What are alternator brushes and what are they for?

What are alternator brushes and what are they for?
What are alternator brushes and what are they for?
Anonim

Generator brushes are an integral part of the system for supplying and discharging electric current. Despite their small size, they are of great importance for the machine. After all, if the brushes do not function, the generator in the car will no longer generate voltage. Accordingly, all electronic mechanisms will not work properly.

generator brushes
generator brushes

Remarkably, alternator brushes are used not only in cars with gasoline and diesel internal combustion engines, but also in electric motors of trolleybuses and hoisting machines. In addition, this element is indispensable when using welding machines and many other tools powered by electrical energy.

At the moment, all generator brushes are made of graphite, regardless of whether they are used on the machine or on the car. Now there are a huge number of models and varieties of these parts. Carbon brushes of the EG 4 model have become widespread. They are no different from their counterparts. However, there is alsosuch generator brushes, which are characterized by their special composition with special impregnation, which prevents the mechanism from failing before the specified time. They are usually used for high speed electric motors. Often, generator brushes of the EG 61 series are installed on these motors. It is also worth noting that not all parts may be suitable for a specific generator. The car starter and all electronic devices will not work if there are foreign brushes under the hood. Therefore, when choosing, always be guided by the recommendations of the manufacturer. By knowing the exact make and model of the device, you can easily select the right part.

generator starter
generator starter

If motorists do not have any special problems with the purchase, then with the installation it is quite the opposite. And in order for the generator brushes to work with maximum benefit, you should carefully monitor the sequence of your work. In general, the replacement process is not very complicated. It consists of the following steps:

  • Dismantling the generator from its mountings.
  • Removing the special plug from the brush holder outlet.
  • Unscrew the screw holding the last part (here it is advisable to use a small screwdriver in order to speed up the replacement process).
  • Removing the brush holder.
  • Installing parts.
  • Assemble parts in reverse order.

Also one of the frequently asked questions is the period of replacement of brushes. To answer this question, you need to look at the part externally and assess its degree of wear. To do this, take into account the distance that the generator brushes protrude fromholder. If this value does not exceed 5 millimeters, then the part must be urgently replaced.

generator in car
generator in car

Based on this, we can conclude that the generator brush, although a primitive part, but without its presence it is no longer possible to make a movement on the car. You can start the car, but in this case, the entire load from the electronic systems will be placed on the battery. And she, as a rule, holds the ignition without brushes for only a few minutes. Therefore, it is advisable to keep several sets of such devices in stock so that you do not have to call a tow truck in the middle of the road.

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