Aircraft Electrical Systems Components
All aircraft are fitted with some form of a direct current electrical system (DC) which generates, transmits, distributes, and stores electrical energy. These systems usually operate at 14- or 28-volts. Aircraft electrical systems are an integral component to an aircraft because they provide it with power. Most of these systems consist of the below components:
Alternator/Generator
Supply electric current to the electrical system
Maintain charge in the battery
Produce alternating current (AC) and convert to direct current (DC)
Provides a source of power
Used to start the engine and backup the generator
Master/Battery switch
Controls electrical power to the aircraft
Split into two functions: left switch controls the alternator and the right switch controls the battery
Alternator/Generator switch
Allows the pilot to eliminate the alternator from the electrical system
Used in the event that the alternator goes into failure
Bus bar/Fuses/Circuit breakers
Bus bar – used as a terminal that connects the main system to the equipment; provides a common point for voltage to distribute throughout the electrical system
Fuses –Protect from electrical overload; replaced once they are burnt out
Circuit Breakers –Also protect from electrical overload; Can be manually reset instead of replaced
Voltage regulator
Controls the rate of charge to the battery
Stabilizes alternator/generator electrical output
Ammeter/Loadmeter
Ammeter –Indicates condition of charging system; A negative indicator reflects more current being drawn from the battery, a positive indicator means there’s a regulator malfunction
Loadmeter –Reflects percentage of load that is placed on the generating capacity of electrical accessories and the battery; When all other electrical components are off, it shows the amount of charging current required by the battery
Warning light
Indicates discharge in system
Any movement of current between the battery and alternator will cause the light to power on.
Aerospace Purchasing, owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, is the premier supplier of aviation components. With a constantly expanding inventory, you can be sure Aerospace Purchasing will have everything you need and more. Aerospace Purchasing is known for finding cost-effective solutions for hard-to-find aircraft components. We’re available and ready to help 24/7x365. For a quote, contact our main office by phone: +1-412-212-0606 or by email: sales@aerospacepurchasing.com
Supply electric current to the electrical system
Maintain charge in the battery
Produce alternating current (AC) and convert to direct current (DC)
Provides a source of power
Used to start the engine and backup the generator
Master/Battery switch
Controls electrical power to the aircraft
Split into two functions: left switch controls the alternator and the right switch controls the battery
Alternator/Generator switch
Allows the pilot to eliminate the alternator from the electrical system
Used in the event that the alternator goes into failure
Bus bar/Fuses/Circuit breakers
Bus bar – used as a terminal that connects the main system to the equipment; provides a common point for voltage to distribute throughout the electrical system
Fuses –Protect from electrical overload; replaced once they are burnt out
Circuit Breakers –Also protect from electrical overload; Can be manually reset instead of replaced
Voltage regulator
Controls the rate of charge to the battery
Stabilizes alternator/generator electrical output
Ammeter/Loadmeter
Ammeter –Indicates condition of charging system; A negative indicator reflects more current being drawn from the battery, a positive indicator means there’s a regulator malfunction
Loadmeter –Reflects percentage of load that is placed on the generating capacity of electrical accessories and the battery; When all other electrical components are off, it shows the amount of charging current required by the battery
Warning light
Indicates discharge in system
Any movement of current between the battery and alternator will cause the light to power on.
Aerospace Purchasing, owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, is the premier supplier of aviation components. With a constantly expanding inventory, you can be sure Aerospace Purchasing will have everything you need and more. Aerospace Purchasing is known for finding cost-effective solutions for hard-to-find aircraft components. We’re available and ready to help 24/7x365. For a quote, contact our main office by phone: +1-412-212-0606 or by email: sales@aerospacepurchasing.com
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