REUK.CO.UK This is the printer friendly version of the Bridge Rectifier article from the Renewable Energy Website REUK.co.uk. Click here to print this article. Printed at 06:57am 29th March 2024 Bridge RectifierFind out more about bridge rectifiers.For most alternative energy applications, we require a direct current (DC) voltage to be generated - for example to charge a bank of batteries (1). However wind turbines and wave power generators create an alternating current (AC) voltage. This is where the Bridge Rectifier comes in. The AC voltage generated is passed through a circuit of four diodes arranged as shown below and emerges converted into the desired DC output. If the diode is wired in the reverse direction then no current [actually a very tiny current] flows across the diode. However, if the voltage is too high and goes over the diode's maximum reverse voltage (detailed in the specification sheet for any diode), the diode will breakdown and fail. If you would like to make your own bridge rectifier then the 1N4001 diode is perfect for most low voltage circuits where the current is less than 1A. The 1N5401 diode is often used where the maximum current is up to 3A. These diodes are extremely cheap and available everywhere. Click here to buy Schottky diodes (4). Click here for full instructions on Making Your Own Bridge Rectifier from Diodes (5). Web Link References(1) http://www.reuk.co.uk/Interconnecting-Batteries-for-Battery-Bank.htm(2) http://www.reuk.co.uk/40-Amp-Blocking-Diode-1N1190A.htm (3) http://www.reuk.co.uk/Germanium-Diodes.htm (4) http://goo.gl/vo4t4b (5) http://www.reuk.co.uk/Make-A-Bridge-Rectifier-From-Diodes.htm Article from REUK.co.uk: http://www.reuk.co.uk/Bridge-Rectifier.htm Published: 24th September 2014 © REUK 2024 |