Surging in Alternators

Alternators provide alternating current.

An alternator is a generator which transforms mechanical energy into an alternating current -- AC -- form of electrical energy. This energy is briefly stored in the alternator before being distributed to parts of a vehicle powered by AC.

Alternator System

The actual alternator under a vehicle's hood is only part of an alternator system, any piece of which can cause problems, including power surges.The alternator system consists of the alternator, the alternator regulator, the ignition switch, batteries, distribution wiring and in the case of multiple batteries, a battery selector switch. Each of the parts may cause the alternator system to charge improperly, surge or not charge at all.

Function

An alternator typically puts out between 13.5 and 14.8 volts of AC. If a surge takes the output from the bottom of this range to the top, or if the surge causes output from the high end of the range to output beyond what the electrical system can handle, damage to the vehicle can result.

Dangerous Surges

When a vehicle is running and the alternator is transforming, storing and releasing energy, it is dangerous to disconnect the alternator from the battery. This can cause large amounts of AC to be discharged at once, destroying the alternator system itself, as well as anything to which it is attached.

References

• AA1 Car: Troubleshooting Engine Stalling Problems
• Merriam-Webster: Definition Alternator
• Rowand: Alternator and Generator Theory
• What Brand Is Best: Why Does My Alternator Voltage, Surge Like Wildfire?
• Ample Power: Troubleshooting the Alternator System
• AA1 Car: Starter and Alternator Troubleshooting

Resources

• Mister Fixit: Alternators - What Are They, How Do They Work and What Breaks?