has worn out.
Working of an Alternator
Since the battery is crucial for starting any car, machinery, or another electrical component, an alternator keeps your machine alive. It powers the electronic components from sitting ideally and supplies direct current power to them. The alternator is mainly responsible for charging the battery while operating the machinery.
The alternators convert mechanical energy into electric energy. When you turn on the engine, a drive belt is powered which is resting on a pulley attached to the alternator. This pulley turns the alternator’s rotor shaft and spins off various magnets attached around the coil. Such spinning magnets generate power current around the coil which is then channelled to the rectifier. After that, the rectifier converts alternating current into direct current power which activates your electrical machine.
Though alternators last a lifetime in your component, there is common wear & tear, overuse, damage, exposure to water, etc., which can put the alternator into bad condition. In such a situation, it is important to consider common signs which indicate the situation of a bad alternator.
Warning Signs of Bad Alternator
Without an alternator, it is not possible to start your electrical machine. However, some common signs of a bad alternator are often mistaken with problems in some other parts of the machine or battery. But in reality, such issues might be due to a bad alternator. Following warning signs explain the indication of a failed alternator.
Overly Bright or Dim Lights
When an alternator starts to fail, it will give inconsistent voltage to other electronic components. It means it will under or over-perform your equipment just like headlights that are too dim or too bright. Moreover, you might experience flickering lights as well.
Dead Battery
Sometimes, a dead battery can be dead because of long term usage or it might be that you left your machine on all night which consumed the entire battery. However, a dead battery can also be an indication of some malfunctioning in the alternator. In such a case, a bad alternator will not charge the battery and it will keep on failing to charge the battery.
Trouble in Starting
Trouble starting the engine directly means that there is something wrong with the alternator because it is not able to charge the battery. So, when you start your machinery, you hear some clicking sound but the machine does not start properly.
The smell of Burning Rubber or Wires
An odour of burning wires or rubbers is also an indication that some parts of your alternators are burning and depleting. The drive belt of the alternator lies under constant tension and friction and is close to the hot engine due to which it can catch fire and create a burning rubber smell.
Conclusion
There come many difficulties while starting your machinery or charging the battery or engine due to a faulty alternator. The above-explained signs are vital to be looked at while facing any such issues in your machinery. For best and quality alternators, contact Canon Genset that manufactures engineer approved alternators providing the best performance.
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